The Epitome of Elegance
There’s an art to living well, says Wendy Siu, and the founder of Heather & March is here to show you how it’s done
You are not just what you eat, says Wendy Siu; you are how you live, she believes. And she should know, because she has made it her business to give Hongkongers a taste of the refined lifestyle she herself lives and breathes.
Siu is the founder and president of Heather & March, a luxury homewares store that brings some of France’s most respected names in craftsmanship to Hong Kong. Having chalked up nearly 20 years in the business, Heather & March is more than just a bricks-and-mortar store. It is a celebration of the French art de vivre, with Siu presenting etiquette workshops, cooking classes and insights into the sophisticated lifestyle through social media and her personal blog.
Talking about the blog, a new addition to Heather & March’s repertoire, Siu brims with enthusiasm. “I’ve received very positive and encouraging feedback, and I will continue to transmit my know-how and experience the best I can,” she says.
“We are not a large-scale online company, so we are not looking for huge volume when it comes to likes or followers. Instead, we are looking for steady growth and, most importantly, we want to inspire our followers and customers, so they understand why and how to use our products.”
A trip to Heather & March will reveal a trove of treasures, each lovingly sourced by Siu on semi-annual trips to Paris and beyond. You will find exquisite French linen from Noël (“a favourite among nobles and royalty,” says Siu) alongside tablecloths from Le Jacquard Français featuring anti-stain coating, and beautifully painted Chinese bowls from Gien and Raynaud. A recent addition to the shop is René Gabriel’s wine glass, designed to show off all styles of wine to perfection. “I’ve been drinking more champagne since I started working with Laurent-perrier and the glass is perfect for sampling any kind of wine, including refined champagne,” says Siu.
The founder of Heather & March has been working with champagne house Laurent-perrier since July last year, the only Asian woman on the group’s international supervisory board. “It’s been such a fabulous and inspiring ride,” she says.
Siu is clearly passionate about what she does, demonstrating an admirable dedication to giving her all to the tasks she sets herself. “I don’t believe in scratching the surface for quick success, profits or answers; it’s not sustainable,” she says. “I firmly believe that, by building strength, wisdom, skills and knowledge, you will win true success.”
With her classically elegant dress sense and impeccable manners, Siu also exhibits grace and graciousness—characteristics she endeavours to impart to the world through Heather & March. For living well, as Siu points out, is not simply about owning beautiful things. “If you’re not gracious, if you don’t have that sensitivity to people, it doesn’t mean anything.”