I’m at an age where I’m starting to enjoy drinking tea at home, either on my own or with friends. I clearly remember an episode of Oprah where she explained how much she enjoyed ending the day drinking tea from her gorgeous tea set. For some silly reason this stuck with me and as soon as I could afford it, I went out and bought myself a beautiful Noritake tea set. The only problem was that I found Noritake teapots too conservative and wanted a teapot that was feminine and elegant. I was excited to come across this teapot in Myer by Cristina Re that matched my Noritake set perfectly.
I loved my new teapot so much that I jumped online to find out more about the brand. I was thrilled to discover it was designed by Cristina Re, a local designer based in Collingwood. Not only does she design chick, playful and elegant homewares, she also designs speciality stationary that is very exquisite.
I was lucky enough to meet Cristina at her head office. It was a lovely surprise to see how decorated the entrance was to her office. You really get a sense of who and what the brand is about simply by waiting in the reception area. I appreciate it when companies go to this extent to make sure that their waiting room or reception area is highly decorated leaving that person talking about it to others.
I had no idea what to expect when meeting with Cristina. I can say this though, as soon as we sat down to talk I was impressed at how passionate she was about her designs but also how genuine and easy she was to speak with.
Here is my interview with the very talented and creative Cristina Re.
1. Where do you draw your inspiration from?
My inspiration comes from a myriad of sources. Fashion and interior design from Europe, Asia and USA and flora and fauna constantly inspire my original prints and patterns.
2. If you could invite anyone in the world to high tea who would it be and why?
Ellen Degeneres and Portia De Rossi. I Love Ellen and have always envisaged what it must be like to work with her. She’s incredible – funny,generous and kind – always wanting to help those less fortunate then herself. She’s married to an Australian – what’s not to love about that! I must say I also love Sarah Jessica Parker because I’m a huge fan of SITC -she has such a timeless style and is lovely inside and out.
3. Who is/are your favourite designer/s and why?
Kelly Wearsler and Jonathan Adler for interior design and I’m a sucker for European couture. To name a few – Chloe, Prada and Chanel inspire my collections.
4. What was the very first thing you ever designed under the Cristina Re brand?
Greeting cards and letter writing sets.
5. What has been the key to the success of your brand?
Hard work, determination, belief in myself, being fearless, having great vision, being intuitive and passionate about creating beautiful things to make people feel good which is what I always hope for my customers when they purchase any of my designs.
Do you own anything from her collection?
