Girl Bosses of Great Britain - House Of Coco Magazine

Fashion February 8, 2019

Girl Boss : Walking in Jerelyn Creado’s shoes

We’re kicking off this year’s Girl Boss coverage with even more in-depth interviews and exploring the inspirations that get amazing female entrepreneurs going and the hacks that keep them on top. We start our new series with the smart, creative Jerelyn, founder and designer of italian-made shoe brand Jerelyn Creado.

HOC: Great to meet you, Jerelyn! You’ve been on quite a journey, in terms of your career and geographically…

Jerelyn:Yes and I ended up in Italy! I moved to Leeds back in 2010 from Mumbai and while I was studying there, I fell in love with a wonderful Italian man. He invited me to move to Italy with him, so I did!

Moving away from Leeds was difficult as it’s the city in which I learnt to be independent. It was the first city that I lived in on my own, without my parents. I had lots of friends and enjoyed everything about the city. I will always remember Leeds as the city where I actually discovered myself, but then again life moves on and change is good. Now my friends have a little holiday spot in Italy!

Moving to Italy was a big step, but I was excited to start something new, learn a new language and a new culture. Once I was living in Italy, one of my favourite things to do was window shopping in Milan and it was always the shoes that attracted my attention.

I did my research and found out about course in pattern making, prototyping and footwear design. We moved back to the UK and from then until where I am now with Jerelyn Creadowas me saving up for the course and moving back to Italy to pursue my new obsession. It was tough to spend time away from my now-husband but he was behind me all the way and encouraged me to start my own brand. We recently moved to Granada, as you can probably tell, I adore travelling. Jerelyn Creado shoes are made back in Italy and being able to travel for work is absolutely wonderful.

HOC: Before we get into the important stuff, please tell us some hot tips about Italy?

Jerelyn: Haha, of course! I can’t get enough of the food and the style in Italy. My top tip would be a gem of a place; the gulf of Gargano in Puglia is a must visit. It’s the part on top of the heel of Italy that protrudes. It’s beautiful, the people are wonderful and the food and wine is amazing!

HOC: What we love about your brand is that you are a strong woman, designing beautiful shoes for other strong women.

Jerelyn: Thanks for saying that! I’ve been inspired by so many women but above all, my mother. My mother is and always was very independent. She managed our home and her job at the same time and we never wanted for anything! Not only is she independent but she is also very strong and patient.

Over the years I have been lucky to befriend and work with a lot of women. Of course, not all of them have been pleasant and kind, but it’s not those women that have left a mark on my life. The ones that have influenced my path are the ones that are not only strong but are also successful and compassionate. They helped me to become the person I am today and therefore when I created Jerelyn Creado they deserved to be part of it, which is why I’ve named many of the shoes from my collections after them.

For instance, Jovita is a childhood friend of mine. She is a few years older and I have always looked up to her for advice. She is like the older sister I never had. She was a top student at school and excelled at almost everything. She was always composed and very poised growing up and even now. The heel I designed in her name represents her because apart from her being good at everything she does she is also very easy going and fun. The design of Jovita is based on this personality. The red is the fun and easy going side while the perforations in black patent leather is the elegant/independent woman on top!

Women sometimes don’t realise that other women look up to them and inspire them. It’s very important for all of us to lift each other up and not put each other down.

HOC: What fantastic inspiration for naming your creations. Where does your design inspiration come from?

Jerelyn: The inspiration for my first collection came from men’s shoes; I have always loved to dress up a pair of Derbys with monk straps with tights and a dress or an Oxford shoe with a short jumpsuit. With my collection I wanted to create a similar vibe, but with heels or the saddle of the penny loafer on an ankle boot, the monk strap on a pump with toe cleavage. I love little twists on the classics and, of course, some bright colours!

A walk always helps with a creative block. I used to live in Wales, by the seaside and the fresh air proved to be very helpful. Runs have always been good for me as well, being active makes my brain sort of wake up.

HOC: What do you love about what you do?

Jerelyn: The whole process of designing footwear excites me; from researching for materials to going to fairs like Linea Pelle to find the perfect piece of leather. I love the detail I go into during discussions with the artisans about the different types of heels and even the brainstorming I have to do when I don’t find what I want and need to find a solution.

My favourite parts of it all are late night designing with music on and the day I go to the factory to see my designs come to life as prototypes before production.

I like to be present during the production phase and to get my hands dirty. At the end of the day, it is my brand and I want to be wholly part of everything. To me my shoes are my children, I want to be present for every moment in their lives!

HOC: What are your ambitions for Jerelyn Creado this year?

Jerelyn: My dream is to see my brand in Harrods, Selfridges and Browns in London and La Rinascente in Milan, Barney’s and Bloomingdales in New York. Realistically, these are part of my 5-year plan.

For now, we are enjoying selling direct to customer as I love the interaction. We’ll be showing at various fairs like Moda Made in Italy and hopefully launching a small pop-up store during London Fashion Week in September.

I would like to see Jerelyn Creado shoes in more stores and would love for more women to experience the style, comfort and craftsmanship of a quality pair of shoes. I am also planning to introduce a small men’s line as I have had a few requests.

HOC: In addition to your footwear, what other female run fashion brands do you love?

