Karen Hastings - The Bag Interview

Founder and Managing Director of Cupcake Mum

What does the bag you carry say about you?

I hope my bag says " I may be busy and have a lot of things on the go, but I am still professional and stylish when it comes to handbags"

How would you describe your personal style?

Simple elegance and practicality

What features are important to you when buying a bag?

Must be able to fit the basics of my day

What do you tend to carry in your handbag?

Well it used to be that a womans bag was a very feminine space, full of make up and tissues etc. To be honest now once I have got my Blackberry, my ipod, my purse and note book inside there is often only space for my favourite lipstick ( Brave Red from MAC)

What bag would you love to get as a special gift?

Well it used to be that a womans bag was a very feminine space, full of make up and tissues etc. To be honest now once I have got my Blackberry, my ipod, my purse and note book inside there is often only space for my favourite lipstick ( Brave Red from MAC)

Biography

Karen is the founder and MD of Cupcake, a members’ club and spa for mums and mums-to-be. In less than four years, Karen has opened two successful Clubs in southwest London. Karen attended George Washington University in Washington DC. An MBA from the London Business School followed. After working for ADC Telecommunications and Northwest Airlines, she joined American Express where she worked her way up rapidly through the ranks to Marketing Director.

As she reached her 30s and her friends began to start families, Karen observed a gap in the market for a place where expectant mothers and people with young children could go to socialise and feel part of a community. Karen created the unique concept of Cupcake, raised £1.8m and project-managed the site build from a concrete shell into what the press calls “a utopia for mums and mums-to-be”.

Website: http://www.cupcakemum.com


Karen Hastings

Karen likes...

 
Anya Hindmarch Maeve flat tote
 

Selfridges

£395

 
Reiss Pleated satin clutch
 

Reiss

£79 £59

To keep things simple! I have dark hair so often accessorise with black for evenings
 
Michael Kors Walnut Raffia Tote with Adjustable Leather Handles
 

StyleBop

£332

I grew up in Sri Lanka and so I love beach holidays in Asia with my husband Kyle. We both work very hard so it is great to get away, and ringing the changes with a really indulgent beach bag is pure heaven


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