McOwen and Banks

A desire to work together in inspirational surrounds has brought a creative husband and wife team to Cornwall.

Becky McOwen and Peter Banks have pooled their talents to form McOwen and Banks, a creative consultancy based in Marazion on the Cornish coast.

Becky is an ex-London Creative Director with over 15 years experience providing award winning concepts, designs and creative strategy for marketing and advertising clients including Direct Line, SEAT, Radox and the Disney Channel.  Peter is an interior designer whose fine art background and passion for style have led to an impressive portfolio that ranges from sumptuous Ralph Lauren interiors to slick city pads.

As Becky said 'We'd like to think we offer something a bit different, providing a seamless approach to all design needs. From interiors and artwork to advertising and websites, we have the passion and experience to be partners in a business's success.'

In the few short months since starting their joint business venture, McOwen and Banks have launched their website, made important business contacts and taken on clients including local art galleries.  Their light, airy studio in the creative seaside town of Marazion was a chance find, and they have settle in well - enjoying the sense of community and the inspirational environment.

Becky said 'It was the art and craft heritage that brought us to West Cornwall and it's that same creative community that's driving us here today. What a privilege to be able to live and work in such an environment, knowing there are names such as Hepworth, Nicholson and Blow to live up to. Getting a business going from scratch has been tough but we like a challenge and are hungry to get involved in some more projects and make our mark.'

Becky and Peter are keen to use local suppliers where possible, and their previous experience means they are used to meeting customer's high expectations and working to tight time frames.

InvestinCornwall helped McOwen and Banks with information regarding business networks, and the duo have joined several including the Cornwall Design Network and Cornwall Chamber of Commerce.    Peter said 'We realise the importance of networks in Cornwall.  It gives us a chance to meet other businesses as well as potential suppliers, and make ourselves know within the community.'

Becky has attended the West Cornwall and Falmouth business breakfasts and joined the Hub - continuing the networking on a local level.  She has also taken advantage of a web design course run through the Digital Peninsula Network  - completing her knowledge and allowing her to offer creative skills across all media platforms, from TV and video, to print and online.

The best thing about making the move to Cornwall?  Becky said 'Where else could you find a wealth of art and culture amongst such stunning scenery? If an idea isn't coming, no longer do I take a stroll to a bookshop, it's a brisk walk along the coast path, dog in tow. Nothing like a few stunning views and possibly some seal sightings to kick the brain off again!'