Sudbury mum-of-three, who runs Toodle Pip Designs, short-listed for prestigious small business awards

A mum-of-three is celebrating after being shortlisted for a prestigious award.

Lu Underwood, 37, of Sudbury, has been short-listed as a finalist in the Small Business Awards – East of England.

Lu launched Toodlepip Designs in 2020, producing art, clothing, accessories and homeware, all inspired by hand-painted quotes.

Her items proved such a success that she went on to launch a second arm of her company, Toodlepip Does Design, which creates unique branding for companies.

“I was thrilled to hear I had been short-listed and am really looking forward to the final in March,” said Lu.

“The business has grown mainly through word of mouth and I absolutely love what I do.”

Lu launched her own business after being made redundant from her job as an account director at a marketing firm during the pandemic.

She has also worked in creative agencies in Colchester and London after completing a degree in creative advertising.

Lu began producing a range of items with handpainted words of inspiration, including artwork, clothing, homeware, stationery and calendars.

Her branding work followed a year later, including graphic design, signage and social media content design, illustration and branded workwear and merchandise.

“I like to spread a message of peace, love and positivity through all of my work,” said Lu.

“I wanted to build a Toodlepip community when I first started and the business has grown thanks to my wonderful customers and clients.

“I have also attended markets, held pop-ups and my work is now stocked in shops.

“I’ve completed branding for small businesses and start-ups in fitness and wellbeing, mindset and coaching, property, fashion and clothing.

“I combine this with looking after my three children and I’m proud to be a mum in business.”