Dear Justine,
First things first: thank you for joining me on this adventure! “Tea for Two” is my excuse to pull up a cozy chair with some of the most brilliant, imaginative souls I know. I’m talking about the artisans, designers, and educators whose creativity is so infectious, it spills over into every corner of their lives (and sometimes onto the unsuspecting bystander).
Now, this is a happy reunion. Not long ago, Justine, I had the joy of being your guest on “Color Your Home Happy.” Now, here we are, swapping stories over a (virtual) cup of tea.
As I wandered through your vibrant world on Rainbow Shaker, I found myself nodding along, thinking: Yes! Here’s a fellow fearless champion of color. Your approach to storytelling through bold, joyful design absolutely resonated with me.
And then I discovered something that made me do a double take. You very casually dropped into conversation that before you were this incredible designer, you were a rocket engineer. My jaw might still be somewhere under my desk.
Let’s be honest—when I picture a rocket engineer, I see lab coats, complicated equations, and a color palette limited to “government building beige” and “aluminum.” But you? You’ve launched yourself from aerospace into a world bursting with fuchsia, cobalt, and every glorious hue in between.
So let’s start there—because that transformation is exactly the kind of story I created this series to celebrate.
Let's spill the Tea (and the color!)
What did a typical day look like for you as a rocket engineer? (Bonus points for any “Houston, we have a problem” moments!)
Let’s just say I was responsible for everything that lights up or explodes — which earned me the nickname “Professor Boom” 💥🧯
I worked on some pretty exciting stuff — from stage separation systems for the Ariane 6 rocket (yes, the part that goes boom mid-air) to propulsion quality for small satellites, and eventually became system lead for the ignition system of a German rocket. So yes — my workdays often involved real fire, controlled explosions, and a lot of high-stakes problem-solving.
But between the rocket tests and adrenaline, there was also a lot of waiting. The processes could be painfully slow, especially in big aerospace companies. I often found myself itching for more color, creativity, and… frankly, a little less bureaucracy.
It wasn’t all “Houston, we have a problem,” but there were definitely some tense moments. Still, that experience taught me how to stay calm under pressure, think in systems, and never be afraid of the unknown — which oddly enough, comes in very handy when designing someone’s living room.
First things first: thank you for joining me on this adventure! “Tea for Two” is my excuse to pull up a cozy chair with some of the most brilliant, imaginative souls I know. I’m talking about the artisans, designers, and educators whose creativity is so infectious, it spills over into every corner of their lives (and sometimes onto the unsuspecting bystander).
Now, this is a happy reunion. Not long ago, Justine, I had the joy of being your guest on “Color Your Home Happy.” Now, here we are, swapping stories over a (virtual) cup of tea.
As I wandered through your vibrant world on Rainbow Shaker, I found myself nodding along, thinking: Yes! Here’s a fellow fearless champion of color. Your approach to storytelling through bold, joyful design absolutely resonated with me.
And then I discovered something that made me do a double take. You very casually dropped into conversation that before you were this incredible designer, you were a rocket engineer. My jaw might still be somewhere under my desk.
Let’s be honest—when I picture a rocket engineer, I see lab coats, complicated equations, and a color palette limited to “government building beige” and “aluminum.” But you? You’ve launched yourself from aerospace into a world bursting with fuchsia, cobalt, and every glorious hue in between.
So let’s start there—because that transformation is exactly the kind of story I created this series to celebrate.
Let's spill the Tea (and the color!)
What did a typical day look like for you as a rocket engineer? (Bonus points for any “Houston, we have a problem” moments!)
Let’s just say I was responsible for everything that lights up or explodes — which earned me the nickname “Professor Boom” 💥🧯
I worked on some pretty exciting stuff — from stage separation systems for the Ariane 6 rocket (yes, the part that goes boom mid-air) to propulsion quality for small satellites, and eventually became system lead for the ignition system of a German rocket. So yes — my workdays often involved real fire, controlled explosions, and a lot of high-stakes problem-solving.