Jerelyn: I have always loved Isabel Marant, I love her designs; they’re very rock girl mixed with Parisian chic. I have watched a few documentaries on her and she seems super cool, I love finding out about the person behind the brand!

Another female designer who I admire is Victoria Beckham; she is truly someone to look up to when it comes to looking after business, family and doing all of that while looking absolutely stunning. I also like Giulia Rositani , that brand has lovely prints!

HOC: If you weren’t running Jerelyn Creado, what could career plan B have looked like?

Jerelyn: I used to be an event planner (back office) and I probably would’ve still been doing that or teaching kids English in Italy or Spain. When I was much younger, 12, I did want to be a model, but I’m only about 5 feet 3 inches!

If I had any advice to give to myself earlier in my career it would be to trust myself and my decisions and not be bothered about people’s opinions. Everyone has a right to have an opinion and it’s important to take the good out of it and not be affected by the bad!

To shop Jerelyn’s gorgeous collection of shoes head to jerelyncreado.com

Business February 4, 2019

Step into my five-star office; a glam new way to co-work with Spacemize

How often have you been caught out, in between meetings in London in the pouring rain, battery on your phone dying, right before an important phone call? Don’t worry, #GirlBoss, this new platform that opens up some of London’s most exclusive hotels and restaurants as daytime workspaces launched earlier this year. (In the lead image,on the left, Tzvete Doncheva, Head of Business Development)

Spacemize, already a popular concept in North America, is set to takeover here in London offering an environment which is more productive than working at home in your PJs and fluffy socks and cheaper than renting desk space. You can now book in to work from luxe spots like W Hotel London and Andaz Hyatt between 9am and 5pm from only £99/month. Membership to Spacemize also includes exclusive restaurant and spa perks and free tea and coffee to keep your hustle going.

Before you sign up for that dingy office space over the chicken shop (yes, we’ve viewed it too!) take a look at Spacemize.com ; wouldn’t you rather carry out your new business activities from a plush velvet sofa at Mamounia Mayfair? .
Want to try out co-working in Central London? Go to Spacemize.com and use code ‘HOUSEOFCOCO’ for an exclusive free day pass, valid until the end of February 2019.

Food & Drink December 5, 2018

Girl Bosses: Shaking it off with Mariena Mercer, Chief Mixologist at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas

A few weeks ago you might have enjoyed a Bathtub cocktail at the super secret Visit Las Vegas pop up bar in East London, curated by the incredible Mariena Mercer, chief mixologist at The Cosmopolitan hotel of Las Vegas (cosmopolitanlasvegas.com)

We were blown away by the evening’s entertainment (contortionists!!) but more so by Mariena’s creativity and just had to know more about her journey and her hidden Vegas.

HOC: Hey Mariena, can you tell us about your story to how you got to where you are today?

MM: I’d say I have landed in the position I am in today through many acts of serendipitous kismet and always being passionately curious. I was studying chemistry when a job was created for me called, “Tequila Goddess.”

Just after my 21st birthday I jumped on a plane to study at different distilleries in the town of Tequila. I fell in love with the spirit and came back to the states where I started consulting on Tequila programs. From there it was a natural progression to “geek out” on other spirits and bartending.

I started competing in cocktail competitions, which enabled me to meet really amazing people and travel the world and hone my craft. I’ve always been fascinated with alchemy and creativity so I really delved in the mixology side of bartending. I’ve been with The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas for over 8 years, where I currently design 17 menus across property and oversee the creative vision of the beverage program. Every day is something new and exciting!

HOC: Have you ever had to overcome prejudice to you being a woman in this industry?

MM: I’ve certainly been in positions where I have been underestimated, but I’ve never let that discourage me. The contrary, really I use that as one of my greatest weapons. I am confident that my abilities are superlative, so they can watch my performance and take notes. The industry has always been a bit of a boys club, but it’s really energising to watch so many strong and talented women supplant that. I’ve got a great group of boss babes that I keep around me as inspiration.

HOC: What’s your favourite hidden spot in Vegas?

MM: I may be biased, but Ghost Donkey at The Cosmopolitan (cosmopolitanlasvegas.com/lounges-bars/ghost-donkey) is our new Tequila & Mezcal bar. It’s uber-hip and looks like it should be in a Tarantino movie. There are truffle nachos and killer cocktails! Agave always pulls at my heart strings and I may just move my office there…

HOC: We hear there is a hidden gem cocktail menu at the Resort…can you let us in on the secret?

MM: There is a cocktail that is served at The Chandelier Bar and it is not on any menu, just word of mouth. It’s our most popular cocktail with near 600,000 sold. It’s called “The Verbena”and it’s an exotic margarita of Silver Tequila, Yuzu Sour, & Ginger. It is garnished with a Szechuan flower (street name “Buzz Button”) which is this incredible flower that is a natural alkaloid. When you eat this flower, it speeds up your salivary glands and makes you a super-taster. Suddenly your entire mouth is tingling and you are tasting different nuances and flavours. I always say it’s like tasting in living colour. It’s such a great experience and definitely my greatest hit.

HOC: What inspires you to create your cocktails and how often do you add new ones to your menus?

