Kirsty Gipson started The Little Hygge Company at the beginning of 2020. A combination of moving into a new home and being made redundant from her job sparked the idea of building her own “small business with our main aim of bringing the Hygge feeling into your home”.

When did you first discover Hygge? What do you love most about it?

I’ve been aware of Hygge as a concept for some time, although I never understood the true meaning or looked into it until last Christmas actually.  My partner bought me The Little Book of Hygge, by Meik Wiking; I couldn’t put it down – something just resonated with my soul, and I’ve craved to learn more ever since.

What I love most is to just be in the moment – which in itself is the most simplest of concepts; but with the world of technology and how engrossed we are as a nation with social media and living a fast paced life.. it’s easily pushed aside.

I think people can improve their lifestyle and more importantly, their wellbeing, by introducing parts of Hygge to their world…and putting their phones down once in a while!

What lead you to creating a shop to offer products and how did you go about starting it?

We moved into our house a year ago and I started an Instagram account to document our journey, but this also showed me how much my style was changing in such a short period of time.  In January this year it was almost like a lightbulb moment, I wanted to create my own business – even if it was on the side of my then full time day job; this was something I felt passionate about. 

I know the concepts of a business and how it works behind the scenes so I just started.  I built my website, researched suppliers – and just went for it.  I was made redundant from my job of 13 years.. so I have had a bit of time to get things going.

What has been the most challenging and the most rewarding thing about setting up the business?

Just trying to get my name out there, which I think a lot of small businesses struggle with, it is so difficult to get noticed – it’s a big pond!  That’s certainly a challenge, it’s a slow growth period; the pandemic hasn’t made things any easier.

Honestly, the most rewarding thing is seeing my products styled in customers’ homes – they are my greatest promoters – and they believe in me and my values, you can’t put a price on that feeling.  I’m no expert in interior design, I am learning as I go along which is refreshing for me.

What items are most popular?

Items with a multipurpose use – like our handmade woven trays, great for display, a coffee table or to load up snacks and drinks – outside, or in!  Our Harlequin vases have been popular too, a small flower vase but also double up as candle holders.  Also our Porcelain Tealight houses – a lot of people have said how great they will look all lit up at Christmas!

Have you visited Denmark? Tell us about some of your favourite places that you have been to?

Not yet but it is on the (ever-growing) list!  Most of my recent years’ of travel locations have been based around good diving spots!  I’m a PADI Open Water Diver, and I love to explore the Ocean, it’s like my second home. 

Jamaica, Mexico, Dominican, Bali and the Gili Islands – I dived with Giant Turtles, they are so majestic – I may have had a little happy dance moment when I saw them! I also have family in Canada – and I love getting lost in city breaks. 

What have you been reading, listening to, or watching recently – have you got any recommendations?

I am currently reading Good Vibes, Good Life by Vex King.  I have a soft spot for anything to do with self-improvement and building confidence to help with my mental health.  I also have a couple of design books I dip in and out of.  I listen to Audible when I go to bed.. anything read by Stephen Fry is soothing enough to help me sleep!

Finally, what is your tip of the day?

Bit of an odd one.. but a speed peeler works both ways.. I didn’t find this out until recently, it might make someone’s day!  If readers want something a bit more philosophical, start your morning with a good cup of coffee and make your bed every morning – you will always feel as though you have accomplished something!

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Interview by: Alex & Claire Minnis / Images courtesy of Kirsty Gipson