But between the rocket tests and adrenaline, there was also a lot of waiting. The processes could be painfully slow, especially in big aerospace companies. I often found myself itching for more color, creativity, and… frankly, a little less bureaucracy.
It wasn’t all “Houston, we have a problem,” but there were definitely some tense moments. Still, that experience taught me how to stay calm under pressure, think in systems, and never be afraid of the unknown — which oddly enough, comes in very handy when designing someone’s living room.
Are there any surprising skills or lessons from your engineering days that sneak into your work as an interior designer?
Absolutely! The most important skill I’ve carried over is problem-solving. In engineering, we were always looking at how to fix problems creatively within tight parameters, and that mindset is so useful in design. Also, precision matters in both fields. I tend to approach interior design with an analytical mind, making sure every detail aligns—whether it's the measurements, the balance of color, or how a space will function. I’ll admit, sometimes I get a little too detailed with design planning, but it’s those details that make all the difference in the end.
You clearly have the analytical mind of an engineer. How do you balance that precision with the beautiful chaos of creativity and the boldness of color?
Honestly, some days I feel like Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde 😅! One part of me craves precision, structure, laser-measured floor plans and meticulously calculated sight lines… and the other part wants to paint a ceiling hot pink and break every design “rule” in the book.
The balance comes from knowing when to lean into each side. My engineering brain gives me the scaffolding — the logic, the flow, the function. But color? Color is pure feeling. That’s where I let intuition and play take over. I usually build a strong foundation first — then I let things loosen up, layer by layer, until the space feels alive.
It’s that tension — between the grid and the unexpected — that creates something memorable. Bold, yes, but never chaotic. There’s always a quiet logic under the wildness.
Absolutely! The most important skill I’ve carried over is problem-solving. In engineering, we were always looking at how to fix problems creatively within tight parameters, and that mindset is so useful in design. Also, precision matters in both fields. I tend to approach interior design with an analytical mind, making sure every detail aligns—whether it's the measurements, the balance of color, or how a space will function. I’ll admit, sometimes I get a little too detailed with design planning, but it’s those details that make all the difference in the end.
You clearly have the analytical mind of an engineer. How do you balance that precision with the beautiful chaos of creativity and the boldness of color?
Honestly, some days I feel like Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde 😅! One part of me craves precision, structure, laser-measured floor plans and meticulously calculated sight lines… and the other part wants to paint a ceiling hot pink and break every design “rule” in the book.
The balance comes from knowing when to lean into each side. My engineering brain gives me the scaffolding — the logic, the flow, the function. But color? Color is pure feeling. That’s where I let intuition and play take over. I usually build a strong foundation first — then I let things loosen up, layer by layer, until the space feels alive.
It’s that tension — between the grid and the unexpected — that creates something memorable. Bold, yes, but never chaotic. There’s always a quiet logic under the wildness.
Was there a single “aha!” moment when you decided, “Enough: I want to follow my heart and be an interior designer”? Or was it more of a slow burn, perhaps a realization that your creative path lay in a different direction.
It was definitely a slow burn. I grew up surrounded by renovation sites, and as a child, I dreamt of being either a fashion or interior designer. But creativity wasn’t really seen as a viable path in my family — so I became an engineer instead. I’m endlessly curious, so I loved studying aerospace and learning everything I could about rockets. But once I started working in the field — first for big industry leaders, then for startups — I realized the stars in my eyes were slowly dimming. The spark just wasn’t there anymore. At the same time, I never fully let go of interior design. Every time I moved house, I would throw myself into redesigning the space. It lit me up in a way nothing else did.
Eventually, I reached a point where I knew I couldn’t ignore it any longer. I wanted to forge my own creative path — one that felt joyful, expressive, and mine. Launching my own studio (Rainbow Shaker) was scary, but the moment I took the leap, it felt like a weight lifted. I remember thinking: “This is it. This is where I’m meant to be.” And I haven’t looked back since.
