A conversation with Sophie Allport

This Mother’s Day, we have partnered with our favourite interior brand, Sophie Allport, to create a limited edition collection of letterbox biscuits. To celebrate the launch, we caught up with their founder, Sophie.
Tell us how Sophie Allport started?
Having been an illustrator for a couple of years in London, I was asked to be a demonstrator at the Country Living Fair back in 1996. I seized the opportunity and thought I should make a few things to sell. So, I designed a few cards and limited edition prints and the rest is history…
What achievement are you most proud of?
Being awarded 5 gold stars at Chelsea Flower Show in 2023.
Who or what inspires you?
Nature and everyday life. Seeing the world through my boy's eyes when they were little, they have always loved insects and animals.
Tell us about the first products you launched?
The first products we launched were mugs. I had no idea they would sell so well!
What challenges have you faced as the brand has grown and evolved?
You simply do not know what is around the corner!! First it was Brexit, then COVID, the cost-of-living crisis, wars, and ships stuck in the Suez Canal. These have all impacted our business and you must evolve and think on your feet!
What advice would you give to aspiring female leaders?
Believe in yourself and your vision.
Quick fire round:
Tea or coffee? Tea first thing in the morning, then coffee, then tea in the afternoon! If i had to choose one, it would have to be coffee! Can’t do without in the morning!!

Favourite biscuit? Anything covered in a lot of dark chocolate.

Favourite Sophie Allport design? Currently our new Spring Chicken. Otherwise it would be Bees every day!

Summer or winter? I was born in the Summer, so it has to be summer. The light mornings and evenings swing it for me!

Cats or dogs? We have three dogs, so it has to be dogs!