A day in the life of our founder, Sarah Fragkakis
So, what exactly does a typical day at House to Haven look like? We chat to founder, Sarah Fragkakis, who talks porridge, home decor suppliers, photography and happy dancing!
Breakfast
Alfie (my faithful cocker spaniel and House to Haven mascot) wakes me up every morning and begs me to hang out on the sofa downstairs, even though he's back to snoring on the couch five minutes after I'm up. I find that a delicious bowl of porridge with a side-serving of Jeremy Vine gives me the energy I need to kick-start my day.
Early morning
I head back upstairs to the office, turn on a Spotify playlist and do a quick tidy up. I adore my pink and rose gold desk and matching stationery. These, and the lovely country view out of the window, help to inspire me.
My planner is updated on a Monday and keeps me focused every morning as I go through the tasks for the day. I check my emails and any orders that may have come through overnight.
Happy dance time! I get so excited when orders come in each day from my amazing existing and new customers. I enjoy picking the products and lovingly wrapping each item with recycled and reused packaging, all ready to send out right away.
Mid to late morning
It can also be like Christmas morning when new supplier orders are delivered. Alfie and I rip open the packaging to check out the sheer quality of what’s arrived. Very exciting!
I liaise with suppliers to add more items to our home and garden collections. One of my favourites is based in Denmark. I just love their soft romantic French vintage style and that we can offer their beautiful products here in the UK. I also ensure to support UK based suppliers like Gisela Graham and a company that provide some fantastic modern rustic and unique products.
Lunch
Greek tzatziki or Alfie’s favourite low-fat cream cheese, on thins, are usually on the menu for lunch. Washed down with a mango, pineapple and banana smoothie or a cold glass of water.
Early afternoon
I turn my attention to photographing stock for the House to Haven website, which I love to do. I use a mix of photos sent by suppliers and the rest I style and take myself.
Our own home and garden, a mix of modern industrial rustic and French Vintage decor, serve as my canvas for creating the ideal backdrop. Some of our lovely local customers are also happy for their homes to be used as my studio.
Mid-afternoon
When Alfie decides to chase his brother Milo (the cat) or chew on Dad’s socks – it’s time for his walk. We head out to the local fields or around our estate where he loves to play with other pooches.
I like to leave my phone at home so I can have a quick detox from social media and emails. It’s nice to chat to people we meet on the way and take in the fresh air and scenery.
Late afternoon
I spend time updating the website with the product images and details. I like to be as descriptive as possible, so customers feel they have all the info they need. I then make sure that everything on Facebook and Instagram is fresh, chat to followers and respond to questions and comments.
The feedback and support I get from our social media community is so inspiring and helpful. It’s really important to help develop the business and absolutely makes my day!
Evening
My hubby and I tend to eat a fairly early dinner together. It’s great to catch up with him and talk about the excitement of the day. Alfie is normally raring to go for another walk soon after and then we kick back together and get lost in a series on Sky or Netflix.
Take a peek at latest gems selected by Sarah
Take a sneak peek at the very latest arrivals or simple Spring touches, all handpicked by Sarah to help make your home a haven?
Can’t find exactly what you’re looking for? We’d be more than happy to search out that special piece for you, at no extra cost. Simply, get in touch for a chat, we'd love to hear from you.
