About Ruth

After taking an introductory digital photography course with the Open University (see useful links) to top up the points needed for my psychology BSc Honours degree, I found I loved photography – an early contributory factor to Ruth Greenfield Cards! Having always loved travel and people, I wanted to capture what I saw. The course covered the basics well, but also encouraged experimentation. And I’m still doing that! I rarely go anywhere without my camera. Photography gave me a new way of connecting to the world around us and an on-going challenge to convey that sense of connection. I enjoy sharing this inspiration to see things in a more imaginative and appreciative way.

In October 2007 my husband and I visited my Plan sponsored child in Guatemala which was a wonderful experience (see useful links). It also enabled me to collect many different and colourful images for the portfolio.

Why cards? After a suggestion that my berries and snow picture would make a nice Christmas card (now card 0130), after my last psychology exam in 2007 I made some, and also gift-packs of cards for family members. It was pleasing to give something original especially as they were enthusiastically received! I had materials left and offered some photo-cards to the new Phyllis Tuckwell Hospice charity shop in Grayshott (see useful links). The manager Gerry was very encouraging and the cards went in a basket by the till. I decided to help the charity raise £1000 through card sales over 2 years, and bought more card-making stock. Yet the cards were really popular and sold so well that more outlets were needed to cover my costs….and the more commercial venture was really born!

I have been thrilled to find local outlets have been really supportive - and there’s a real community spirit. Cards of local views have been very popular but my “arty” cards are still selling well too, now not least also in the Phyllis Tuckwell Hospice reception. (Other stockists listed under "stockists and credits")

Now established as “a business”, I still want to produce cards that are a pleasure:-

• to make: it has to remain fun! Variety in images suits my varied clientele and stops me getting bored! Designs aren’t chosen for maximum profit…but for satisfaction. This gives them a unique quality. And production is local.
• to sell: the Phyllis Tuckwell Hospice benefits from donations and subsidised sales, and the community and other good causes (e.g. St Mary’s School, Frensham) can benefit from re-sale or through a percentage of my takings at events (e.g. the National Trust). I also really enjoy giving customer satisfaction!
• to buy: For individuals or trade - Good quality, exclusive hand-crafted products at reasonable prices…
• to give: Enjoy both the selection (what links can you make?!) and showing you care by giving something original…
• to receive: … “Someone cares enough to choose, buy and give me something special”.

I hope you find pleasure in Ruth Greenfield Cards!

 Ruth

October 2008

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