Bringing colour and inspiration from far flung destinations, we caught up with award-winning designer, Sara Miller, and found her to be as enchanting as her bold and bright luxury bed linen.
When did you first discover your love for colourful design?
For as long as I can remember, I have had an obsession with print, pattern and colour; I have always been happiest when I'm tucked away with a sketch book. My Mum will tell me about the hours I spent as a child sitting at my red Fisher Price table with my pad of paper, colour pencils and a big imagination!
I’ve always loved exploring new colour combinations and creating something unexpected. After 8 years working as a greeting card designer, I decided it was time to set up on my own and I wanted to create a range of products that truly challenged the norm. I wanted the range to be uplifting and add an element of the unexpected into everyday life. I can say with confidence that I’m as passionate about design now as I was when I first started out, and am always looking to offer something fresh and unique.
Where do you get your inspiration from?
Travel is a great passion of mine and India has to be one of my favourite places. I visited India for the first time a few years ago and absolutely fell in love with the country. From the decorative henna work to the embellished textiles and intricate craftsmanship in palaces of Jaipur, these sights have been imprinted on my memory and have been a huge source of inspiration in my work.
What is a typical working day like for you?
It’s hard to describe a typical working day for me because no two days are the same in our studio; I could be doing anything from designing or reviewing new product samples to writing copy, reviewing budgets or training new members of the team. I learnt very quickly that starting your own business means you’ve got to do it all – including all the bits you don’t enjoy. There’s always more to do and there will never be enough hours in the day to get everything done.
You’ve won many awards and collaborated with some iconic brands – what’s been your real ‘pinch yourself’ moment since founding Sara Miller London?
Oooh, there are so many. I’m very proud of how far we have come in just 4 years! We have a range of nearly 1000 products, distribution into 60 countries, and have 25 award nominations to our name. My personal favourite moment was winning ‘Best Licensed Fashion or Talent Brand 2018’ at The Brand and Lifestyle Licensing Awards, only two years after we launched. To be nominated alongside the likes of David Beckham, Matthew Williamson and Paul Hollywood were a real ‘pinch me’ moment in itself, but to actually win the award was indescribable!
There are numerous professional milestones over the last 4 years of which I’m really proud. On a personal level, I’m also the proud mum of a gorgeous little girl! Juggling mum and work life is another challenge in itself.
You travel to some wonderful destinations. When travelling, what do you miss most about your home?
The team and I recently went on an inspiration trip to India. Of course, the thing I missed most about home was my gorgeous little girl and lovely husband!
Where is your favourite destination for inspiration and ideas?
I have always been inspired by my adventures around the globe and have a passion for discovering different cultures. Our collections allow our customers to share in this by bringing a little bit of the exotic into their lives, escaping the everyday – I have already mentioned my love affair with India but Japan would have to be another favourite especially during the cherry blossom season.
What’s on the cards for 2020?
We have a lot of exciting launches in the works. From expanding our existing collections to continue to expand our range of home furnishings including bedding and cushions, towels and blinds, in collaboration with Ashley Wilde Group. Watch this space!
Which three French Bedroom Company products do you love most?
Tough choice! I love the La Chapelle French Style Mirror: the antiquated finish and shell motif provides a bountiful texture and adds a real touch of character to a space. The Provencal Sassy White French Bed is another stunning product, luxurious and timeless. Otherwise, the Palais de Versailles Gold Gilt Dressing Table is absolutely steeped in opulence and, even though it reminds me of seventeenth and eighteenth century France, doesn’t feel out of place in a contemporary bedroom.
Quick Fire:
- Tea or Coffee? Tea!
- Beach or Mountains? Mountains.
- Yoga or Spin? Spin.
- Night Owl or Morning Person? Night Owl.
You can see Sara's beautiful bed linen and velvet cushion as part of our luxurious bed linen and bedroom cushion collection. Feel free to contact our in-house stylists for ideas on how to style Sara Miller's designs in your very own boudoir with our luxury French furniture and beautiful beds.