MM: Honestly, my cocktails are just a great expression of me and what I’m enamoured with at the time. I can look over my past cocktail menus and they are really just snapshots of things I was passionate about at the moment- songs I was listening to, books I was reading, food I was eating, and love affairs with different spirits.

I really take inspiration from everything around me. I always want to be present and immersed in everything around me. I constantly have a notebook where I am jotting down different inspirations. I’ve coined a portmanteau “Slee-piphany”(sleep + epiphany) because I do my best work in my sleep. I just wake up, write down whatever was on my mind and fall back asleep. It’s always a great surprise in the morning.

HOC: What cocktail will you be shaking up this festive season?

MM: Nothing says celebration to me like Champagne. I love doing floral-inspired French 75’s with flavoured pearls in a marie antoinette coupe.

HOC: What’s big for cocktails in 2019, in your wisdom?

MM: I’ve always adored Mezcal and the rich culture of Oaxaca. I think the rest of the world is quickly catching up. In the States, there are so many artisan Mezcals available now that really tell the passionate story of Mezcal, and I think that is so exciting. Mezcal cheekys are also the best way to start a night out (mini- pours of Mezcal)!

To plan your very own hidden Vegas adventure head over to visitlasvegas.com and be sure to head to The Chandelier bar at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas; cosmopolitanlasvegas.com to sample some of Mariena’s ingenius crafted cocktails.

Fashion November 27, 2018

GIRL BOSSES OF GREAT BRITAIN: FREDDIE HARREL & HUAWEI NEW WORKING ORDER

HOC: Who is a member of the NWO? What characterises them?

Freddie: The New Working order is a segment of Gen Z who works with an exploratory, innovative style, using technology (like their phones!) to enhance their creativity and productivity. They express themselves with confidence and style, collaborate with others, engage meaningfully with the world around them, and are motivated by purpose and passion in everything they do. Many of them are also deciding not to work the traditional 9-5 but instead turn their passions into pounds and build custom careers that are bespoke to them. They have a strong self-starter mentality, with over half admitting that they already have a passion project on the side!

HOC: Is this really how we’ll ALL work in the future? What skills do we need to have?

Freddie: It’s definitely a possibility, particularly as technology plays an increasingly important role in all our lives and careers. To be successful in the future, today’s young people will require creative skills, vision, and the ability to be responsive and to act.. To get there though, we need to overcome the current lack of access to technology and funds which is restricting young people from achieving their goals. 62% of Gen Z say that limited access to technology and funds is acting as a barrier to them achieving their potential.

HOC: Tell us about this comp with Huawei, how / where can we enter?

Freddie: I’m really excited to be working with Huawei to give away one of three £10,000 bursaries to mark the launch of the Huawei Mate 20 Pro which will help young creative talent take their passion project to the next level. It could be for a new online course, to record a new podcast series, set up a supper club, sell something online, whatever their passion project may be. To be in with a chance of winning you all you need to do is submit a personal statement of 500 words to huaweinewworkingorder.co.uk by the 10th December.

HOC: You are no strangers to lifting other women up, what’s happening with SHE Unleashed?

Freddie: The SHE Unleashed workshops have taken a step back for a moment as I’ve been doing so much with Big Hair No Care, with pop-ups launching in both Paris and New York. The workshops will be back later next year but I’ve been working on something new and really exciting – my own podcast!

The podcast (launching before the end of the year) ties in nicely to the work I’ve been doing for SHE Unleashed. It will be all about being confident at times of vulnerability and I’ll discuss topics like self love, care, growth, finding confidence, chasing your dreams and creating the life you want. The workshops will be back in the near future but for now, I’m concentrating on bringing you my podcast that you can listen to at any time.

HOC: Let’s be honest, how the hell do you fit it all in?

Freddie: It can be difficult to fit everything in but I manage it well. I think the first part is accepting that everything will continue to move around you – your businesses, relationships and confidence in a new life being a mother.

The real key is a having a strong support system, which I definitely am lucky enough to have. My mother is amazing, as is my husband, Tom. They both look after my son, Hugo, when I’m working at the weekends and on weekdays so I don’t have to worry about him. My friends are also a big part of my support team and I’m never afraid or too proud to ask for their help.

I have a great support team in my working life too and they help me piece everything together – one day I’ll be on a photo shoot and the next, I’ll be coordinating my other projects sat at my desk.

This year has been particularly difficult to fit it all in, I sadly lost my Father and still being new to motherhood can be a challenge. If I’m down, I encourage myself to pull it together and keep going – I read a lot of spiritual books, meditate everyday and have acupuncture. I also make sure I have a couple of slow mornings every week to keep myself in balance.

HOC: And what’s happening with your brand?

Freddie: We’ve had amazing year – we had a three-day pop-up in Paris so it was nice to bring the brand to my home, where I usually hang with my friends. We also launched a pop-up in New York, which had an incredible reception, so much so that we are heading to the US in 2019! It’s incredible to see Big Hair No Care do so well and I feel so proud that I started out as blogger and grew my businesses through social media – the power of technology! I will always remember where I started out but now my long-term goal is to grow my business.

HOC: Do you believe in New Year’s Resolutions / Mantras – and if so, what are yours?