I was glued to the screen watching you on Channel 4’s The Big Interiors Battle (confession: I was basically your cheerleader, especially when you fearlessly painted ceilings). What’s your secret to convincing people to look up and embrace that glorious “fifth wall”?
Thank you, Melanie! It was such a fun experience — neck cramps and all 😅
Ceilings are one of the most overlooked design opportunities, but for me, they’re pure magic. I always say: if walls get to have fun, why not the ceiling too? A bold or painted ceiling does more than look good — it brings focus, sets the mood, and can completely shift how a room feels. Darker tones can make large rooms feel more grounded and intimate, while bold colors or murals can create energy, direction and surprise. It’s like giving your space a punchline… but in a really good way.
I did exactly that in my own home: I teamed up with the brilliant Molly Mural to create a ceiling mural in my hallway, inspired by a trip to Brazil. It’s right above where I record the Color Your Home Happy podcast — a passageway turned joy-bomb of shapes, colors, and texture. It connects the surrounding rooms and lifts my spirits every single day.
Yes, painting a ceiling definitely test your upper-body strength and patience (we definitely had a few laughs and neck aches). But every time someone walks in, looks up, and smiles — it’s so worth it.
I think once people see how transformative a ceiling can be, they never go back to plain white. All it takes is a little courage… and maybe a stepladder 😉.
It was definitely a slow burn. I grew up surrounded by renovation sites, and as a child, I dreamt of being either a fashion or interior designer. But creativity wasn’t really seen as a viable path in my family — so I became an engineer instead. I’m endlessly curious, so I loved studying aerospace and learning everything I could about rockets. But once I started working in the field — first for big industry leaders, then for startups — I realized the stars in my eyes were slowly dimming. The spark just wasn’t there anymore. At the same time, I never fully let go of interior design. Every time I moved house, I would throw myself into redesigning the space. It lit me up in a way nothing else did.
Eventually, I reached a point where I knew I couldn’t ignore it any longer. I wanted to forge my own creative path — one that felt joyful, expressive, and mine. Launching my own studio (Rainbow Shaker) was scary, but the moment I took the leap, it felt like a weight lifted. I remember thinking: “This is it. This is where I’m meant to be.” And I haven’t looked back since.
I was glued to the screen watching you on Channel 4’s The Big Interiors Battle (confession: I was basically your cheerleader, especially when you fearlessly painted ceilings). What’s your secret to convincing people to look up and embrace that glorious “fifth wall”?
Thank you, Melanie! It was such a fun experience — neck cramps and all 😅
Ceilings are one of the most overlooked design opportunities, but for me, they’re pure magic. I always say: if walls get to have fun, why not the ceiling too? A bold or painted ceiling does more than look good — it brings focus, sets the mood, and can completely shift how a room feels. Darker tones can make large rooms feel more grounded and intimate, while bold colors or murals can create energy, direction and surprise. It’s like giving your space a punchline… but in a really good way.
I did exactly that in my own home: I teamed up with the brilliant Molly Mural to create a ceiling mural in my hallway, inspired by a trip to Brazil. It’s right above where I record the Color Your Home Happy podcast — a passageway turned joy-bomb of shapes, colors, and texture. It connects the surrounding rooms and lifts my spirits every single day.
Yes, painting a ceiling definitely test your upper-body strength and patience (we definitely had a few laughs and neck aches). But every time someone walks in, looks up, and smiles — it’s so worth it.
I think once people see how transformative a ceiling can be, they never go back to plain white. All it takes is a little courage… and maybe a stepladder 😉.
I’ve often been asked if I had to change my process when I did How To Build a Sex Room for Netflix (Newsflash: I didn’t!) When you were on your show, did the television production alter or interfere with your own process?
A little, yes — but mostly behind the scenes 😜. The concept and designs were done in advance, so that part was actually calm. But once filming started, it was a roller coaster: delayed deliveries (hello, summer holidays), missing furniture, and last-minute improvisations.
