Uncovering the Heart and Passion Behind Elsa & Evelyn with Kristina
I’m thrilled to introduce you to Kristina, the creative force behind Elsa & Evelyn. What began as Kristina’s personal journey toward a more mindful and slow-living lifestyle has evolved into a beautiful brand dedicated to crafting reusable products with love and care. Inspired by nature, Kristina has created a line of eco-friendly products that add a touch of joy to everyday life. I’m excited to share Kristina’s story and dive into what makes Elsa & Evelyn so special. Join us as we explore the passion and inspiration that fuel this wonderful brand.
Why did you start Elsa & Evelyn?
I started Elsa & Evelyn during a difficult period in my life, initially focusing on wall art prints. I wanted affirmations around my home to remind me of brighter days ahead. Creativity has always been my way of navigating challenges, and my goal was to spread that positivity into others' homes.
Inspired by my grandmother's love for nature and the beauty of the natural world, we’ve since expanded into reusable drinkware. Whether at home or out adventuring, our products encourage sustainability and bring a touch of nature’s beauty into everyday life.
How did your personal journey influence the brand’s mission?
Starting the brand during a challenging time taught me the importance of appreciating small moments and finding comfort in everyday things. Creativity has always been my outlet, and I wanted to share that sense of joy and balance with others. This shaped our focus on creating meaningful pieces that brighten your day, whether you're at home or out on an adventure, helping you embrace life with a bit more intention and happiness.
What does "slow living" mean to you?
To me, slow living is about intentionally taking a step back from the fast pace of life and truly savouring the small, meaningful moments. It’s about focusing on what brings joy and peace, whether that’s spending time in nature, enjoying a quiet cup of tea, or creating something with care. It encourages being mindful with your time, prioritising quality over quantity and making space for what truly matters, helping you to feel more grounded and connected in everyday life.
How did Elsa and Evelyn inspire the brand name?
Elsa, my Plummer Terrier, came into my life during lockdown, a time when, like many others, I felt very low and disconnected. Her boundless energy and loyal companionship helped me find joy again. My grandmother, Evelyn, nurtured my creativity from a young age, spending weekends and half terms crafting everything from clay ornaments to flower arrangements. My grandparents also instilled in me a deep love of nature, taking me to some of the most beautiful places.
What makes your most popular items stand out?
What makes our most popular items stand out is their combination of thoughtful design, practicality and a strong connection to nature. Each piece is crafted with both aesthetics and function in mind, ensuring that they not only look beautiful but also serve a purpose in everyday life. Whether you're at home or on an adventure, our products are made to last and bring a sense of comfort and joy. They resonate with people and the small moments that bring joy into daily life.
We focus on creating small batch, reusable items that are designed to last, minimising the need for frequent replacements. By being intentional with our designs and production processes, we aim to offer products that balance quality with affordability, ensuring that everyone can make eco-conscious choices without compromising on style or function. Additionally, we keep our collections small and thoughtful, reducing excess production.
How does nature influence your designs?
Nature quietly shapes our designs, from the soft colours and textures to the simple, organic shapes we choose. Whether it’s the muted tones of a sunset or the calming lines of a leaf, these natural elements help us create pieces that feel relaxed and easy-going. We want our designs to reflect the outdoors in a way that’s subtle but adds a bit of peace and charm to everyday life.
What feedback from customers has been most meaningful?
The most meaningful feedback from customers is when they share how our products have become part of their everyday routines or special moments. Knowing that something we created has brought a bit of joy or comfort into someone’s life makes everything we do worthwhile.
What challenges have you faced since starting your business?
Since starting the business, some of the biggest challenges have been learning how to navigate the day-to-day demands of running everything myself, from design to marketing. Balancing creativity with the practical side of business has been a learning curve, especially when it comes to managing production costs and maintaining quality. Another challenge has been growing while staying true to our values, ensuring our designs remain timeless and intentional without getting caught up in trends.
Are there any new products or collections you're excited about?
We’ve just launched a collection of 12oz travel-sized tumblers, and I’m really excited about it! Now that we’re heading into the cooler months, they’re perfect for busy mornings, whether you’re commuting to work or standing on the sidelines at kids' sports events on chilly Saturdays. They’re great for keeping your brew warm while you’re on the go!
What advice do you have for others wanting to start an eco-friendly business?
Always stay open to learning and be transparent about where you are and where you're heading. We're not perfect, and I wouldn’t call us a fully eco-friendly business because the reality is that some of our processes still create waste. But we’re setting ambitious goals and working hard to reduce our environmental impact and improve our processes. Being honest about that journey is important. Focus on creating products that people will use and keep for years to come. Be honest with your customers about your materials and decisions and take small, practical steps to reduce waste, whether it’s in packaging or production. Finally, be patient; building a purpose-driven business takes time, but it's a journey worth investing in.
Lastly, How can our readers shop with you?
Our online store, elsaandevelyn.co.uk , is the best place to browse and purchase from our collection. Plus, when you sign up for our mailing list, you'll receive a 10% discount code as a thank you! We don’t send emails often, but it’s the best way to stay updated on any new product launches or special offers.