Emma Bridgewater's Christmas

Emma BridgwaterWhat makes Christmas magical for you?
Somewhere in the busy excitement of the build up to Christmas, I always try to make sure that there is a still point, to catch my breath and gather the family together and remember the simple sweet things about Christmas.  The best opportunity for reflection for me always seems to come on Christmas Eve, when there is a moment among the carols when time seems to stop, and the hubbub stills.
 
What is on your Christmas list this year?  What special gifts will you be buying for others?
One year, when a sharp winter had been forecast I bought variations on a jumper for all my friends, family and godchildren - from cashmere to reindeer with red noses, taking in a tiny baby pullover in finest wool and a rugged hand-knitted jersey made of oiled wool.  Another year, when we had recently moved house, with travel on my mind I concentrated on luggage and bags, of all shapes and sizes.
 
What is your most treasured gift you have ever received?
Perhaps my all time favourite was the bundle of sticks which turned into a cherry orchard, an inspired present from [my husband] Matthew one year. Now, ten years later, it is a cloud of blossom in spring and produces baskets full of fruit in summer.
 
What are your top tips for dressing a table for Christmas or seasonal parties?
To make the table look welcoming and beautiful at Christmas I do as my Mum and my grandmothers did before me which is to produce the special pieces of china, some of which have been put carefully away since last year, such as a well loved platter for the turkey, a dedicated dish for the pudding, and maybe this year I will add a beautiful new set of dessert plates in deep red Christmas rose design to ring the changes.  We always eat by the light of a forest of tall cream church candles, twisted all about with ivy and branches of bay.
 
What inspires your Christmas pottery designs?
Christmas inspiration comes from the deep well of tradition: Matthew and I start a design session by imagining who will be at home with us on Christmas morning, opening stockings together; then we think of who will be joining us for lunch after church- what does that feel like? What images do we conjure to communicate love and warmth; togetherness and pleasure in each other's company?
 
Do you have any tips for buying tableware and pottery as a gift?
We specialise in designing pottery to make perfect presents, full of love, warmth and humour.  We know about practical and stylish packaging, and we can even personalise a piece to make a really thoughtful and unique gift.  Moreover, this beautiful item might last for generations, so you are giving a gift which will continue to give pleasure for years to come.

www.emmabridgewater.co.uk