Oh — and the morning I found my freshly spray-painted blinds and rug covered in dusty footprints? Just hours before judging? I still don’t know if it was sabotage or a ghost with muddy shoes… but my heart nearly stopped! TV definitely adds pressure, but it also reminded me how adaptable design has to be — especially under bright lights and tight timelines.
What’s the first color you remember falling in love with—and why?
It’s hard to pinpoint exactly, but I vividly remember being drawn to turquoise as a teenager. I grew up during the Y2K era. At that time, Britney was queen, Juicy Couture tracksuits were the look, and turquoise was everywhere. It felt bold and full of promise — a little bit glam, a little bit rebellious. I wore it, painted with it, maybe even accessorized a bit too enthusiastically with it…
But like most early 2000s obsessions, it fizzled. I loved it hard — and then I couldn’t look at it without cringing. These days, turquoise gives me a mild sensory panic (the same way low-rise jeans probably do for most of us). It’s wild how color can hold memory like that — almost like a scent.
Oddly enough, I also went through a phase of rejecting pink (you know, the classic “I’m not like other girls” thing). Which is ironic, since I now use pink unapologetically in my work!
Is there a color you think is misunderstood or misused? How would you redeem it?
Pink definitely! It’s one of the most misunderstood and underestimated colors out there. Thanks to decades of social conditioning, pink still carries this baggage of “too girly” or “not serious.” I can’t count how many times I’ve heard female clients whisper, “I’d love to use pink here… but my husband probably wouldn’t go for it.” And it’s not just adults. One little boy I worked with told me pink was his favorite color and asked for a disco bedroom full of it — until he got nervous his friends might laugh. So we created a secret pink nook he could close off with curtains, just for him. It broke my heart a little… but also reminded me why this matters. Ironically, pink was originally worn by men — it was seen as a lighter, younger version of red, which symbolized strength and power.
People often judge color in isolation, but pink is a shapeshifter. Pair it with red and it becomes fiery and passionate. Pair it with blue and suddenly you’re in Miami, sipping something with a tiny umbrella. It can be bold, calming, romantic, rebellious… it just depends on how you use it.
So let’s stop treating pink like a guilty pleasure. It deserves a lot more respect — and a lot more walls!
A little, yes — but mostly behind the scenes 😜. The concept and designs were done in advance, so that part was actually calm. But once filming started, it was a roller coaster: delayed deliveries (hello, summer holidays), missing furniture, and last-minute improvisations.
Oh — and the morning I found my freshly spray-painted blinds and rug covered in dusty footprints? Just hours before judging? I still don’t know if it was sabotage or a ghost with muddy shoes… but my heart nearly stopped! TV definitely adds pressure, but it also reminded me how adaptable design has to be — especially under bright lights and tight timelines.
What’s the first color you remember falling in love with—and why?
It’s hard to pinpoint exactly, but I vividly remember being drawn to turquoise as a teenager. I grew up during the Y2K era. At that time, Britney was queen, Juicy Couture tracksuits were the look, and turquoise was everywhere. It felt bold and full of promise — a little bit glam, a little bit rebellious. I wore it, painted with it, maybe even accessorized a bit too enthusiastically with it…
But like most early 2000s obsessions, it fizzled. I loved it hard — and then I couldn’t look at it without cringing. These days, turquoise gives me a mild sensory panic (the same way low-rise jeans probably do for most of us). It’s wild how color can hold memory like that — almost like a scent.
Oddly enough, I also went through a phase of rejecting pink (you know, the classic “I’m not like other girls” thing). Which is ironic, since I now use pink unapologetically in my work!
Is there a color you think is misunderstood or misused? How would you redeem it?
