Swell Magazine exists because we believe in the magic of slowing down. In a world that’s fast, noisy, and digital-first, Swell offers a return to the tactile, the thoughtful, and the local. We celebrate stories that connect, calm, and inspire. Sound like something you’d like to be a part of? Here’s what our past winners had to say!
Penny Blunden
of Sick Happens
2024 Story Search Winner
A pediatric nurse’s mission to support parents through their children’s common illnesses.
“Being featured in Swell was an incredible opportunity for Sick Happens. The generous spread didn’t just introduce my business to a wider, deeply engaged audience, it also brought a sense of local recognition that’s hard to quantify.
“Since the article was published, I’ve had so many people reach out to say they hadn’t realised I was local, even though they’d been following along for quite some time. That kind of connection is powerful. “What stood out most was how beautifully the Swell team told my story, capturing the heart of Sick Happens in a way that felt both honest and empowering.
“Beyond the business impact, it gave me a renewed sense of confidence as a founder. It reminded me why I do this work, and why it matters. Thank you for championing small, local businesses and giving us a platform to be seen, heard, and celebrated.”
The Conscious Exchange
2022 Story Search Winner
Emma Hartley’s journey in creating a sustainable fashion hub in Islington.
“I still can’t believe the community came together to vote for us to win the Swell Story Search! It was a massive confidence boost after a tough couple of years doing business. We loved the opportunity to tell our story in depth and the response was extremely positive and supportive. We feel super honoured to be published in such a beautiful local magazine!”
Amble & Twine
2022 Story Search Runner Up
Amble & Twine is a beautiful online store by Elizabeth, offering wild, all-natural dried flower creations grown and gathered from her home garden and family farms.
“It was an amazing experience. It brought an incredible amount of engagement to my page and shop and record sales as well!”
Their stories have resonated deeply with our readers, showcasing the richness of our local tapestry.
How to get involved:
- Visit our Instagram page.
- Comment on the Story Search post with a brief description of the story.
- Tag the nominee.
- Ensure both of you are following @swellmag
Nominations are open from 2 – 12 June. Let’s continue to celebrate the stories that make our community extraordinary.
