Our weekend review this week comes from homeware designer Yvonne Ellen, Yvonne is a girl after our own hearts with a passion for macarons! We talk about how it feels to win the Etsy Retail Star award and the best places to eat out in London and Paris...
What do you do for work?
I design and make a unique range of tableware designed to add charm and intrigue to your home. I have a strong passion for beautiful fine bone china alongside a love of quirky, decorative illustration which I combine to create one of a kind ranges with Yvonne Ellen homeware
What inspired you to start your own range?
It all started with a cake plate that I made as a wedding gift for a friend of mine. After some great feedback, I decided to take the leap into selling online. The thought that my pieces are adorning homes all over the world is a fantastic feeling.
What's been your proudest Career moment so far?
Since launching Yvonne Ellen in 2012 I have been lucky enough to take part in a variety of different and exciting projects. These included live illustration in the shop window of London department store Liberty, running upcycling workshops and even posing in my underwear for a "Women in Making' photoshoot!
And your biggest achievement outside of work?
My biggest achievement outside of work would probably be making my slightly dishevelled little flat into a beautiful home. It took a lot of blood, sweat and tears but it is now the place I like to spend most of my time.
When is your weekend?
I try to keep Saturday and Sunday free as this is when my partner's time off work is, but inevitably I often end up packing orders or answering customer emails during the weekend! I try to delegate as much as possible on weekends so I have a chance to gather my thoughts and clear my head, something I feel is extremely important when running your own business.
How did you spend this weekend?
This weekend I actually had my Hen Do as i'm getting married in a couple of weeks! Very exciting times indeed but I must say that planning a wedding alongside running a business has been rather 'challenging'! Many, many lists have been made along the way and I have relied quite a bit on my lovely bridesmaids.
How typical was it for you?
Typically my weekends are spent seeing friends or visiting local shops and markets. I live in London so there is always something amazing to go and see or do. My current favourite market is Maltby Street Market in Bermondsey, the food stalls there are incredible and there is so much variety.
What was your highlight of last week?
My highlight was winning the 2016 Etsy Retail Star award! It is always great to be recognised for my work and makes it all worthwhile.
Tell us about your ideal Sunday Menu...
Breakfast: Brunch (Not breakfast on a Sunday as a Lie in is required!) at Modern Pantry in Clerkenwell, London with my partner. They do the best food ever and the decor is seriously gorgeous.
Lunch: I would hop on the Eurostar to Paris and go to my favourite restaurant Hotel Costes with all of my girlfriends. Followed my a trip to Laduree for some macarons
Dinner: Jerk Chicken, rice n peas at my local restaurant Banners in Crouch end, London. Literally the best food in the world!
What's in your Fridge?
Not very much! I have so many fab restaurants and takeaways near me I tend to dine out a little too much!
Quick fire- Name your absolute favourite...
Book: Me before you, JoJo Moyes
Film: Stand By Me
Album: TLC, Creep
Holiday Destination: Thailand
Museum: V&A
Designer: Givenchy
How can people follow what you do and get in contact?
www.yvonneellen.com
info@yvonneellen.com
https://www.facebook.com/yvonneellenhomeware
https://www.instagram.com/yvonneellen