Freddie: I’m not so sure about New Year’s Resolutions as they are bound by the fact you need to change something about yourself. I feel it should be a theme based on your personal growth so I try to have intentions instead. This year it was my intention to find my voice and have the courage to start my own podcast. Next year, it is about being settled in to my projects and focus on creating from a place of confidence and validity.

The New Working Order competition runs from the 27th November and ends on the 10th December. For your chance to win a £10,000 creative bursary or Huawei Mate 20 Pro visit www.huaweinewworkingorder.co.uk by 10th December 2018.

Argentina November 25, 2018

After-Work drinks: Girl Bosses of the booze industry

“Powerful. Badass. Natural” are the three words that Annie Pautsch uses about being a pioneering woman in the often perceived male-dominated beer industry. The words send a shiver down your spine, not unlike the warming sensation of the first sip of that hard earned pint, promising an exciting, freeing evening ahead.

She explains that the brewing community around her business Brew Cruz largely exists because of strong women – “it just so happens that men like brewing as well.” From the wheel of ‘Betty Jane’, her lovingly restored eighties school bus, she showcases the beauty of her hometown Santa Cruz, spinning tales of small business glories through four local breweries.

From the sunny shores of California, through the rum connoisseurs of Jamaica to the newly appointed Kelsey McKechnie, a 25 year old apprentice malt master at The Balvenie. – the answer to that eternal question – who run the world? – is definitely girls.

As one of the most interesting industries out there, the drinks business is ever evolving; shaking up stereotypes as well as some mighty fine drinks. If you’ve ever thought about moving into this industry, starting up your own tipple side hustle or just want to know where and what to drink, grab a glass and read on.

Click through each of our Girl Bosses to read their full interviews…

Sasha Filimonov, Brand Ambassador hendricksgin.com (full interview here)

Sasha serves as Hendrick’s events executor : she cultivates the unusual wherever she goes. The original plan was to become a journalist but the US economy had other plans….

HOC: Hey Sasha, when you started out in your career, where did you want it to go?

I was very adamant from a very young age that I was going to be a journalist and there was no other path for me. Growing up in a household as a first-generation American, my parents saw my dedication and motivation and supported me wholly in my single-minded focus.

I began to learn how to be more flexible with my career goals – and because of that, I managed to grow, learn and develop in ways that I hadn’t anticipated and am now so immensely grateful for.

At age 15, I thought that at age 30 I would be running my own print magazine in New York City. Instead I’m running around the UK (and sometimes the world), creating, tasting, teaching, learning, sharing, and just generally experiencing the unusual every single day. And I couldn’t be any happier if I tried.

HOC: What’s it like, being a woman in what we imagine is a male dominated industry?

I have found it is so crucial to seek out other intelligent, determined and powerful women in this industry to learn from them, glean incredibly insightful advice, and to always act as each other’s cheerleaders.

We are truly powerful when our voices and efforts are combined – so I cannot stress enough just how vital so many women from this industry have been to my personal journey and I am forever grateful to them. Further, I always hope I can pass on some of those same lessons and be a voice of encouragement to other women looking to pursue their career in this industry.

HOC: You are a woman after our own hearts and love to travel. Where’s the best spot for a few sundowners and snacks?

Here’s one of my most recent favourites and it’s a showstopper… Franco’s in Pyrgos, Santorini: this is not the classic Oia Caldera sunset spot… but has something so special, it feels unmissable. It’s located in a little mountain town that is slightly off the beaten track, and to enter the bar you need to wind your way up through the narrow alleys, through (what feels like) a nonna’s kitchen and head up to the stairs for a view that is nothing short of breathtaking. I had read this is the place for an “operatic sunset” and that is spot on: the emotionally manipulative opera music plays beautifully as you watch the sun go down whilst sipping on a simply and perfectly made Negroni.

Annie Pautsch, Brew Cruz scbrewcruz.com / visitsantacruz.org (full interview here)

Annie relishes wearing many hats in her Santa Cruz small business: if she’s done her best and can pop a cold one at the end of a long day over a sunset – this boss lady has nailed it.

HOC: What is it about craft breweries that you can’t get enough of?

The brewers and their unconventional curiosity and creativity. The smell, sound, attention to detail and taste. The environment, ambiance, and vibe. 7 days a week doors are open to everyone without exclusivity, offering a warm, comfortable place to imbibe, converse, relax, connect, and draw inspiration. The history of breweries- their individual stories and legacies.

HOC: What’s next for your business?

My goals for the business have always been in stages, so that I allow myself flexibility when things inevitably go off-course and you have to readjust. Initially I was thrilled just to have passengers on the bus! Now one of the aspects I’m most proud of in my career are the relationships I’ve carefully built and maintained, and the integrity and sincerity with which I’ve run my business. I never set out to expand too quickly, and have definitely made trajectory moves that feel natural and right for maintaining what Brew Cruz ultimately is- a local business.

HOC: Where is your favourite spot in the world for a few beers?

I have so many favourite breweries, so it ultimately comes down to sharing some of my favourite beers with the most cherished people in my life – family and close friends. Those are the golden moments, and most of them have taken place around a worn kitchen table, in a garage, or on a patio until the late hours of the night.

EmmaLi Stenhouse, Brand Ambassador sailorjerry.com (full interview here)

EmmaLi claims she has the coolest job in the world and loves what she does. She’s right when she says not many people can say that…

HOC: Hey EmmaLi, what the heck is a Brand Ambassador?

