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Neill Strain Floral Couture

10 Questions with Sharon Lillywhite, Founder & Creative Director of Oliver Burns Studio

01

Where is your favourite travel destination and why? 

For romance, you can’t beat Italy. I love everything Italian - the scenery, architecture, food and their sense of style. I couldn’t choose between Palazzo Avino in Ravello on the Amalfi Coast, or Hotel Splendido in Portofino; both are equally fabulous. La dolce vita!

I’ve also been fortunate enough to spend many holidays in the Maldives. As soon as you step onto the seaplane and fly over its crystal-clear waters, you witness a view unlike any other. The hospitality is also best in class, from the way you are welcomed to how they pay attention to every meticulous detail, you are made to feel so special and it’s truly a magical place. Every time I visit, it helps me to re-centre, and I always come back to the studio feeling re-energised.

02

What is your most memorable holiday?

Over the years, I’ve made so many amazing, fun memories with family and friends, and I spend a large part of my summer with them in Portugal. Although I’m mostly working remotely, I do get some downtime to spend evenings with my nearest and dearest. Making memories here is something that I treasure.

03

What is your favourite season?

As much as I love al fresco dining on a balmy summer evening, my favourite season is actually autumn. It’s still warm, and the evenings are light—perfect for gorgeous, cosy walks to admire the landscape as it changes into its stunning autumnal palette.

04

Where in London do you go to let your hair down?

We’re spoilt for choice in London, but my new favourite hangout has to be Maison Estelle. It’s very luxurious, but has a relaxed vibe. I often head up to the roof terrace for client meetings and then catch up with friends over lunch or dinner.

05

Describe your perfect day in London?

I like getting up early, and if it’s a sunny day in London, I’ll take a nice walk. It’s the best way to discover hidden places and much nicer than driving around the city. One of my favourite walks is along St James's Park, where you can see some beautiful homes and stunning architecture, all while getting in my step count! If the weather isn’t as nice, I’d head to Soul Cycle to take a spin class – it’s a great way to wake up and leaves me feeling energised for the day ahead. After I’ve worked up an appetite, I’d have breakfast at The Wolseley, followed by an exhibition. I really love any fashion-related exhibitions, and I’m looking forward to going to Fragile Beauty at the V&A. I’d round off the day with a late lunch/early supper at Cecconi’s, then finish up with cocktails at Maison Estelle.

06

Where in London do you recommend for a first date?

I’d suggest the Vesper Bar at The Dorchester, it’s a small intimate space where you’re guaranteed to enjoy great food, excellent service, and a relaxed yet elegant atmosphere.


07

What is your favourite flower?

I have a love affair with the English garden. When we were creating our House of Walpole apartment, which lies adjacent to Buckingham Palace, I spent a lot of time researching the gardens and taking inspiration from the incredible flora. Our concept of ‘A love letter to the Palace Gardens’ paid homage to the history and beauty found there. Although it is home to many exotic plants and unusual flowers, I still think that you can’t beat a classic peony. Not only is it so beautiful when it suddenly bursts into bloom, but it also fills your home with the most incredible scent.

08

If you could send flowers to only one person each week, who would that be and why?

It would have to be my team. We all love having fresh flowers in the studio and the delivery would be a reminder of my appreciation for their hard work.

09

What is your favourite film of all time? 

It would have to be a classic romcom like Bridget Jones Diary or The Holiday – an easy watch for a belly laugh and feel good-factor!

10

Do you have a favourite book or author?

Every day I dip in and out of Wise Words for Women by Donna Lancaster, which I cannot recommend highly enough. I’ve known Donna for a long time and she has helped me change my life for the better.

 
Instagram: @oliver_burns