Christmas Card Competition: Q&A with Caroline Gardner
This festive season, we’re pleased to announce Caroline Gardner as a judge for the annual Christmas card competition. We caught up with designer and founder, Caroline Gardner to learn what she’s looking for in the winning design, and what makes her stationery and gift brand so unique during Christmas time.
Schools that got creative include:
- St Vincent’s Catholic School
- St Marylebone School
- Wetherby Preparatory School
- St Edwards Catholic Primary School
- St Mary's Bryanston Square Church of England Primary School
- Hampden Gurney Church of England Primary School
- Queen’s College Preparatory School
You’re a judge at this year’s Christmas card competition. What did you look for when picking a winner? What were you most excited to see from the entries?
Christmas is all about relishing tradition, isn’t it? And I admit, I love being part of that. But as a designer, I also enjoy pushing things forward. It can be a hard balance to pull off, but kids are often brilliant at it, aren’t they? I’ll know the winner when I see it!
The theme for the competition is ‘Festive Animals.’ What is your favourite animal to celebrate the season and love at Christmas time?
I’ve always had a soft spot for penguins! They always seem so busy and manage to make everything they do look hilarious. They’re the comedians of the animal kingdom - always ready to make you laugh, and I’m all for that.
Your shop is located on Marylebone High Street. What do you like the most about being based in the heart of Marylebone Village?
We’ve been right in the middle of Marylebone High Street for over 10 years, and even now, the occasional very local person will come in and ask if we’re new... There has to be some powerful magic involved in making that happen, doesn’t there?
What makes Marylebone Village such a special place to shop during the festive season?
Christmas can be a stressful time for some, but in the end, it works its magic and good moods prevail. The street always looks so wonderful, and it’s great to play a small part in making people feel good.
What is your go-to Christmas gift recommendation for someone struggling to find inspiration?
I’d love to give you a list of all my favourite Caroline Gardner products (and there are many, I can assure you!), but my go-to gift has to be a good book, and there are even more of those!
You founded your brand 30 years ago. What are some of the lessons you’ve learned along the way? And what is your fondest memory of your career?
I think the most important lesson for any businessperson is to always be ready for the next lesson! You can plan as much as you like, but you need to be ready to learn at every stage and from what’s happening now - it’s always different.
You can explore the winning Christmas Card designs at Caroline Gardner’s Marylebone Village store this festive season. Whilst you’re there, shop for Christmas cards, festive gifts for loved ones, and all the wrapping paper and decorations you need to impress!
Caroline Gardner, 17 Marylebone High Street, London, W1U 4NZ
