LORES RecommendS

SMALL + INDEPENDENT BUSINESSES WE LOVE

At Lores, we believe in collaboration over competition. Supporting fellow artisans and small businesses not only strengthens the community but also makes it easier for customers to find trustworthy services in a sea of adverts and misinformation online. That’s why we’re starting a new chapter - recommending some of our favourite creators, the ones we’ve worked with personally and whose talents have helped bring earlier Lores projects to life.

Why Collaboration Matters

In today’s world, it’s easy to get lost in the noise. Algorithms and adverts often promote whoever can pay the most, rather than the best. But what happens when you’re looking for a photographer who gets your style, an artist who can see your vision, or a cake maker who can produce cakes that go beyond your expectation for those special events? That’s where genuine, personal recommendations come in.

We’re committed to creating an atmosphere of collaboration with other small, independent makers and creators. It’s about building relationships with businesses we believe in and use ourselves.

Why Genuine Recommendations Matter in the Age of Influencing

In a world filled with influencers, true relationships and authentic recommendations stand out. These collaborations aren’t about pay-per-post partnerships; they’re about finding people and brands that align with your values and can help you tell your story.

At Lores, we understand the importance of working with like-minded creatives. When you’re trusting someone to capture your memories, design your brand, or create your event’s centerpiece, you need to know they’ll deliver. That’s why we’re sharing the small businesses we genuinely recommend, helping you cut through the noise and find quality services that matter.

Stay Tuned for Updates

As we continue to discover new makers and creators, we’ll keep updating this page with fresh recommendations. Check back regularly to see who else makes the list - whether you’re looking for someone to bring your next project to life or simply want to support the wider small business community.

If you have a project in mind or want to connect with any of our recommendations, don’t hesitate to get in touch. We’d love to help you find the right fit!

Weddings

VTL Photography

Real Moments, Naturally Captured

With VTL Photography, Verity Taylor-Littler’s approach is simple - no forced poses, no staged scenes. She’s all about capturing real moments as they happen. You don’t need to love the camera or feel like a model, most people don’t. Verity’s job is to make you feel comfortable, so all you need to do is relax, and she’ll handle the rest.

Whether it’s a wedding or a personal milestone, Verity focuses on natural, authentic photography that shows you just as you are. We’ve worked with her and can confidently recommend her for capturing moments that matter, without the pressure.

Check out her impressive portfolio here.

Below, we’ve included some gorgeous pictures she took at a wedding in the French Alps, the engagement ring and wedding rings were made exclusively by Lores.

For all your special occasions, Maude + Marmalade has you covered. Run by the talented Alice, her motto says it all: "Keeping sugar levels topped up with bespoke wedding + anytime-special cakes." Whether it’s a wedding, birthday, or just because, Alice creates cakes that are as stunning as they are delicious.

At Lores, we love collaborating with creators who bring that same attention to detail, and Alice’s cakes do just that. Every slice is a work of art, perfect for celebrating your biggest milestones.

Check out her vibrant Instagram, and keep her in mind for your next celebration.

Maude + Marmalade

Bespoke Cakes for Life’s best Moments

Creatives

Esme Buxton

Elevated Portrait Photography for Commercial Clients

When you’re looking for a photographer who can deliver visual impact, Esme Buxton is the one to call. Based in Cheltenham and London, Esme specialises in creating elevated, stylised visuals that capture the essence of brands and personalities. From portrait photography to high-end commercial shoots, her eye for detail and creative approach ensure that each image is not only striking but also deeply personal.

We’ve worked with Esme on several Lores projects, and her ability to blend commercial objectives with artistic flair is unmatched. Whether you’re launching a product, updating your branding, or simply need professional portraits, Esme’s work speaks for itself. Plus, with her experience working worldwide, no project is too big or too far away.

When it came to photographing Lores’ Jewellery, Esme nailed it. She really listened to what Lorna envisioned - crafting warm colour palettes and capturing the jewellery, model and surrounding environment in harmony. Esme’s attention to detail turned each piece into a visual story, elevating our brand through clean, bold imagery.

Take a look at a few of the examples below, if you have a keen eye you’ll see her work throughout this whole website.

Silver & Steel Studios

Where Craftsmanship and Community Meet

Silver & Steel Studios is a award-winning unique jewellery hub in the heart of Bristol, founded by jeweller Bethany May Silver. This isn’t just any jewellery studio - it’s a space where creativity, community, and sustainability come together. With a focus on making the jewellery world more accessible, Silver & Steel connects local designers, makers, and jewellery lovers.

Whether you’re looking to shop for ethically made, independent jewellery, join a workshop to learn the craft, or just be part of a growing network of makers, Silver & Steel has created the perfect space for it all. Their gallery promotes beautiful, contemporary design, with regular exhibitions and events that keep the creative spirit alive.

For anyone in the jewellery industry or those who simply appreciate good design, Silver & Steel is a must-visit, here is a link to their website.

Cabin 53, run by Georgia, is more than just a nail salon - it’s a safe, welcoming space where you can unwind, open up, and leave with a fresh set of nails. Georgia knows how overwhelming salons can feel, so she’s created a place where everyone is welcome. It’s not just about the nails (though they are impressively done and fiercely unique); it’s about connecting, being heard, and feeling at home.

At Lores, we love to support businesses that are built on genuine care for their clients, and Cabin 53 is one of those. Georgia literally holds her clients' hands through life’s highs and lows, ensuring you leave feeling as refreshed emotionally as you do physically.

Cabin 53

Nails + A Safe Space, All in One

bevs 

Cider by Baynes

Small Batch, Big Flavour

Cider by Baynes is a family-run cidery based in The Cotswolds, founded in 2020.

What sets them apart? Simplicity, transparency, and a passion for crafting cider that’s fresh, fizzy, and never too sweet. Their latest creation, Reborn, is made with a careful blend of cider apples, a little yeast, and time. Naturally sweetened with apple juice instead of sugar, it’s all about honest flavour with no hidden extras.

At Lores, we admire small businesses that are committed to quality, and Cider by Baynes nails it with their clean + straightforward approach to cider-making. If you’re after something local and made with care, for your next event or establishment - this is the brand to know.

BUISNESS

Totemo Consulting

Empowering Your Business to Reach Its Full Potential

Totemo Consulting specialises in helping small and medium enterprises (SMEs) grow, with over 15 years of experience in strategic business development. Whether you’re looking to scale up, refine your marketing strategy, or manage major changes, Totemo brings expertise across industries. Their proven track record includes launching and managing successful businesses, building award-winning brands, and driving growth for SMEs.

At Lores, we appreciate working with businesses that share our passion for development and creativity. Totemo’s tailored approach ensures that no matter where your business is in its journey, they’re equipped to help you reach your goals.

If you’re ready to take your business to the next level, Totemo Consulting comes highly recommended by us, having worked personally with Lynn on our own brand development. She took the time and care to help us understand more about marketing and brand awareness, making sure to keep in mind the struggles facing small businesses in the UK.