A Week in London with Samantha Siu
By: Samantha Siu
Editor: Lily Mattimoe
Day 1: Off to London!
Today was a whirlwind of chaos. Between a quick pedicure, packing frenzy, and cramming in some last-minute homework, I barely had time to grab a bite. By the time I boarded the plane, I was already exhausted. The flight itself? Let’s just say it wasn’t the smoothest ride. I managed to squeeze in a bit of work, though—silver lining! But here’s the kicker: by the time we landed, I’d only clocked two hours of sleep in the past 20 hours. And what’s waiting for me after landing? Four back-to-back meetings. This trip is shaping up to be quite the adventure!
Day 2: Touchdown in London
First mission: see if I could check into my hotel early. Success! I kicked off my shoes and collapsed for a much-needed breather before the day’s marathon of interviews.
My first stop was with the amazing Black PR family, followed by an interview with Ouch Magazine. Chatting with the lovely Anya, their writer, was a delight! One meeting unexpectedly shifted to an online interview, giving me a bit more breathing room. Afterward, my PR agent, Immy, and I headed back to the hotel for another interview—this time with SS Editorial.
We talked for three hours! By then, I was absolutely drained, but I still managed to tackle some unpacking and finish a paper due that day. With every ounce of energy spent, I crashed hard, ready for whatever London had in store for me next.
Day 3: Award Show
I woke up at 1:30 pm to the sound of a knock on my door—my new necklaces had arrived for our upcoming pop-up with Anne Morgan! Excited, I treated myself to a chai latte from a cozy coffee shop called Sontag.
Then, it was time to get glam. My MUAH (makeup and hair artist), Fanny, arrived, and we spent four hours working magic. Fanny has been my go-to in London; her creativity and positivity are unmatched.
The evening brought the Boutique Awards at the Mayfair Hotel, where we won our very first award: Jewelry and Watch Brand of the Year—Highly Commended! The buzz around the room about our brand was incredible. I had to leave early for a spontaneous photo shoot to celebrate this milestone. It was a night to remember, but by the end, I was beyond ready to collapse.
Day 4: Creative Connections and Pop-Up Prep
I started the day with an interview at the Hoxton Hotel with Brian, a world-class writer and dear friend of the brand. His support since my first London event has been invaluable, and catching up with him was a joy.
Then it was down to business—packing up shipments for Anne Morgan’s store pop-up this winter. The excitement for this collaboration is real!
Later, I met up with Lulu, a talented photographer and friend, for a noodle date. We strolled through Piccadilly, exploring the intersection of fashion and culture, before settling at a café for a long chat. By the time I returned to my hotel, I was ready for a much-needed nap that stretched into the middle of the night…
Day 5: Dim Sum, Ping Pong, and a London Farewell
I rolled out of bed around noon for a dim sum date with Conner from Esquire HK. Conner is such a kind soul. We ended up strolling around Soho, where we found ourselves in the park, captivated by a group of middle-aged men fiercely battling it out at ping pong.
Afterward, it was errand time. I sent out a package, did some light shopping, and walked along Oxford Street. For my last London meal, I grabbed fish and chips to-go—crispy, golden perfection! I ate while packing for my flight home, reflecting on this hectic, rewarding trip. I felt nothing but gratitude.
Day 6: Homeward Bound
Up bright and early at 6 a.m., I gathered the last of my luggage and ventured out for coffee. Covent Garden was eerily quiet this early on a Sunday, but it felt peaceful. After some souvenir shopping at the airport, I boarded my flight and passed out instantly, exhausted yet fulfilled by this unforgettable journey.
Until next time, London!
XX Samantha Siu
1 comment
Love the real BTS of a designer’s trip to London! So hectic but so rewarding!