LOUISE PASCAL, COCOLULU DESIGNS
Support independent businesses and meet the creatives making waves in the interiors world. This month, we’re talking handmade Christmas decorations for that festive finishing touch
Who doesn’t love Christmas traditions? A lush, bushy tree with precious baubles on the branches; pretty place settings at a festive dinner table; glowing candles twinkling away on a mantelpiece…these are the things memories are made of.
Which is why handmade Christmas decorations, lovingly crafted from clay, felt, wood, fabric, metal or paper, are so meaningful. Add in the fact they’re usually a more sustainable option and can often be personalised, and it’s no wonder we are increasingly choosing to shop small for unique designs to be displayed in our homes year after year.
This month, we’re highlighting three of our favourite independent designers creating beautiful Christmas decorations – starting with Louise Pascal, whose merry and bright handpainted pieces will add a splash of cheerful colour to your celebrations…
Q Can you describe your business in a sentence?
A Icreate decorations, gifts and homeware to make you smile, celebrating gatherings and making memories through the joy of colour.
Q How did you get to the point of having your own business?
A I was born and raised – by a Chinese mother and English father – in Hong Kong, but moved to the UK when I was 18, and studied for a degree in embroidery. I worked in fashion, but I’ve always loved to sketch and paint, and when all I could think about was my next craft project, I realised it was time to take the leap and set out on my own. I DIYed my whole wedding in 2019, so I know how incredible it feels when every little detail of a product or event comes together, and how much happiness it can bring. I decided to create that with Cocolulu – things that could be cherished for years to come. I’d always made Christmas decorations for friends; I started by selling those, and it spiralled from there. I now make everything from painted tapered candles to baubles and fabric napkins.
Q What’s your favourite thing about what you do?
A When someone asks me for a bespoke product. I’m really flexible and always try to make anything possible. An Australian lady recently sent me a photograph of her favourite bright, colourful Christmas tablecloth, and I made napkins and painted baubles to match it. It was crazy to think someone liked my work so much they were willing to place an order from the other side of the world!
Q What has been your proudest moment so far?
A When the social media star Zoe Sugg bought some of my produc