Pink definitely! It’s one of the most misunderstood and underestimated colors out there. Thanks to decades of social conditioning, pink still carries this baggage of “too girly” or “not serious.” I can’t count how many times I’ve heard female clients whisper, “I’d love to use pink here… but my husband probably wouldn’t go for it.” And it’s not just adults. One little boy I worked with told me pink was his favorite color and asked for a disco bedroom full of it — until he got nervous his friends might laugh. So we created a secret pink nook he could close off with curtains, just for him. It broke my heart a little… but also reminded me why this matters. Ironically, pink was originally worn by men — it was seen as a lighter, younger version of red, which symbolized strength and power.
People often judge color in isolation, but pink is a shapeshifter. Pair it with red and it becomes fiery and passionate. Pair it with blue and suddenly you’re in Miami, sipping something with a tiny umbrella. It can be bold, calming, romantic, rebellious… it just depends on how you use it.
So let’s stop treating pink like a guilty pleasure. It deserves a lot more respect — and a lot more walls!
Beyond paint and pillows, what does a truly “happy home” mean to you?
A happy home is one that feels like a reflection of who you are. It’s a space that nurtures you, that welcomes you in and makes you feel alive. It’s about creating an environment where you can relax, recharge, and express yourself without boundaries. A home that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into your own personal joy bubble—now that’s a happy home.
We’ve all been there: staring at a room until our inspiration is as blank as a fresh coat of primer. What’s your go-to cure for a case of designer’s block?
I walk away. Literally. When the ideas aren’t flowing, the worst thing I can do is force them. I get out of the house, go see some street art, wander through a vintage shop, or just take a walk and let my mind drift. I also do a lot of sport — I’m a former vice-champion of Paris in French kickboxing (savate), and nothing clears your head like a round or two in the ring!
Sometimes creativity needs movement — mental and physical. Other times, I’ll play with a mini project first — like reworking a cushion or styling a shelf — and somehow, that small spark brings the bigger vision back to life.
A happy home is one that feels like a reflection of who you are. It’s a space that nurtures you, that welcomes you in and makes you feel alive. It’s about creating an environment where you can relax, recharge, and express yourself without boundaries. A home that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into your own personal joy bubble—now that’s a happy home.
We’ve all been there: staring at a room until our inspiration is as blank as a fresh coat of primer. What’s your go-to cure for a case of designer’s block?
I walk away. Literally. When the ideas aren’t flowing, the worst thing I can do is force them. I get out of the house, go see some street art, wander through a vintage shop, or just take a walk and let my mind drift. I also do a lot of sport — I’m a former vice-champion of Paris in French kickboxing (savate), and nothing clears your head like a round or two in the ring!
Sometimes creativity needs movement — mental and physical. Other times, I’ll play with a mini project first — like reworking a cushion or styling a shelf — and somehow, that small spark brings the bigger vision back to life.
Do you have a “color ritual” or a series of steps you follow when starting a new project to find the perfect palette?
Definitely! I never start with the typical question: ‘What’s your favorite color?”. First, I think about the feeling we want to create in the room. Is it soothing? Energizing? Next, I’ll pull inspiration from real life—photos, memories, even objects my clients already love. I love using a tool like Image Color Picker or Canva to build a palette based on a specific memory or emotion. Once I have a starting point, I experiment with how the colors work together. I rarely settle on the first idea. I let the palette evolve naturally.
Some people are downright afraid of color. What do you wish more people understood about living with vibrant hues? And how do you gently nudge a neutral-lover toward the bold side?
I wish people understood that color can be soothing, energizing, grounding—just like neutrals, but with more personality. It’s not about being “loud” or overwhelming. Color can be as subtle or as bold as you need it to be. For those who love neutrals, I’d suggest starting small—add a pop of color in a small space, like a bathroom or office, and see how it makes you feel. It’s about finding the right balance.
Okay, this might be impossible, but I have to ask: If you were limited to only three colors for the rest of your design career, which would you choose and why?
Pink, blue, and yellow — no hesitation 😉
Pink, because I’m a feminist at heart and I’ll always stand up for this misunderstood color. It’s soft, bold, joyful — and constantly underestimated (much like many women I know).
Blue keeps me grounded. It brings calm and clarity — a beautiful counterbalance to all the boldness.
