Hi friend,
April had a way of arriving right when I needed it. Like it knew that I desperately needed a a jumpstart.
This month's snail mail was put together with a lot of love and maybe a little bit of magic. The kind that only happens when the right people show up at the right time. I hope you feel that when you open this.
Bookish cottagecore felt like the perfect exhale after a season that asked a lot of us. Soft vibes, quiet meadows, the smell of something comforting. This little envelope is full of all of that, sent straight to you because you deserve something gentle landing in your mailbox this month.
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What Was Inside Your March Snail Mail
- A 5×7 postcard illustrated by Cecilia Morillo, created exclusively for Heartbound and inspired by the gentle cottagecore life.
- A QR code that brought you here, to this members-only space filled with special surprises, extras, and behind-the-scenes moments just for you.
- A cozy sticker sheet.
- A bookmark that matches the vibe of the theme.
- A reading prompt to encourage you to pick up a read set in a small town.
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Get to Know Your March Artist: Cecila Morillo
We are so honored to feature our mom, Cecilia, for this month's postcard!
How would you describe your art style in three words?
Realism, Impressionism, Art Nouveau
What drew you to this month's theme, and what did you hope readers would feel?
I was actually inspired to join this month’s theme after my daughter asked me to create something based on the sample images. As soon as I looked at them, I immediately felt those soft, refreshing springtime vibes. That feeling guided me to sketch a peaceful scene where someone can fully enjoy the season, sitting in a quiet meadow, surrounded by nature, and getting lost in a good book.
With this illustration, I hoped readers would feel a sense of calm and warmth, and maybe even be reminded to slow down, enjoy the lovely weather, and immerse themselves in a story of their own.
Do you have a favorite romance trope or love story?
I’m especially drawn to fantasy romance! Stories with witches, fairies, and a touch of magic woven into the love story. I also love romance with an element of mystery or the paranormal, like time loops or supernatural twists that add depth and intrigue.
As for favorites, I always find myself coming back to The Lake House and You’ve Got Mail. Both have that quiet, emotional pull that really stays with me.
Where do you usually find inspiration?
It really depends on what the theme is about. From there, I usually look at real-life references, photos of people, places, or objects, to help ground the piece and bring it to life.
For personal projects, it’s a bit more intuitive. I tend to draw whenever I feel inspired, whether it’s capturing a quiet piece of nature I’ve seen somewhere or translating a meaningful milestone or moment in a loved one’s life into a sketch.
How do you like to slow down or find softness in everyday life?
I like to slow down by keeping things simple and cozy, reading a good book, listening to music, or watching a movie on the television. Those quiet moments help me unwind, reset, and find a little softness in the middle of everyday life.
Where can readers find and support your work?
Currently, I am still working on building my portfolio and collection for my Cilmorillese Studios.
Any small joy you've been loving lately?
Lately, I’ve been enjoying my quiet moments reading a book and binge-watching historical movies on Netflix and YouTube.
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Member Extras
Bookish Cottagecore Phone Wallpaper
Cozy, gentle and perfect for your lock screen.
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March was a tough one for a lot of us, and if you are still finding your footing coming out of it, this one is for you.
This article from The Good Trade has been sitting in my bookmarks for a while and I keep coming back to it. It is honest, gentle, and does not ask you to just snap out of it. Instead it meets you right where you are, in the slump, and walks alongside you.
Consider it a little extra something from me to you this month.
How I Check In On My Mental Health When I'm In A Slump
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Behind the Design
April's design came together in the most unexpected way. Our original artist wasn't able to deliver, so with very little time to spare, I called my mom.
She had never drawn digitally before, but she watched the tutorials, picked up her iPad, and got to work. I sent her a million reference photos and I think she did beautifully.
We also have a second postcard this month from an artist who came through last minute. Two interpretations of the same theme, similar vibes, different styles. 🌸
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Here's to slower mornings, softer landings, and all the magic that finds us when we stop forcing it.
With love,
Jenika & the Heartbound family 🤍