Earlier this month, I got the biggest surprise when I was contacted by Harrods inviting me to come over to the Harrods Winter Sale launch and interview Florence Welsh. There was no way I was going to refuse. It was too good an opportunity to miss. An opportunity to interview, I feel, one of the most promising and gifted musicians of our generation. Her powerful, distinctive vocals and unconventional fashion style won me over back in 2008. It was also a chance to explore what goes on behind the scenes at one of the world’s very best luxury department stores, after the VIP guest has kicked off the sale.
I love Harrods and feel extremely fortunate to live in a city where it resides. Memories go back right to my childhood of when my mum used to take me there for visits when I was perhaps 7 years old. We would drink tea and buy some pudding to take home. Then a few years later my brother and cousins used to take trips to Brompton Road. I used to dream of getting hold of that famous green carrier bag with the gold logo. My aunts and uncles abroad would ask about them.
Here are my photos of the launch.
After a short wait in a private reception room, I was led into a beautiful tiny room where Florence rose from her seat to welcome me. I was surprised it was just the two of us in the room. Alone. No one else. I was expecting someone else to be in there with us but no. It felt very surreal and incredible. “Can I pour you some water?” she politely asked. My response: “Yes please.” She gave me a glass of water and then we chatted for moment before beginning the interview. As you will hear from the audio, Florence and I really enjoyed it. I just could not get over how so easy she was to talk to. Gentle. Warm. Softly spoken. She was talking openly, treating me more like a friend than a stranger. We both laughed a lot. Below this text you will find the audio of the interview. Just click on play and enjoy!
One friend, Chris Terry, wrote of my photo with Florence (below): “It probably says something about me that my first thought was ‘Eleventh Doctor and Amy Pond?'” Funny.
I was given a good tour around Harrods by the lovely Lauren Doble who kept me company for a short while. We had a good chat as she showed me the floors for womenswear and menswear.
It was such a memorable day and I am very grateful to Harrods, their staff for making it a special day for me. I completed my visit with the purchase of a fragrance by Ralph Lauren, for a friend’s 18th birthday. I am sure he will love it!
Arstcrylique
Wonderful post, very good work!
Sara Ottavia C.
http://arstcrylique.blogspot.com/
A Forte For Fashion
what an amazing experience. She looked fabulous – I always thought in pictures she looked older than she is but your pictures do her justice :)
Thanks for sharing!
Sherin
How awesome!! I was reading your tweets that morning and was so jealous. She’s so talented. Great interview. She seems so nice.
Jai'me Jan
Thank you, Sherin! I can’t believe how lovely she was. So sweet. I felt very comfortable around her. :]
Jai'me Jan
Hey thank you! It was an incredible experience. Unforgettable! I am glad you enjoyed my blog post! :]
Jai'me Jan
Thank you! :]
blahblahbecky.co.uk
This is amazing Jai’me: beautiful photos (as always) and your interview and video are just fantastic too!
You’re just the best at making your readers feel like we were right there with you.Well done! :)
faymorrow
Amazing!! Well done, you must be so proud!! the interview is lovely she sounds so relaxed and friendly. congrats for this great opportunity x
AJ
Such an amazing way to finish off the year! Been really looking forward to this post. She comes across really lovely and down to earth. Beautiful photos as always!XO
http://www.thestyletreaty.com
Beautifulthings
Great post! You are a good interviewer, I think you really managed to bring out the fashion loving side of her.
Loved the pictures too.
wizz999
Wow fantastic photos, I especially love the Harrods men with Florence as the confetti is about to come down – all their faces are so memorable!
Love xo http://tobeapoetblog.blogspot.com/
Jai'me Jan
Thanks Becky! I was hoping my readers would enjoy listening to the audio. I think listening to the audio is a lot better than reading the text of the interview! :]
Jai'me Jan
Thank you faymorrow! I hope you enjoyed it!
Jai'me Jan
Aww thank you AJ! It was an AMAZING way to finish off the year. Perfect way to round off 2011! :]
Jai'me Jan
Thank you! I thought it was the perfect opportunity to get her to talk about fashion! :]
Jai'me Jan
Thanks! Yes that was a really good moment and the confetti looks so good when it’s scattered all over the place! :]