When I had the opportunity to combine my love of rum and my love of Sailor Jerry tattoos [as a Brand Ambassador], obviously I went for it. I didn’t really have much of a clue as to what a Brand Ambassador was, or what I was getting myself into at the time. So, I guess I had no real expectations of where it might go, which is maybe why I’m so grateful for where I’ve managed to get to so far.

I get to travel all around the UK, and sometimes beyond, talking to interesting people about Norman Sailor Jerry Collins, tattoos and rum. I mainly focus on education, trade, events and brand partnership. Every day is different.

HOC: Your job must take you on the road a lot ; where’s your favourite place for a rum cocktail in the UK?

That’s a tough one! I love a good dive bar, where you can get an ice cold beer and a Sailor Jerry daiquiri, with decent tunes on the juke box. Bunny Jackson’s Juke Joint in Manchester is one of the best, so is Slim Jim’s Liquor Store in Islington, London. But if you want something Tiki you cant go wrong in Smugglers Cove in Liverpool, tasty as hell!

HOC: Can you tell us about a recent ‘Girl Boss Moment’?

This is trivial but for years I always wished I could open a beer without a bottle opener. Like when someone uses a lighter or a jigger or a spoon or really any flat solid object. I was super jealous when other people could do it.

Someone finally showed me how to do it, and now every single time I open a beer I feel like a boss. Especially when it surprises a guy. Especially if that guy had just offered to open my beer for me!

Cheers to the girls #TeamCoco ’s drinks cabinet…

Ramborn Cider ramborn.com : Ramborn is the first Luxembourgish cider producer and over half of their team is made up of badass female including Chantal Hellers-Biseniusm, Head of Orchards.
Forest Gin forestgin.com : Lindsay Bond distills every drop of this locally sourced, Cheshire gin. No more than 85 bottles are distilled at any one time, so you should probably get your hands on one.
Fem:Ale fem.ale-festival.co.uk : Not a drink, but a festival, Fem:Ale breaks down stereotypes around beer, who makes it and who drinks it, by celebrating women in the brewing industry.
Leonista Agave Spirit leonista.co.nz : Founder Sarah’s vision for her South African brand is to be Patagonia of Liquor brands; a conscious company that tries to have more of a positive effect on the world and environment than a negative.
Wild Card Beer wildcardbrewery.co.uk : Badass female Jaega Wise leads the brewing team at this award winning London brewery, they also throw mean Vegan and Vintage markets.

Accessories November 25, 2018

The C-Word: No Nonsense Gift Guides: Won’t Somebody Please Think About The Children?

Some of you will love kids and enjoy trawling toyshops for the perfect gift for little Apple and Bear. Others, myself included, don’t really understand children and can’t stand buying some safe-option, soul-less item from Amazon Prime. If you are a reformed Grinch who wants to be generous this Christmas, this gift guide is for you!

Gift Certificates, London Music Box londonmusicbox.com

Gergana started London Music Box nearly 5 years ago when arriving in London with not much in her pockets. Always entrepreneurial, Gergana launched the business which now boasts a team of multicultural teachers who work with children and adults. London Music Box is inclusive and offers classes for students on the Autism Spectrum (ASD).

Gift vouchers start from as little as £10 and classes include all materials and flexible booking in a Central London location. You might end up launching the next little Elton John’s passion! Ask for royalties.

Not Just A Princess T Shirt, notjustaprincess.co.uk

We know you are fans of our Girl Bosses series here at House of Coco so share that feminist message with the young ladies in your life and encourage them to dream big! Entrepreneur and psychologist Jennifer Toll’s business Not Just A Princess has partnered with Inspiring Girls International charity on this range of t-shirts for aspirational young girls. From each sale of a t-shirt 12.5% is donated to Inspiring Girls International. Gift a shirt and head to the social enterprise’s online hub which details job profiles and information that challenges gender career related clichés and ignite that little girl’s hustle!

Pins, Stickers and Notebooks, novemberandmay.com

Adeline is a French graphic designer living in Paris and she just has the CUTEST products. All under £10, they would make the ideal stocking filler. We particularly love the AstroWitch and BotanistWitch items which would play super nicely with the above t-shirt to inspire little girls (and guys!) to reach their dreams.

Adeline works full time at an agency, so November and May is her creative outlet, allowing her to translate her imagination into tangible objects. Adeline has a passion for witches and magic, but the new collection, which will arrive at the beginning of December, is all about plants. One for you and one for the little one you are supposed to be shopping for, okay?

Girl Bosses of Great Britain November 25, 2018

The C-Word: No Nonsense Gift Guides: The Book Worm

We all know a Book Worm who reads tonnes, make us feel inferior and like we should stop watching F.R.I.E.N.D.S re-runs and pick up a book. Get one up on the Book Worm this Christmas by gifting them one of these top picks thanks to Rachel Wood, founder of Rare Birds Book Club (rarebirdsbookclub.com) .

