I was surprised but also delighted when a client representing two prestigious hotels reached out to me, having seen my 'Tinned Fish' illustration and felt it was the perfect stylistic fit for their luxury afternoon tea menus. The Sanderson and Saint Martins Lane, both stylish venues in London, needed illustrated elements to make their English afternoon tea occasion extra special.

This unexpected opportunity arose from an illustration created using loose watercolour with Procreate details, including lettering on a separate layer. It had been on my portfolio website for four years and listed on "Illustrators for Hire" since last year. That’s where the senior marketing manager discovered my work under the "Food and Drink illustration" niche.

We quickly arranged a Zoom call to discuss the requirements of the brief. She was after four different items for two distinct afternoon tea menus for each hotel. She liked the translucency of the watercolour with the added benefit of detailed elements, which could be added separately. This is quite important as one of the items included a tea pot with a scene from Alice in Wonderland at the Mad Hatter’s tea party, based on the illustrations from the 1860s.

For a project such as this, there is an initial phase where I present several possible routes. Once a direction is approved, that style is applied to the rest of the illustrations. There were photographic references for all the items on the menu, as what’s served to each guest is specific, from the type of jam on the scones to the serving plates.

Last week, I had the pleasure of attending the Sanderson for their Mad Hatter’s afternoon tea. As a food illustrator, I don’t always get the chance to see how my artwork is applied, especially since I work with international clients. This was an extra special treat, they made me feel very welcome and treated me like a VIP. I brought along my photographer, Nat Aubry, who took these amazing photos.

The top of the cake stand was just as I’d illustrated - filled with fluffy pink candy floss inside a teacup that said ‘curiouser and curiouser’. I remember illustrating the sandwiches, which were smoked salmon mousse with dill and mascarpone, and also coronation chicken with mango chutney. Even the pastries were inspired by the Mad Hatter tea party theme which included a dark chocolate tart with salted Chantilly, to represent Tweedle Dum and Tweedle Dee. For the Queen of Hearts, there was a delightful Madagascar vanilla cheesecake with lemon and strawberry gel. And even an edible flower pot to represent the rabbit in the hole.

Take a look at the Sanderson Mad Hatter’s Afternoon Tea menu HERE

This project has been such an inspiring journey, blending whimsical themes with a slightly different brand illustration style for me. The opportunity to see my work come to life in such a magical setting has been an unforgettable experience. To fellow illustrators, I encourage you not to give up hope on older pieces of work finding the clients you desire.

I also highly recommend joining Illustrators for Hire (IFH). I’m currently wrapping up another major project where a client found my art because I am a member. Nate and Salli have worked incredibly hard to create a platform that can open doors to incredible opportunities and help you connect with clients who truly appreciate your unique style.