And yellow? That’s pure sunshine. It energizes everything it touches. If I can’t have the sun, I’ll at least have the color of it
Definitely! I never start with the typical question: ‘What’s your favorite color?”. First, I think about the feeling we want to create in the room. Is it soothing? Energizing? Next, I’ll pull inspiration from real life—photos, memories, even objects my clients already love. I love using a tool like Image Color Picker or Canva to build a palette based on a specific memory or emotion. Once I have a starting point, I experiment with how the colors work together. I rarely settle on the first idea. I let the palette evolve naturally.
Some people are downright afraid of color. What do you wish more people understood about living with vibrant hues? And how do you gently nudge a neutral-lover toward the bold side?
I wish people understood that color can be soothing, energizing, grounding—just like neutrals, but with more personality. It’s not about being “loud” or overwhelming. Color can be as subtle or as bold as you need it to be. For those who love neutrals, I’d suggest starting small—add a pop of color in a small space, like a bathroom or office, and see how it makes you feel. It’s about finding the right balance.
Okay, this might be impossible, but I have to ask: If you were limited to only three colors for the rest of your design career, which would you choose and why?
Pink, blue, and yellow — no hesitation 😉
Pink, because I’m a feminist at heart and I’ll always stand up for this misunderstood color. It’s soft, bold, joyful — and constantly underestimated (much like many women I know).
Blue keeps me grounded. It brings calm and clarity — a beautiful counterbalance to all the boldness.
And yellow? That’s pure sunshine. It energizes everything it touches. If I can’t have the sun, I’ll at least have the color of it
If the zodiac signs were each a color, what would fiery Leo be (asking for a friend… okay, it’s me)? And what color best represents your own sign?
I am a fiery Leo too — so I love this one 🔥
Leos are warm, magnetic, a little dramatic (in the best way), and not afraid to take up space. So I’d say… a rich magenta: part passionate red, part romantic pink, and just enough mystery to keep things interesting.
You’re stranded on a deserted (but beautifully colored) island. What three essential design tools or color swatches are in your survival kit?
Let’s be practical and playful:
I am a fiery Leo too — so I love this one 🔥
Leos are warm, magnetic, a little dramatic (in the best way), and not afraid to take up space. So I’d say… a rich magenta: part passionate red, part romantic pink, and just enough mystery to keep things interesting.
You’re stranded on a deserted (but beautifully colored) island. What three essential design tools or color swatches are in your survival kit?
Let’s be practical and playful:
- A laser distance measurer — ideal for SOS signals… or lining up my beach hut perfectly.
- A classic tape measure — could double as a fishing line in a pinch (very multipurpose!).
- And my trusty color swatch fan — for ventilation, obviously… and maybe just to keep me inspired. If I’m stuck, I might as well be stuck in style
What’s the most memorable reaction you’ve ever had from a client after a big color transformation? (Tears, hugs, happy dances?)
Oh, there’ve been quite a few! Plenty of hugs, sweet thank-you notes, bottles of wine, and the absolute best: drawings from the kids 🖍️💛
One moment that’s really stayed with me was when I designed a room for a toddler. The second she walked in, she didn’t just look around — she used it. She sat straight down at her little desk and started “working” like her parents, totally absorbed. That tiny moment of roleplay? Magic. That’s when I knew the space made sense for her.
And honestly, those spontaneous reactions — the joy, the pride, the “look what I get to live in!” energy — they’re better than any Pinterest board or press feature. That’s the real happy ending.
Since this series is also about tea may I ask? Which one speaks to you?
Earl Grey with Bergamot & Lavender - A classic black tea elevated by bright citrus and floral notes. Sophisticated and calming, with a bit of an unexpected twist.
Earl Grey with Bergamot & Lavender. English breakfast even.
Blue Butterfly Pea Flower Tea - This striking bright blue herbal tea changes color to purple when you add a squeeze of lemon. It’s an instant showstopper and a playful nod to transformation and experimentation.