Better still, sign yourself and your Book Worm Buddy up for Rachel’s online book club, for only £10/ month (1, 3, 6 and 12 month subscriptions available) rarebirdsbookclub.com/subscribe

All book recommendations by Rachel Wood and available to buy at rarebirdsbookclub.com/bookshelf

I’ll Eat When I’m Dead by Barbara Bourland

Get ready to step behind the glossy façade of RAGE Fashion Book, the most powerful magazine in the world. Its editors are competitive, smart, savvy, and polished to perfection – even the one found dead in her office. Cat Ono doesn’t really believe her friend Hillary starved to death. And when a (disturbingly handsome) detective named Mark Hutton turns up at her office asking questions, her suspicions are confirmed. But as Cat launches herself into the investigation and goes undercover, she quickly finds she’s in way in over her head. What starts as wildly entertaining whodunnit filled with glamour, sex, drugs and lies evolves into more. It’s a brilliant satire about women’s work and women’s bodies, which manages to skewer everything from high-fashion to Instagram celebrities with wit and flare. Perfect for fans of the Devil Wears Prada and Valley of the Dolls.

Party Girls Die in Pearls by Plum Sykes

Take the fashion of the eighties and mix it with the historic spires of Oxford, then add posh parties, colourful characters, secrets, rivalries, and the unexplained death of a glamorous socialite to the mix, and we’ve got the makings of a highly entertaining murder mystery. Party Girls Die in Pearls tells the story of wide-eyed country girl Ursula Flowerbutton as she arrives at Oxford University in 1985. She plans for a quiet year studying history. Instead, on the morning of her first tutorial she finds the body of a socialite on a chaise-lounge. Together with her new friend, American heiress Nancy Feingold, the two must piece together the mystery and find the killer living amongst them – all while chasing future Dukes, attending society balls and squeezing in late-night study sessions in the library, of course. This is a whodunnit to enjoy with a glass of bubbly in hand – there’s plenty of over-the-top decadence and intrigue to be had here, and the detailed descriptions of fashion make it all the more fabulous.

The Silent Companions by Laura Purcell

Take a creepy, crumbling house in the middle of nowhere, suspicions of witchcraft and a 200-year-old diary, and you have a gothic ghost story so subtly heart-stopping you’ll want to sleep with the lights on. After her husband’s unexpected death, Elsie Bainbridge trades the glittering lights of London for his family estate to see out her pregnancy. Life seems rather dull until the discovery of an unsettling painted wooden figure in a locked room sets off a chain of events that threatens to consume the whole household. It’s as thrilling as it is unexpected.

The Girl in The Tower by Katherine Arden

Medieval Russia in the dead of winter is a dangerous place, especially for a woman. But for Vasya it’s the only option. With the help of her enchanted horse Solovy and a haughty winter demigod, she sets out on a life of adventure living as a boy. Things get even more complicated when she joins forces with the Grand Prince of Moscow to outwit a gang of bandits roaming the countryside. There’s magic, intrigue, superstition, love, loyalty, royalty, betrayal and plenty of atmosphere. It’s a grown-up fairytale that perfectly suits the season.

Standard Deviation by Katherine Heiny

Graham and Audra are chalk and cheese. Audra is, to put it mildly, a force of nature; she knows everything about everyone, makes friends wherever she goes, and seems to have a limitless supply of energy. Graham on the other hand, is quiet, ordered – and 15 years Audra’s senior. After a chance encounter brings his ex-wife back into the picture, Graham has never been more aware of their differences. From courting other parents for playdates to the predictable (and unpredictable) ups and downs of marriage, Standard Deviation covers family life with tender wit and heart.

Goodbye, Vitamin by Rachel Khong

At a time when she’s meant to have it all figured out, Ruth’s has never felt less together. Her career is at a standstill and her fiance has left her for another woman. When her mother asks her to move back home to help care for her father, a brilliant but difficult history professor who’s recently been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, she can’t find a reason to say no. What follows is a charming novel about family and how even when things don’t go to plan, life can still surprise and delight you in ways you didn’t expect.

Brazil November 18, 2018

Girl Bosses of Great Britain : ‘Living The Dream’ with Natalia Bojanic of Form

You might find yourself, as 2018 draws to a close, thinking about your plans for the year ahead. According to recent research, 31st January is the day on which most Brits hand in their resignation…

To give you some fire and encouragement for you festive life planning, we spoke to Natalia Bojanic, the Creative Force and Brand Strategist at Form (formnutrition.com) She’s had a wild ride with her career so far and we’re excited to see what she does next.

We speak about being mindful at work, reinvention, the power of curiosity and Life Audits…

HOC: Natalia, reading your background you are such an inspirational slashie. Can you tell us about your journey to where you are today?

Natalia: Thank you. If anything in my background inspires you, know that if I can do it, so can you!

If I had to summarise my journey, I would say that it is definitely one of trial and error, learning how to trust my instincts, never giving up and remaining confident outside my comfort zone.

I am Brazilian, and I moved to London eleven years ago, after graduating with a degree in Journalism, to learn English. I arrived in a country barely speaking the language and managed to build a successful career in Communications.

I used to be a PR Director in the luxury industry working with brands from Land Rover to Dior. After seven years in the corporate world, I quit my job to follow my passion for wellness and went on a self-discovery journey to find out how I could benefit others.

