We take a peak in the handbag of Katie Nelstrop of The English Whisky Co and Breckland Lodge, as she juggles family businesses and a new baby.
Katie Nelstrop is not only busy working for two family businesses, she became a mum for the first time last year. So she has only just replaced the bulky changing bag for something a little but more adult.
“For the past 10 months since having Sofie, all I have used is a big nappy bag, but recently I thought that actually the time might be right to get my handbag out again. I still have baby wipes, an emergency Ella’s Kitchen food pouch, a nappy and her favourite toy giraffe of course, but now I also have my favourite tan Mulberry bag as well,” she says. “I bought it years ago and it has been the best investment as I have used it non-stop; it’s just fantastic.”
Katie, who lives at Roundham, works for both her husband Andrew’s business, The English Whisky Co, and her father Mervyn’s hotel and restaurant business, Breckland Lodge, both near Attleborough.
“I look after all the marketing of both but there is always a lot more to do and I end up doing all sorts. I just work when I can around Sofie and don’t know the meaning of maternity leave.”
Tom Ford Jennifer sunglasses, from £160.
I am a real sunglasses addict and have loads of pairs in my car. I nearly always buy Ray-Bans but my new favourites are Tom Ford. I was persuaded to buy them from my friend at Ginger in Norwich and she was right, I love them.
Bare Minerals, Warmth All-Over Bronzer, £19, Debenhams.
I couldn’t live without my bronzer. It gives me an instant glow which I need as I look very washed out after so many sleepless nights at the moment. I love Bare Minerals, it is excellent quality and feels really natural.
iPhone 4, prices vary.
I am lost without my phone, although at the moment, the screen is smashed as Sofie got hold of it and dropped it. I use it for everything – to update social media for both businesses, to record interesting ideas on menus, to answer emails, to talk and to take family photos.
Rimmel Soft Kohl black eye pencil, £2.99.
It has been a staple in my make-up bag for years and I use it every day. It is cheap and cheerful, but undoubtedly my favourite eyeliner. It makes me look a little more awake.
Mulberry Agenda, classic black, £895.
This was a present for my 18th birthday from my father, so it is 18 years old and I must point out, that back then it was nowhere near the price it is now. No matter what technology I have, I cannot be without my personal organiser, it has my life in it and is incredibly treasured.
A little something else ...
Chapter 6 English Whisky, from the English Whisky Company, 20cl, £20.
So many people don’t know about English Whisky so I always keep a small bottle in my bag to pour little samples when I am meeting clients. People say it can’t be good single malt whisky if it comes from Norfolk, so I like to be able to prove them wrong. I do have to explain to people why I keep a bottle of whisky in my handbag though!
English Whisky Co, Harling Road, Roudham, NR16 2QW; 01953 717939; www.englishwhisky.co.uk
Breckland Lodge, London Road, Attleborough, NR17 1AY; 01953 455202; www.brecklandlodge.co.uk
