THE IDEA
The idea for Ace Places came to me in August 2022. I wanted to create something that brought people together, celebrated local places and encouraged us to discover more of what's on our doorstep.
Whilst familiar brands offer the comfort of knowing what you're getting, I believe it's the independent businesses that really give a place its soul. They're the ones full of character, passion and personality.
So, why not bring these businesses together in a pack of beautifully illustrated playing cards that doubles as a local guide?
And so Ace Places was born, launching in Henley-on-Thames in March 2023, with Marlow following later that year.
Emma Sweet Founder, Ace Places
Photo (left) courtesy of Richard Pinches.
FUN ON THE GO
Take these cards to the pub with you and make new friends, on holiday by the pool or at home with a takeaway and a few drinks with the family. Wherever you’re playing cards, know that I’ve loved every minute of working on them and the overwhelmingly positive vibes from everyone who sees the packs has made them a true joy to work on.
NICOLA METCALFE
Nicola is a creative genius and a joy to work with. Her designs are magnificent, and this project would be nothing without her. Her drawings have captured the spirit of our towns and sparked love from those keen to be involved or get their hands on a pack.
Nicola lives in Marlow, and her website is well worth a visit. I’m often asked whether we were friends before the playing cards, and the honest answer is no. I took my idea to Nicola after seeing another project she’d worked on, and we didn’t meet until a few months later. But she’s definitely a friend now.
BEING GREEN
At Ace Places, we’re keen on being green! From using UK-based suppliers and FSC-approved printing to supporting local charities with every pack sold, sustainability is at the heart of what we do. We’re always looking for ways to minimise our environmental impact while celebrating local communities.
Click the blue button below to find out more about our eco-friendly practices.
Our Green RoutineTHE FOUNDER
With over 20 years of marketing experience, including 16 years in the hospitality and pub industry, Emma Sweet brings a wealth of knowledge to Ace Places.
Holding a Master's degree in Marketing, Emma was previously Marketing Manager at Brakspear, the Henley-based pub company.
Her career has given her first-hand experience of what makes independent businesses stand out, how to connect with customers and the importance of creating a strong sense of place.
Today, Emma combines that expertise with her passion for supporting independent businesses, growing Ace Places into a concept that can celebrate communities across the UK.
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AWARD-WINNING
What started as a simple idea to celebrate independent businesses has grown into a multi-award-winning business.
Ace Places has received recognition for its achievements in marketing, innovation, entrepreneurship and community impact.
These awards are a fantastic endorsement of the concept and the difference we're making, but none of it would be possible without the brilliant businesses, charities and communities who are part of the packs.
With exciting plans to bring Ace Places to more towns and destinations across the UK, we're only just getting started!
Our awardsOUR CARD SPONSORS
A big thank you to all of the independent businesses, local charities, town councils and organisations who have sponsored a card so far. Without you taking a punt on a new idea, we’d never have got this far. Thank you for recognising it as the new marketing opportunity and sales tool that it was designed to be. Please do visit the places in the pack and tell them you’re there because of seeing them on the cards. It will make it all worthwhile and there’s a reason they made the pack.
Fun & Events
Ace Adventures
What Is Marlow Famous For? 10 Things You Might Not Know
Marlow is one of those towns where you can arrive for a quick wander and somehow end up staying all afternoon. There’s the river, the shops, the food, the history - and quite a few famous names alo...
Why Is Henley Royal Regatta So Famous? The Story Behind Henley’s Most Iconic Event
Every summer, Henley-on-Thames transforms. The river fills with rowing crews, the town becomes wonderfully busy and suddenly everyone seems to have an opinion on hats, blazers and who has the best ...
The unexpected thing our four awards have in common
Ace Places has won awards for marketing, innovation, entrepreneurship and community. Founder Emma Sweet looks at what they reveal about the idea and where the playing card concept could go next.
retail the packs
Fancy selling these blooming marvellous cards? Become a retailer and play a part in sharing the story of your town.
OUR GREEN ROUTINE
We keep our carbon footprint to a minimum by printing locally with vegan and FSC-approved printing processes.
Charity Support
We’re proud that each pack supports a dedicated charity, with a 25p donation made from every pack sold.