As I didn’t really know what to do, I decided that educating myself was a good place to start, so I moved to the US and became a qualified Health Holistic Educator by the Hippocrates Health Institute; then moved back to the UK to study Naturopathic BioMedicine at CNM. In 2016, I moved to India and got my certification as a Yoga instructor. I am also a meditation teacher with wide-ranging training, from spending time in a monastery in Nepal to attending Search Inside Yourself Leadership Institute teacher training – a program born at Google.

These days, I divide my time between being the Creative Force and Brand Strategist at Form (formnutrition.co.uk) – Naturally Advanced Plant-Based Nutrition for Body & Mind, passing on knowledge on wise leadership workshops or helping people cultivate healthy states of mind in my meditation app called Sexy Mind.

Some people might think that I am living the dream. In reality, I now have the freedom to choose what challenges I wish to conquer, and which opportunities are fun to chase.

In a few words, I am a life juggler who is trying to do good in the world!

HOC: How have your skills and ambitions been realised in Form?

Natalia: At Form, we believe that you can realise the greatest version of yourself while being mindful of others. This permeates through everything we do, from careful selection of ingredients to donating a meal to a family in need in The Gambia and supporting the education of young girls in India.

When I decided to reinvent myself, I had one certainty in mind: I wanted to help people, but I had no idea what I could do to have a positive impact in their lives. I was passionate about Plant-Based Nutrition and about the living proof of the positive effects reducing animal protein intake has for overall wellbeing and for the health of the planet.

Luckily, Damian Soong, CEO & Co-Founder found me when he was in the early stages of setting up Form, so he gave me the incredible opportunity of being part of it. When we started working on the brand’s vision & values, I had no idea that within a year of launching that we would be where we are now; bestselling brand in Planet Organic, featured in publications from Tatler to The Daily Telegraph and most importantly making a difference to vulnerable lives in The Gambia and North India.

HOC: We are always running around the world, exploring. What do we need to be of mindful of when we travel?

Natalia: Choose a healthy state of mind!

I recently returned from The Gambia, visiting the Bansang Hospital that Form supports with nutritional aid. We were in the poorest area in one of the poorest countries in Africa. As a fussy eater (vegan, gluten-free, low-sugar, non-processed food diet), the most nutritious, fresh meal I had was a carrot salad! I won’t lie, I did struggle, but it was a great opportunity to exercise my adaptation muscles and appreciate what was available instead of complaining about it. As a result, a deep sense of gratitude for life arose. I have never been so grateful for having Kind snack bars and protein shakes with me!

Before visiting The Gambia, I was in LA and San Francisco, locations where I love spending time, indulging in healthy eateries, exploring new classes at Soul Cycle, and spend time in the sunshine and connecting with brilliant meditation teachers. Making time to have fun and to practice self-care is not a luxury, but a necessity if we wish to reach peak form.

My only non-negotiable health ritual, no matter where I am, is a good night’s sleep, which I can do anywhere in the world.

HOC: Could you share more about the Leadership program you are part of?

Natalia: I am currently on the final stages of the year-long teacher training with Search Inside Yourself Leadership Institute (SIYLI), a program born at Google in 2007 and developed by the thought leaders in the market in Emotional Intelligence, Neuroscience and Mindfulness.

The course teaches skills that lead to sustained peak performance, strong collaboration and effective leadership. SIYLI increases self-awareness, empathy, communication and resilience. All of these help to create positive emotional and mental states for a strong and inspiring leadership presence.

The program includes sessions on: mindfulness (the science of being present), self-awareness (understanding your thoughts, emotions and habits), self-management (skillfully managing your impulses and reactions), motivation (aligning your values and work), empathy (understanding others’ feelings and experiences) and leadership (influencing with compassion).

HOC: What does Form’s partnership with Heathrow VIP mean for the future?

Natalia: We are very excited with the partnership with Heathrow VIP (read more about Heathrow VIP here in our interview with Priya, head of VIP). When we set up Form, our objective was to make healthy eating and plant-based nutrition available to a wider audience, not only restricted to the fitness enthusiasts.

Responding to the growing global travel trend for wellness, the exclusive VIP service’s luxury menu will feature a range of bespoke dishes that incorporate Form’s nutrient dense plant-based proteins, all designed to make eating well an effortless part of travel. We were really impressed with the Heathrow VIP Chef’s creations. The Matcha Chia Pot is one of my favourite options and we can’t wait to see the new recipes they come up with as the menu will change on a monthly basis.

We know that over the past year, Heathrow VIP has seen a surge in international clients who seek healthier travel experiences with an increase in requests for vegetarian and vegan options, so our new partnership will help make travel even healthier than before.

It’s exciting to see luxury travel catering for the demands of a wellness-conscious audience and we are delighted to keep evolving the partnership and bringing more protein-rich, nutrient dense food to the Heathrow VIP menu to help travellers nourish themselves pre-flight.

HOC: What’s a recent ‘Girl Boss’ moment you’ve had?

Natalia: Holding a baby in a very deprived village in The Gambia who is no longer malnourished due to the Form Feeding Fund.

HOC: Do you believe in New Year’s Resolutions and if so, what’s yours for 2019?

Natalia: I firmly believe in everyday resolutions since I started to consciously create my days and managed to turn my life around.

