Merci Maman offers sweet bijoux personalised gifts for adults and children. Items range from aprons for budding little chefs to engraved charms which can be worn as either necklace pendants or as a bracelet charm – my favourite. These are great gift ideas for the mum to be or as unique gift for a child. Merci Maman was founded by Beatrice De Montille, and now is a three person strong business.
WLM got up close and personal with Beatrice – the mummy and engraver at Merci Maman:
What inspired you to start Merci Maman?
I set up Merci Maman 3 years ago, in 2007, a few months after the birth of my second child. I didn’t want to miss these precious years and I was very keen on working from home. Like lots of mums, I just wanted to combine my working and family life as best as I could. When I launched Merci Maman, my aim was to create a place where you could find a selection of many charming, unique and carefully-made gifts, where shopping was simple and fun, and where you could always find the most inspirational and wonderful ideas.
What is your favourite place in West London?
My favorite place is definitively Fulham Palace next to Bishops park. As soon as the sun starts shining in the Spring. I love organising playdates or picnics there. Even in the winter, it is a great place to go. They organise lots of great events for example jazz concerts or Christmas carols. You can even treat yourself to a nice glass of wine or have a delicious pastry.
What is your favorite child friendly place in West London?
I recently discovered the Wetland Center in Putney. It is a great place to go with your children. They have built a great playground with water games, there are a few indoor activities and they even organise craft activities where you can make your own key ring or your own personalized badge. You can observe lots of different birds and then enjoy a family lunch in the sun. If you are not in a hurry, you can spend a full day there, they will keep you busy!!! And your children will definitively love this place. They will ask you to go again… soon!
How to you spend your downtime?
I love looking after my three children Martin (6), Chloe (3) and Romane (9 months). I also enjoy walking in the lovely London parks, running alongside the Thames or playing card games with our best friends.
How do you juggle running your own business and being a mum?
It is tough but I warmly encourage all mums to be their own boss and start an home based activity as it is possible thanks to the internet. Obviously it is hard work but I think that it’s worth it. I always have a very long to-do list waiting for me but I like it!
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