Each month we ask a known user of The New Shoppingbag about their experiences with the bag and with some aspects of life in general. In the second episode: Mary Hessing. Mary is editor-in-chief of “Eigen Huis & Interieur”, a well known magazine on interior design. She lives together with her husband Toon Lauwen and their 3 children (13, 8 and 5 years).
1. Describe yourself in three words.
Mother, editor-in-chief, friend
2. Where are you now?
At our home – which in the past served as a milk factory!
3. Tell us something about you and The New Shoppingbag
It makes me happy; I use it on a daily basis. It’s a great fit with my laptop bag and Italian umbrella.
4. Tell us something about Susan.
When I entered Susan’s home for an article, I felt an immediate sense of recognition. Her interior design is reflected in her bags – lively and precise, but: no funny stuff.
5. What ecological measures would you take if you ruled the world?
Roof gardens everywhere. Trucks prohibited in the big cities. I think we should repack their cargo and use the tram systems at night to move it instead!
6. How do you brighten up your existence?
My children are responsible for that – it is all been taken care of. Furthermore I try to laugh as often as possible. Doing something you really like also helps a lot.
7. Which part does colour play in that process?
Colour is important. I like to toy around with it – fashion is a good example. I’m always looking for an unexpected, inspired combination. I hate being dull.
8. Which music have you been listening to recently?
“Happy” by Pharrell Williams and “Whatever Lola Wants”, a Sarah Vaughan song performed by Gotan Project. Plus an old favourite: Godley & Creme’s “An Englisman in New York”.
9. What’s is your biggest loss?
My mother died, eleven years ago. It still saddens me, every day.
10. What is your ultimate destination?
Reach a very old age, in a graceful manner. And if possible: still in some way creatively active. Lot’s of grand children and health for everyone.