As you probably know by now, I am a huge fan of London Gifties. I absolutely love Kristine's attention to detail with packaging and the beautiful journaling supplies that she stocks. I'm so excited to share this interview with you.
Please could you tell me about your journey and how you got to be running London Gifties?
I started the shop by simply offering stickers with designs that I could not find to buy from anywhere else. Then, it expanded, bit by bit - I wanted to offer a gathering of stationery I loved myself, but sometimes found hard to find. I wanted to curate a shop, where one would be able to find all kinds of interesting, handmade and specialist stationery, from big and small creators and brands, all in one place. I never thought I would get so lucky to be supported by so many lovely customers to make my dream come true!
I would love to know what a “typical” day looks like for you
I try to get up early and start work in my office after making a cup of coffee. I start every day with making a list in my Hobonichi Techo, a simple list, where I jot down the tasks for the day and choose a maximum of 3 that I prioritize. Then, I crack on! In a typical day, I would be packing orders, designing new products, contacting new brands and designers whose products I would like to stock, mulling watercolour paints, looking for inspiration, replying to emails, paying bills (yay!), doing a bit of admin work (I actually enjoy it quite a bit!).
Most days, I like to plan for interesting things like vintage fairs, visiting antique shops, sourcing new products and nature walks, where I get a lot of inspiration for my designs and watercolour tones.
I like to end my days, after I am done with work, with gym, journaling and food! :)
What exciting plans do you have coming up?
I am working on a couple of my own designs, for washi tapes, wooden stamps and some completely new products!
Is there anything you could tell us about yourself that not many people know?
Even though I live in the UK, I am not English. You might have noticed that by my grammar mistakes :D
What do you look for when deciding which products to include in your range?
I always only offer products I would (and do!) use myself, that's pretty much it! I do not believe in offering anything I do not absolutely love myself.
How did you get started with journaling?
I have been journaling or keeping a diary since I was in middle school, I think. Going back to those journals really brings a smile to my face and lots of embarrassed laughter. Ever since then, I have been exploring journals and found joy in cramming them full of my silly chicken scratch :)
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
I enjoy the gym, good food - either cooked at home or eating out, nature, exploring new locations around the UK. I love visiting animal rescues and sanctuaries, and nature centres, and learning more.
What are your favourite journaling supplies to use?
Well.. it must be washi and stickers! And ephemera. Either vintage or collected from the day and activities I have done that day. And colour markers. It is very hard to choose, as it is always a mess on my table while I journal!
Who and what inspires you?
I am inspired by nature, mainly. And vintage, once used things.
Do you have any guilty pleasures?
It would have to be stationery shopping :D
I hope you've enjoyed reading all about Kristine as much as I have. I will leave links below of all the places you can find her.
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