After three years working for a French patisserie in Hampstead, Slovakian couple Veronika and Libor decided to open up their own patisserie with a bakery on site – Veronika as shop manager and Libor as head pastry chef.
The first Laveli opened on the Askew Road – where they could see huge potential. They started in 2008 and now five years later, are running another two shops in Chiswick and Acton where they sell all their delicious goodies.
The name ‘Laveli’ comes from ‘LA’ for their daughter Laura, ‘VE’ for Veronika and ‘LI’ for Libor. They would love to change the Askew Road shop to ‘Laveli’s’ to include their 15 month old son Sebastian.
They live in Acton with their two children.
Where are you right now?
In my office, having my morning espresso and thinking what to start first with.
What do you do for ‘me-time’?
Spending time in the gym, swimming and a sauna afterwards. I can relax and think how to work more efficiently so I can get more me-time!
Where is your favourite place to eat in West London?
I prefer to cook and eat at home. Occasionally we visit the Station House or the Rocket pub in Acton Central.
Career and children – top tip on how do you do it?
Where to start…? Well we are still getting used to it as our little one is only 15 months old. But my office is very child friendly and we stop talking about business while we are with kids. We’re always very happy to hear that my mum is coming over to help out.
If you had to make a quick escape where would you go?
Cornwall.
What is on your bedside table?
Magazines, nappies, Ipad.
Three things you’d take with you to a desert island?
A coffee machine, sewing machine and Italian dictionary.
Who would you most like to meet for a drink?
I think Jamie Oliver, in his kitchen.
What is your greatest extravagance?
A Danish style bench from Max Inc. I love this shop, as well as the Old Cinema in Chiswick. I am a chair collector. You can find a few interesting pieces in our cafes too.
What is your favourite thing to do as a family?
Any kind of sport and visiting my grandma in Slovakia. She’s still very energetic and positive.
Veronika was talking to Annabelle King.
