I always wanted to meet an Alchemist, so imagine my curiosity when I encounter one who's journey has an uncanny resemblance to my own. It was a goose-bump moment during a busy network hour on Twitter, when Trevor Lorkings astutely noted our shared connection with Peru and our desire to help others through holistic work. In that moment, I gained a generous sponsor for my art exhibition (which I'd been promoting) and I made a new friend.

The Year of Awakening

For both of us, 1999 was our year of awakening to a higher purpose. Trevor's path lead him to study and teach Tai Chi. We both became Reiki Masters. I also qualified as a therapist of Reflexology.

The seeds of transformation had been planted much earlier as we discovered we both had read The Celestine Prophecies, a story set in Peru. Travel to Peru ignited my passion for writing while for Trevor it was the wilds of Scotland and the west coast of Ireland that compelled him to write poetry like never before.

These transformations lead to new paths. Trevor turned his love of digital design and computer programming into a business and I started a study of singing (vocal freedom) which has deepened all my creative practices. For both of us this was the start of new authentic living.

Interview with the Digital Alchemist:

How did you handle the transition to being self-employed?

Starting out in the digital business at the turn of the century, was a steep learning curve, assisting small to medium sized businesses by aligning their marketing strategies with the possibilities being made available through the emergence of the world wide web.

What excited you most about your business?

I'm passionate about helping others to flourish in a modern digital world. What's not to like about clients who respond with: OMG its sooooo fab thank you ! I absolutely love it! It's perfect!

Tell us about your family businesses:

I am a part of entrepreneurial family. One of our businesses, which started in our front living room in the middle of a recession, grew to turn-over a million pounds in its second year. This experience provided abundant opportunity to learn about the non-technical aspects of business.

Our family provides Printing Personalised Social Stationery, and everything for the artisan and avid home jam maker. My wife Rosemary is the Jam Maker, providing jam-making workshops and demonstrations. She also supplies jam jars and online supplies for home and artisan jam makers.

Trevor's advice for creative people starting in business:  

Steer your thinking to why not, I'll give that a go, let's do it today! Don't get hung up on business, release yourself to get excited about life, the people, the places, the opportunities to widen you path, open your eyes and see that life is your business.

"The one who asks for help with a conscious purpose will receive support. I travel with a warm spirit and bring light and kindness to those who share my path."

The Digital Alchemist.

Trees live for many seasons observing the cycles of life; a connection between heavenly clouds and solid foundations of earth; silent communicators of beauty.

THANK YOU to Trevor Lorkings who has kindly designed and sponsored the promotional stationery for my art exhibition show-casing 'The Sacred Lives Of Trees'.

Take a closer look at the services offered by Trevor Lorkings and his family by visiting:

'The Digital Alchemist' and & Personalised Stationery

‘The Sacred Lives of Trees’ is a collection of paintings reminding us of the importance of earth connection for our well-being. Trees provide a form of spiritual nourishment for us humans. Throughout my exhibition and tour of ‘The Sacred Lives of Tree’s’, I provided a space for people to express this truth.

Add colour inspiration to your home or work space in the form of my vibrant tree paintings. Along with paintings I provide limited edition prints. Take a look in my online gallery. I'm on standby to help you with your selection.