I met Wendy from ilovebokkie through a friend and earlier this year she became one of my first clients and a wonderful client she has been! Her work is truly inspiring and I am excited to feature her today!
What is ilovebokkie all about?
ilovebokkie is a kid’s brand which creates kids spaces, furniture and lovelies. It is an eco-aware, true to South Africa, antidote to "made in china" kids brand. I also like to describe it as "for the young and young at heart" as some of the products are not just for the kiddos, there’s a blurring of the boundary between adult and kids with some of the products. I have also recently added a "Finders Keepers" banner to the Shop page. Here I sell “previously loved” kids lovelies, my way of creating a little nostalgia and bringing back some childhood memories for us grown-ups.
And what about Sketchbok?
Sketch Bok/DBN is a design and decor studio. I mainly design and decorate residential interiors. This includes everything from designing kitchen, bathrooms and built in cupboards, working with carpenters and other manufacturers, to specifying finishes such as flooring, wall finishes etc. Then there’s the decor side which focuses on soft furnishings such as putting together fabric schemes, window coverings, wallpapers, furniture, objet d'art etc. I also get involved in project managing small renovations. I design homes that reflect the client’s lifestyle and is true to who they are. Interior Design in my absolute passion and i LOVE what id do!
How do you separate your thoughts into ilovebokkie creativity and the interior work you do for Sketchbok? Or do you feel the flow is seamless?
Sketch Bok/DBN has become my 9-5 and ilovebokkie sort of fits in between. I mostly work on new products for ilovebokkie on the weekends when I’m a little more relaxed, but ideas don’t stick to a schedule, so they do pop up at the strangest times. I just juggle the two! I suppose it is seamless in a way.
What lead you to owning your own creative business?
I wanted to get recognition for my designs and I wanted more freedom of time so I could spend more time with my now 2 year old son, Rylee.
What are your top tips for being your own boss? Be Organised, disciplined and I always have a to-do list! Cannot function without them. And never lose the passion for what you are doing and what you love.
What is a perfect Christmas like in your household?
Just being surrounded by those you love. Earlier this year my sister (who is my best friend) relocated to Joburg and my father past away from cancer, so family time has become so very important to me and I really treasure our time together.
Are there new products and ideas that we can we look forward to in 2012?
I’m in the process of creating a kids rocker, cool ottomans, chair slipcovers and growth charts. So watch this space! Plus there’s a whole furniture range by Sketch Bok/DBN on the horizon!
Wendy from ilovebokkie is giving away four of her beautiful Christmas decorations. They are so pretty that they will look good in your home all year round!
All you have to do is follow the ilovebokkie blog and leave a comment here to mention that you have followed.
This is an international giveaway.
Closing date: Monday 19th December.
Good luck!
All you have to do is follow the ilovebokkie blog and leave a comment here to mention that you have followed.
This is an international giveaway.
Closing date: Monday 19th December.
Good luck!