Bee Festive Blog

Hive highlights ft. Shannon Ullbricht Illistration

Welcome to Hive Highlights, your go-to blog for discovering amazing local South African brands and their unique products! We are excited to introduce you to Shannon Ullbricht. She is a talented self-taught illustration artist from Mpumalanga, South Africa. Shannon's artwork is all about capturing the beauty of life's special moments through hand-painted watercolour illustrations. Her artistry ranges from family and pet portraits to event and wedding illustrations, memory maps, favourite compilations, home portraits, and a new series of prints inspired by her love for South Africa.

In this blog post, we will dive deeper into Shannon's journey, including her transition from a Montessori teacher to a successful full-time illustrator. You'll also learn more about the unique products and services she offers, and her future plans for her brand. Whether you're looking for a special gift for a loved one or a unique piece of art for your home, Shannon's work is sure to capture the essence of life's most cherished moments. So join us as we explore Shannon Ullbricht's incredible talent and inspiring story!

Each week, we will showcase a unique local brand, sharing their story and what sets them apart. We'll also highlight ways in which you can show your support and become a part of their journey. Come along with us on this exciting adventure as we uncover some of the finest local brands in South Africa!

Introducing Shannon Ullbircht, here to discuss her beautiful illustrations:

Tell me a bit about yourself:

My name is Shannon Ullbricht, I’m a self taught illustration artist based in Mpumalanga, South Africa. I work from home and live with my two favourite humans - my husband Wayne and our 5 year old daughter Summer. I used to be a Montessori teacher but decided to give it up when I was expecting my daughter so that I could be at home with her.

I started illustrating as a hobby but after getting quite a bit of interest in my work, I was fortunate enough to turn it into my own business. I’m so grateful that I get to do something I love everyday and have been blessed with an abundance of amazing clients who always give me something exciting to do, all glory and thanks to God. Some things I can’t live without: books, my faith, naps, domestos, dental floss, music, my husbands giant hugs, the beach, Superbalist and Summers smiles. My absolute pet peeve is people who drive slowly.

What inspired you to create this brand?

I was inspired to create this brand mostly because it was something that I really enjoyed doing. I could also see there was a gap in the market for my kind of work as most illustrating is now done digitally and there are much fewer artists who now sketch and hand paint.

Can you tell me about the products you offer and what sets them apart from similar products on the market?

What are your future plans for the brand?

What is your favourite song?

Came here for love by Sigala - you can’t not dance when you hear it!

What do you love most about South Africa?

Is there anything you could say to someone wanting to start their own business?

Be prepared to put ALL your time and effort into your business. You don’t get days off, can’t call in sick and will work nights. If it’s not something you love doing then don’t bother because it won’t be worth the effort and that will show in your work. But if it is something you have a passion for then give it your all. It’s so worth it growing something from scratch and watching it blossom.

Check out the Shannon Ullbricht Illustration collection by clicking on the link below:

Don't forget to follow us on Instagram @beefestive.za  & Facebook @beefestive.za and show your support!