This commissioned piece began with a heartfelt request from a mother who wanted something truly special for her daughter’s 18th birthday—something that could be treasured not only on the day, but throughout her life.

She shared her daughter’s favourite colours and flowers and asked that several meaningful words be incorporated, including the beautiful sentiment, “Wishing you everything wonderful.” Above all, she wanted the finished piece to carry a lasting message of love—something her daughter could hold on to, even when her mother was no longer beside her.

As I designed the piece, I imagined the birdcage as a place of safekeeping: somewhere dreams, memories and a mother’s love could be gently held during childhood. The butterflies represent the daughter’s transformation as she steps into adulthood, carrying those treasured memories from their place of safekeeping and into her heart. Wherever life takes her, they will travel with her.

A particularly meaningful detail is hidden within the pink blossoms in the upper-right corner. The flowers have been embossed in gold with script taken from the personal birthday message appearing below: “Happy 18th Birthday, my darling daughter.” In this way, her mother’s words are not simply written upon the artwork—they have become part of its flowers, its beauty and its story.

Although the design is filled with delicate, symbolic details, its message is wonderfully simple: a mother’s love becomes part of who we are. It grows with us, strengthens us and remains within our hearts as we carry our dreams and memories forward into the world.