August 03, 2011

Interview with Henrietta Askew, founder and owner of Mai Pearls

I recently interviewed Henrietta Askew, founder and owner of Mai Pearls, to find out more about the person behind the beautiful designs. These are some of her answers.

When did you start Mai Pearls?

Henrietta: May 2005 was my first sale – I had a very small table, really a card table sized table at Badminton Horse Trials.

Why did you start the company?

Henrietta: I lived and studied in Beijing for a year before and when I returned to the UK to look for a job I was not sure what job I wanted to do but I did know that I wanted to stay connected with my time and experience in China and with the Chinese people. It took a little while to realize that what I really wanted to do was to start up my own business.

What was you background before Mai Pearls? Was it in jewellery design?

Henrietta: No, I studied History of Art and Chinese language at university. I am a quick learner!

What are your main inspirations for the jewellery?

Henrietta: I am mainly inspired by the catwalk colours along with designs that I see around me in magazines, being worn or in shop windows. My suppliers are very inspiring as well, they have loads of pearls and stones in their workshops for me to play around with whilst I am creating a new design.

What is your favorite thing about Mai Pearls?

Henrietta: There are 2 things; the charity that I support – it does great things. Once a year I receive translated letters from some of the children that the money has gone to help and their words are so encouraging. I also love the flexibility that having my own business gives me on a day to day basis.

Where do you see Mai Pearls going in the future?

Henrietta: From strength to

Posted: August 3, 2011 11:48 AM