Women’s History Month – Natalie Reeves Billing

“Natalie Reeves Billing is a Liverpool lass with a wicked sense of humour. She writes fantastical stories for young audiences and dabbles in poetry and fiction. Natalie enjoys map making, pranking people, and munching on jellybeans. She lives in an old farmhouse in Merseyside with her husband, children, and fluffy dog, Scoobs.” – Reeves Billing, 2021

As part of our Women’s History Month celebrations, we spoke to author Natalie Reeves Billing about her experience in pursuing a career in creative business! 

What’s your favourite thing about working in the creative industry? 

I love that nothing is impossible. In my world, birds can live under the sea, and human beings can be grown in flower pots. Every day is a new adventure, and life is certainly never dull. 

What has been the biggest challenge in your career so far? 

I think the biggest challenge is the point at which business and creativity meet. It's inevitable, but when we spawn a new idea, grow, nurture and love it for so long, then with much reluctance, it's time to let go. Let our babies spread their wings and see what the world makes of them. Sometimes that world doesn't love them quite as much as we do, and that hurts. Our ideas are a part of us, tied to our heart and soul. 

What has been the biggest highlight in your career so far? 

I love all of my social projects and love seeing the impact they create in the community. Still, I think being involved in the upcoming #BoatofHope project just about steals the crown. Alongside social entrepreneur Bernie Hollywood OBE, the Samaritans, ParentPay, Love Rowing, and so many other amazing people, we are going to raise over a million pounds. This will fund the formation of the first young person's mental health network in the country. It will sit inside our high schools, providing advice, comfort and guidance for vulnerable young people.  Bernie will row the Atlantic in a tiny boat, and I will write the book that documents it. It's the most important story I've ever written. 

Who is the most inspirational woman to you? Did they inspire you to pursue a creative career?

This is a tough one; there are so many.

My mum planted a seed of creativity in me, way back in my tiny years. She'd take me on night-time adventures in our magic bed, which travelled the globe and beyond every night. When I cast my mind back to that special time, it feels completely real. That's the power of storytelling. 

Following on, one of my best friend's Angela Churm, a fantastic writer for TV and Radio, let me in to what is a true writer's life. She gave me a window into her uniquely imaginative world. She taught me the true meaning of following your heart and became a kindred spirit and such an important anchor in my life. 

What is your advice for women who want to start a creative business or pursue a career in the creative industry? 

My advice would be, if an idea has you giddy with excitement, full of love, pride, joy, wonder, then follow it and don't compromise. Figure out what aspects of your idea are fundamental, and don't budge on them. The other things can be changed, bent, manipulated, shaved but not that initial spark. Never that. 

Stick with it, and you will find your audience through authenticity and consistency. 

You can keep up to date with Natalie’s journey at https://www.nataliereevesbilling.co.uk