Today we would love to introduce you to the Mother/Daughter combo who have created the living homewares brand Botanica, a gorgeous mix of nature and contemporary chic that adds a real WOW factor to your spaces.
Introducing Christine Korolew & her daughter Naomi…..
Tell us about yourself and what you create
Botanica creates beautiful living art for interiors on the Mornington Peninsula. We specialise in kokedama and terrariums and dabble in all things Botanical.
My mum, Christine, loves gardening and started creating terrariums at home. When she couldn’t stop, I helped her sell some at a few markets before Christmas a few years ago. We were overwhelmed by the response – people just loved them. Especially our succulent terrariums, as they only need water four times a year, so they have a broad appeal.
Then I discovered kokedama and we joined forces, creating Botanica together.
When did you know you first wanted to live a creative life?
First I decided to give up my corporate career. I’d spent 13 years living abroad, working in the oil industry in places like Algeria, Pakistan, Syria, India, and East Africa – which I loved. I only came back to Australia a few years ago after my son was born. Once I was a mother I knew I couldn’t sustain the kind of commitment required to fulfil such a demanding role, and I decided to make a break and find something local.
What inspires you to be creative?
Anything I see really. Friends, interior design, architecture, social media, magazines….and Pinterest, definitely Pinterest!
What is your best ever creative moment?
Being pregnant. Creating a human is about as good as it gets!
Describe a lesson you learnt from creative failure…
If I don’t finish what I start on the same day, I may never finish it. If I lose interest in a project I find it really difficult to whip up any more enthusiasm for it. I’d rather start something new.
What’s the scariest movie you have ever seen?
Gremlins – I’m still scarred.
What’s the best advice anyone ever gave you?
(Show your) “legs or boobs, never both!”
What’s your favourite tunes to get you in the creative mood?
The sound of silence…
What do you love most about the EPM?
I love the laid back festival vibe and the gorgeous location – everyone feels so relaxed.
Connect with Botanica….
Facebook – www.facebook.com/botanicalivingart
