Brand storytelling, when done well, is not a peripheral exercise but the guiding force behind every decision, touchpoint, and gesture. It provides clarity and cohesion, creating a framework where every detail—a product tag or a year-long campaign—feels aligned and intentional. Long Barn is a masterclass in this discipline, embodying the power of a strong, focused brand to inspire creativity, streamline decision-making, and connect with its audience at every level.

Nestled in the Hampshire countryside, Long Barn is not merely a destination but a narrative brought to life—a celebration of nature, heritage, and craftsmanship. Every corner tells a story of authenticity and care, from its terraced café overlooking rolling lavender fields to its curated retail spaces. Over the years, I had the privilege of collaborating with the Long Barn team to refine and expand their brand, ensuring it echoed the values of its surroundings and the aspirations of its audience.

Rooted in Heritage: The Lavender Connection

Long Barn’s identity begins in the soil, with lavender as a literal and metaphorical foundation. This connection shaped the Heritage Lavender Collection, for which I designed visual elements that seamlessly blended tradition and modernity. Typography evoked timeless elegance, material choices reflected eco-conscious craftsmanship, and each detail honoured Long Barn’s ethos: quality, authenticity, and respect for nature.

This same philosophy extended to their own-brand goods—lavender-infused skincare, pantry staples, and home fragrances. Each product was wrapped in thoughtful design, uniting storytelling with utility. Every label, texture, and finish invited customers to engage with Long Barn’s world, creating products and experiences.

The Beauty of Botanicals

A love letter to flora, the private-label botanical range captured the essence of Long Barn’s artistry. Bespoke watercolour illustrations of flowers, herbs, and foliage adorned packaging, each stroke speaking to the care imbued in the products themselves. From skincare to pantry items, this line harmonized traditional craft with contemporary function, offering timeless yet personal beauty.

Celebrating Craft: Made Well, Made Here

The Made Well, Made Here campaign became a manifesto for thoughtful consumption. Local artisans and makers were spotlighted through in-store displays, digital storytelling, and live demonstrations, weaving their narratives into the fabric of Long Barn. Packaging tags detailed the origin stories of products, turning transactions into connections and customers into advocates for a slower, more intentional approach to shopping.

Marking a Milestone: 10 Years of Long Barn

Long Barn’s 10th anniversary offered an opportunity to amplify its connection to the seasons and its community. The Lavender Cloud Installation, an ethereal display of dried lavender suspended above the shop floor, became a visual spectacle and a symbol of the brand’s enduring creativity. Workshops, exclusive product launches, and celebratory events unfolded across the year, reinforcing Long Barn’s role as a hub of craft, connection, and inspiration.

The Spirit of Giving

At a time when consumption often leans frenzied, the Spirit of Giving campaign embraced a quieter ethos. Natural embellishments adorned complimentary gift wrapping, curated guides highlighted sustainable options, and storytelling celebrated the thought behind every product. Proceeds supported local charities, anchoring the campaign in the values of generosity and care that define Long Barn.

Building Relationships: Friends of Long Barn

The Friends of Long Barn loyalty scheme exemplified the brand’s commitment to nurturing lasting connections. Beyond transactional benefits, members gained access to intimate garden tours, maker workshops, and seasonal previews. Every element, from the letterpress membership cards to the bespoke welcome pack, carried the thoughtful attention to detail customers associate with Long Barn.

A Nostalgic Twist: The Old-School Off-License Pop-Up

When Long Barn launched its signature gin, the experience expanded the brand’s playful yet elegant identity. The Old-School Off-License Pop-Up reimagined tradition with contemporary flair. Hand-drawn illustrations adorned bespoke labels, while the space design invited customers to linger, explore, and immerse themselves in the craftsmanship behind the product. It was an experience as evocative as the gin itself.

A Living Brand

From the lavender fields to the terraced café, Long Barn’s identity is inseparable from its environment and community. Over the years, this partnership has been about more than design—it’s been about storytelling in its fullest sense. From growing an Instagram audience by over 80% to designing immersive retail experiences, every project has been rooted in a shared ethos of care, authenticity, and creativity.

Like the lavender that inspired it, Long Barn continues to grow, offering a sanctuary for those seeking beauty, craft, and connection. Its brand story is not just told but lived—through every product, campaign, and interaction—a testament to the power of alignment in creating something truly extraordinary.