White Tea with Peach and Osmanthus - A delicate white tea infused with juicy peach and fragrant osmanthus blossoms. Light, floral, and subtly sweet—like drinking a soft summer afternoon.
Tea? Yes or No?
Sugar? Yes or No? If YES how many lumps/spoons. No, but a dash of milk!
Oh, there’ve been quite a few! Plenty of hugs, sweet thank-you notes, bottles of wine, and the absolute best: drawings from the kids 🖍️💛
One moment that’s really stayed with me was when I designed a room for a toddler. The second she walked in, she didn’t just look around — she used it. She sat straight down at her little desk and started “working” like her parents, totally absorbed. That tiny moment of roleplay? Magic. That’s when I knew the space made sense for her.
And honestly, those spontaneous reactions — the joy, the pride, the “look what I get to live in!” energy — they’re better than any Pinterest board or press feature. That’s the real happy ending.
Since this series is also about tea may I ask? Which one speaks to you?
Earl Grey with Bergamot & Lavender - A classic black tea elevated by bright citrus and floral notes. Sophisticated and calming, with a bit of an unexpected twist.
Earl Grey with Bergamot & Lavender. English breakfast even.
Blue Butterfly Pea Flower Tea - This striking bright blue herbal tea changes color to purple when you add a squeeze of lemon. It’s an instant showstopper and a playful nod to transformation and experimentation.
White Tea with Peach and Osmanthus - A delicate white tea infused with juicy peach and fragrant osmanthus blossoms. Light, floral, and subtly sweet—like drinking a soft summer afternoon.
Tea? Yes or No?
Sugar? Yes or No? If YES how many lumps/spoons. No, but a dash of milk!
What You Will Need
1 tsp loose-leaf Earl Grey tea (or 1 Earl Grey tea bag)
1/4 tsp dried lavender buds (culinary grade)
1 thin strip of fresh bergamot zest (or 1–2 drops natural bergamot extract/oil — food grade only)
8 oz (240 ml) freshly boiled water (just off the boil, about 200°F / 93°C)
Optional: Honey, vanilla sugar, or a splash of milk/cream
Instructions. Let's go!
Warm the teapot or cup
Pour a little hot water into your teapot or mug, swirl, and discard. This keeps the tea temperature steady.
Combine the tea & lavender
Place the Earl Grey leaves and lavender buds in an infuser or directly into your teapot/mug.
Add the bergamot
If using fresh zest, add it now. If using bergamot extract/oil, wait until after steeping to add (heat can diminish its brightness).
Pour & steep
Pour hot water over the tea.
Steep 3–4 minutes for a balanced flavor — longer can bring out bitterness.
Finish & serve
If using bergamot extract/oil, add it now.
Sweeten with honey or vanilla sugar if desired. A splash of milk turns it into a floral London Fog.
1 tsp loose-leaf Earl Grey tea (or 1 Earl Grey tea bag)
1/4 tsp dried lavender buds (culinary grade)
1 thin strip of fresh bergamot zest (or 1–2 drops natural bergamot extract/oil — food grade only)
8 oz (240 ml) freshly boiled water (just off the boil, about 200°F / 93°C)
Optional: Honey, vanilla sugar, or a splash of milk/cream
Instructions. Let's go!
Warm the teapot or cup
Pour a little hot water into your teapot or mug, swirl, and discard. This keeps the tea temperature steady.
Combine the tea & lavender
Place the Earl Grey leaves and lavender buds in an infuser or directly into your teapot/mug.
Add the bergamot
If using fresh zest, add it now. If using bergamot extract/oil, wait until after steeping to add (heat can diminish its brightness).
Pour & steep
Pour hot water over the tea.
Steep 3–4 minutes for a balanced flavor — longer can bring out bitterness.
Finish & serve
If using bergamot extract/oil, add it now.
Sweeten with honey or vanilla sugar if desired. A splash of milk turns it into a floral London Fog.
