“Loads of lovely new pieces arriving, including personalised panamas and new style boaters with beautiful silk bands.”Founder of Beauabea, Katie on what’s new at the brand
New Irish business, Beauabea is described by founder Katie as a “love story of style and sass” and, with its carefully curated selection of sartorial accessories, it’s proving just how true that description is. Although a relatively young business, you can immediately recognise Katie’s innate sense of style and penchant for accessories that breathe a luxury, bohemian spirit and vibe. I’m already quite taken with the brand’s Hello Weekend Tote Bag, Port Soller Earrings and Santorini Fedora Hat (the list could go on…), all perfect for whisking away as you jet-set off on holiday to azure skies and tranquil seas. During our interview she writes that “you know its funny, I wasn’t going to launch my business and I lacked self-confidence and to be brutally honest I was afraid of what people would think. Thankfully something in my head told me to do it and I am so glad I did.” And, we’re so pleased you did to.
Photography by Bethany Chisholm Photography
Location Magheramorne Estate
#1 Provide us with three words that sum-up how you were feeling about lockdown when it first started, and then three words about how you feel now:
Before: “Strange, creative and slightly frightened.”
After: “Grateful, happy and excited.”
#2 What time do you get up? Did this change in lockdown? Was life a little slower? Talk to us about your usual daily routine and how this was changed by lockdown…
“Usually I wake up around 6am every morning. I am a terrible sleeper and find it very difficult to switch off. This didn’t change much during lockdown (I wish it did). I have two children – Pixie aged seven and Layla Beau aged 12 – so the glorious life of homeschool started on such a good note, but then it was a disaster! I also work three days a week so, with that combined with homeschool and every other hour on Beauabea, lets just say some days were eventful.
But, I did do quite a bit of pilates and yoga and switched off when I knew I needed to and listened to podcasts and books on audible (I have no patience for reading books!!)”
#3 How did lockdown impact your business, and how can people (brides/the wedding industry) support you now?
“To be honest my business was only launched on the 24th May this year. I was taking such a chance as I was aware peoples shopping habits would change. But, you know its funny, I wasn’t going to launch my business and I lacked self-confidence and to be brutally honest I was afraid of what people would think. Thankfully something in my head told me to do it and I am so glad I did.
I feel pieces from my collection would suit a boho style bride and many pieces would be excellent for honeymoon style accessories. Including my Cadiz Panama and my Santorini Fedora.”
#4 Name three local businesses/small Instagram businesses you are supporting or would like to support more…
No.1 “@suzie.ayu – an incredible business woman, a brilliant friend and superbly talented. She is the owner of the brand Ayu which works to enhance natural beauty with simple everyday essentials.”
No.2 “@millson_and_berry – ‘wedding floral designers, flowers created with love.'”
No.3 “@olivias_haven – luxury soy candles and melts ‘bringing you a fragrant haven from my world to yours.'”
#5 What is/what was your favourite isolation snack?
“I’m partial to Tayto Cheese & Onion crisps, they are so good and I do love a cheese board.”
#6 Before lockdown eased slightly, what was your most recommended quarantine pick-me-up when you were feeling down?
“I really enjoy going horse racing as my other half is a racehorse trainer, but fun fact I enjoy the point to points more, not sure why just always a nice atmosphere and the style is more relaxed.”
#7 What’s the strangest thing that’s happened during your lockdown period…
“My husband learned how to use the washing machine and even managed to cook for the first time…”
#9 Favourite app for keeping in touch digitally with friends and family?
“FaceTime and WhatsApp.”
#10 Name your lockdown hate:
“Not being able to see family and friends!!”
#11 Name your lockdown love:
“Family time and enjoying the time with my children (most days!!). Cooking – I love to cook and organising our home properly.”
#12 The person(s) you will hug first when social distancing is no longer in place?
“My mum.”
#13 An act of kindness towards you that you’ve really appreciated during lockdown?
“My amazing circle of friends and family for supporting me and making me launch Beauabea.”
#14 Talk to us about what’s new at your brand?
“Loads of lovely new pieces arriving, including personalised panamas and new style boaters with beautiful silk bands.”
#15 Name three things the lockdown has made you grateful for:
No.1 “Slowing down in life.”
No.2 “Without a doubt – appreciating life.”
No.3 “Creating my business.”
#16 Which restaurant will you dine at first once restrictions are lifted?
“Um tough one, Yugo Belfast (I love) and Mournes Seafood (I adore seafood).”
#17 What series have you now completed on Netflix? Any recommendations?
“The Stranger, Queen of the South and Michelle Obama’s documentary, Becoming.”
#18 What would be on your quarantine book list?
“How To be an Overnight Success by Maria Hatzistefanis
#19 For a little Instagram-escapism, what three accounts would you recommend?
“A difficult one, but I have to say I follow the following and always look at there stories :
#20 Name three things you bought online during lockdown.
No.1 “Summer Fridays’ Jet Lag Mask“
No.2 “The Zara bodysuit that I am pretty sure half the world have!!”
No.3 “Le Labo perfume.”
#21 What was your ‘lockdown’ outfit most day
“Quite casual, usually jeans, t shirt/shirt, a sweatshirt and Vejas/Superga trainers. I wore heels a few weeks ago, so strange but felt good.”
#22 And, finally, your quarantine cocktail/tipple of choice?
“Er, Shortcross gin, its insanely good and a good friend makes killer Pornstar Martinis.”
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