The statement ‘how you live your days is how you live your life’ is something I am constantly reminding myself to ensure I create resolutions and opportunities to use my skills and strengths in a meaningful way on a daily basis.

I don’t think that it is productive to wait for the New Year to start living the life we aspire to live. Having said that, for the past 4 years in January, I do a Life Audit (sexymind.co.uk/blog/2018/1/4/its-time-for-a-life-audit exercise) to assess my priorities, motivations and goals and have it hanging in my bedroom as a constant reminder of what I am here to be.

Accessories August 14, 2018

#GBOGB : Back to the Future with Eco Fashion from Peony Vintage

Here at House Of Coco we love stories and whenever we travel, we aim to uncover the tales beneath the instagrammable sights we snap. Our love of great stories extends to this Girl Boss series where, over the past few years, we’ve heard from incredible women making their mark and elevating other women around them.

Georgie is a fantastic example of a woman doing both of these things. She’s a true multi-hyphenate working across her own brand, Peony Vintage (peonyvintage.com), supporting other small businesses and also styling for fashion and commercial shoots. This autumn she’s launching her innovative new subscription box which is jammed packed with stories and nostalgia…plus, did we mention?! Her shop is the perfect pink palace in the heart of Margate’s Old Town: book those train tickets now!

HOC: Hey Georgie, so great to meet you! Tell us a bit about Peony Vintage and your journey from opening the business to launching your subscription box?

Georgie: I wanted to turn something I enjoy into something which can be shared for others and Peony Vintage is just that. Peony Vintage is a Margate based vintage brand specialising in women’s original vintage clothing and a carefully curated accessories edit. We are for women who create their own trends and are happy to give a nod to times gone by in their attire. We have grown enormously in two years!

Since opening the physical store in the heart of Margate , online stores have been opened, I’ve exhibited at London fairs and started my own career as a freelance stylist for costume and fashion, which is amazing. I’ve also design and make vintage inspired acrylic jewellery which is available in store and online. The subscription box has come from a place of loving good old fashioned post. It’s a nostalgic thing to receive love letters so why can’t we send them to ourselves with original vintage treats inside?

HOC: Couldn’t agree more! It’s so nice to receive post that isn’t from the tax man…. There are so many subscription boxes on the market at the moment. What does yours offer that we can’t get elsewhere?

Georgie: I haven’t seen any subscription boxes that are in the UK and deliver quality original vintage and retro inspired accessories so this is where mine comes in! This box delivers a nostalgic nod and bundle of smiles every month, with so much detail in the literature inside too.

All items have been personally sourced and handpicked by me and packaged up for lovely souls to open. Pieces range from original hairpins to handmade necklaces, earrings, screen printed totes and belts.Some pieces of my own jewellery range are also included. It’s only £19.99 per month, with some boxes having a retail value of £40. It’s one box per month and each dedicated to one particular era.

As it stands, this is only a 4 month subscription at the moment so can be gifted and also won’t feel like a lifetime gym membership for those subscribers that do fancy treating themselves. One box per month is dedicated to one particular era.

HOC: Wow. Sounds like so much work has gone into these and we love the sneak peeks of the inserts in this photo above! What makes vintage so important to you?

Georgie: Vintage is so important for style, fashion and reducing waste! People underestimate the impact fast and throwaway fashion can have and by buying true vintage clothing you not only know it’s been made to last, or made in a time where things were valued more, but you know it’s not been made in a sweatshop.

You won’t walk down the street in the same item as someone else, and it won’t be something you then are told by various media sources or shop windows that that item has ‘gone out of fashion’. With vintage you create your own trends, your own style, your own you.

HOC: Who is the ideal Peony Vintage customer?

Georgie: Ummm…I guess someone who is open to try new things or OLD things. No pun intended! Haha.

HOC: You clearly have a wealth of knowledge about vintage style. If someone wanted to learn more about vintage clothing and style how would you recommend them getting stuck in?

Georgie: For me, I’ve more or less grown up around vintage clothing as I was around a lot of musical theatre when I was younger. Shows like Sunset Boulevard and Phantom of the Opera have really inspired me and my outlook on fashion. Influences and knowledge can come from all different sources: for instance, I love Mad Men and I listen to Fleetwood Mac. Inspiration is all around us but as for one recommendation, I’d say get a book called ‘The Vintage Fashion Sourcebook’ : this was my bible when I first started.

HOC: And finally, can you tell us about a recent ‘Girl Boss moment’ you’ve had?

Georgie: To be honest, any time someone tells me the shop is beautiful or I make a sale is a ‘Girl Boss’ moment for me. When someone comes in and doesn’t buy anything but says how much they love the store this means just as much to me. It means my vision makes people happy. I love watching people smile about the past or hear a squeal of joy from the changing room when they try something on that makes them feel beautiful.

The Peony Vintage Subscription Box launches in September with the 1930s box and a few remaining boxes are available for pre-order now!

The subscription lasts for 4 months so is the perfect treat at £19.99 a month with a value of up to £40 per box. Each box is designed and hand packed to bring life to a specific era of the 30s, 40s, 50s and 60s. Each month is a surprise with at least 2 original vintage items and a retro inspired piece of jewellery designed and handmade by Georgie, complete with fun facts.

To snap up your box head to peonyvintage.com/subscription-box