INTRODUCTION
This Cookies Policy explains how I, Julie Swinsco, Artist, use cookies and similar tracking technologies on julieswinsco.com. It describes what cookies are, which ones I use (including those for WooCommerce, WooPay, Google Analytics, Facebook, Instagram, and Mailchimp), and how you can manage or disable them.
1. What are Cookies
Cookies are small text files stored on your device (computer, tablet, smartphone) when you visit a website.
They help the website remember your actions, preferences, or device, so you don’t have to enter information repeatedly.
Cookies can be “session cookies” (deleted when you close your browser) or “persistent cookies” (remain for a period after).
2. How I Use Cookies
I use cookies to improve your experience on the site, process orders, provide payment services, analyse traffic, and ensure the site runs smoothly. Cookies also help when you shop: remembering what’s in your cart, identifying you during checkout, and maintaining your session.
3. Types of Cookies I Use
| Category | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Essential Cookies | Required for site functionality and e-commerce. Without them, features like cart, checkout, and login won’t work. |
| Functional / Preference Cookies | Remember your preferences (e.g. display settings, locale) to personalise your experience. |
| Performance / Analytics Cookies | Track how visitors use the site, which helps me improve design and content. |
| Marketing / Advertising Cookies | Help deliver relevant ads, social media sharing, and email campaigns, while measuring effectiveness. |
4. WooCommerce Cookies
Because my site uses WooCommerce for online shopping, some cookies are set by WooCommerce to support its features. These include:
| Cookie Name | Type / Duration | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
woocommerce_cart_hash | Session cookie | Helps detect when cart contents change. |
woocommerce_items_in_cart | Session cookie | Tracks that something is in your cart. |
wp_woocommerce_session_* | Persistent (2 days) | Identifies your session so WooCommerce knows which cart belongs to you. |
woocommerce_recently_viewed | Session cookie | Remembers products you recently viewed. |
store_notice[notice_id] | Session cookie | Lets you close or dismiss store notices. |
* The wp_woocommerce_session_ cookie uses a unique code per visitor so cart data is linked via database.
5. WooPay / Payment-Related Cookies
When you use payment services (WooPay or similar):
Payment gateways may set cookies to verify identity, prevent fraud, or complete transactions.
These may include session cookies or persistent cookies, depending on the provider.
No sensitive payment details (like full card numbers) are stored in cookies.
6. Third-Party Cookies
In addition to WooCommerce and WooPay, I use third-party cookies to support analytics, social media integration, and email marketing.
Google Analytics
Google Analytics helps me understand how visitors use the site.
It tracks information such as pages visited, time on site, and links clicked.
This data helps me improve my artwork portfolio pages, shop, and overall site experience.
Google Analytics cookies may include
_ga,_gid, and_gat.
Facebook cookies allow features like page sharing and tracking visitors who come from Facebook ads.
They help measure the effectiveness of campaigns and allow me to connect with my audience.
Facebook may set cookies such as
fr,_fbp, and others.
Instagram cookies support embedded feeds and sharing artwork posts.
They help display social content and track engagement from Instagram users.
Mailchimp
Mailchimp cookies support my email marketing campaigns.
They track newsletter sign-ups, manage subscriber preferences, and monitor the performance of campaigns (e.g. opens and clicks).
7. Managing Your Cookie Preferences
You have control over cookies:
When you first visit, you may see a cookie consent banner to manage non-essential cookies.
You can accept or decline cookies at any time.
You can also disable cookies in your browser settings. Each browser is different, so check its “Settings” or “Preferences” section.
Please note: disabling cookies may affect some features, like cart functionality or checkout.
8. Retention of Cookie Data
Session cookies are deleted when you close your browser.
Persistent cookies remain for a set period (varies by provider).
Analytics and marketing cookies may last longer, depending on the service provider.
9. Policy Changes
I may update this Cookies Policy occasionally (for example, when adding new services or to comply with changes in law). If I do, I’ll update the date below and post the revised policy here. Continued use of the site indicates acceptance of the updated policy.
10. Contact
If you have any questions about this Cookies Policy or wish to withdraw consent, please get in touch with me:
Julie Swinsco, Artist
Email: sales@julieswinsco.com
Last modified: 16/09/2025