The Tastemakers Series: Edge Of Ember Founder, Lynette Ong
To celebrate International Women’s Day, this Tastemakers Series instalment looks to one of our favourite jewellery brand founders. We sat down with Lynette Ong, Founder of Edge of Ember, to find out all about her favourites places to eat, shop and travel to in 2023.
Back in 2014, Lynette Ong quit her job in finance to explore her love for artisan jewellery. Fast forward almost a decade and she heads up one of the UK’s top sustainable jewellery brands, Edge of Ember. It’s now stocked in the likes of Harvey Nichols and has been spotted on everyone from A-listers Megan Markle to influencer Aimee Johnson. The look is dainty everyday jewels that bring polish and personality to every look, whether that’s a trusty pair of gold hoops or a vintage-inspired chain necklace, annd the message is clear – fine jewellery that’s affordable and good to the planet.
Lynette hasn’t always called London home, moving to the city to join her husband. Now it really is, with a house in Primrose Hill, weekends spent gift shopping at on Columbia Road and a little black book of recommendations. We tracked Lynette down to hear them all. Here’s what she had to say…
Where do you live in London and what do you love about it?
Primrose Hill – I live next to the park and I love how it feels like I’m in a little green oasis in a big city. I feel very lucky to enjoy the fresh air and green space yet still be in central London.
What’s your favourite local restaurant you return to time and time again?
Lemonia – a family-run Greek restaurant that’s been there for 40 years and is always as crowded, even on a Monday night. They’ve had the same menu over the years and they have the best aubergine dip, halloumi and meat shashlik.
I always return to Lemonia - a family-run Greek restaurant that's been there for 40 years and is always as crowded, even on a Monday night.
Where would you book for a cosy date-night?
Delamina, a really cute small cosy restaurant with really good food. It reminds me of places in my neighbourhood I used to go to when I live in Soho, New York.
Where do you love to spend the weekend with the family?
Kensington Gardens. I love the wide open spaces, sitting there with wine and cheese with friends for hours, while the kids play near the lake and dog is running around. Bliss.
Best restaurant for a special dinner out?
Current favourite is Cavita, a new Mexican restaurant in Marylebone. Great food and margaritas.
For a special one that’s a bit quieter, I love Petersham Nurseries – the space just feels so considered and special.
What’s your go-to for ordering in?
Whenever I need my comfort, it has to be Asian food. The Royal China Club is the best and Dishoom is a close second.
Where is your favourite place for a healthy lunch?
Wild by Tart – the food is all locally sourced and they use produce that’s in season, which I love. Everything is fresh, healthy, and literally every single dish is so tasty. I love the decor and ambience there too.
Best coffee shop?
I love Monocle in Marylebone, although, admittedly more for the shopping browse than the coffee.
Do you have a favourite book store in London?
Primrose Hill Book Store on my high street. It is a small, cosy and quaint bookshop that feels like a little traditional treasure not engulfed by the commercial wave of huge bookstore chains.
You’re originally from Singapore. Any tips for places to stay, eat, see?
Stay in the Tiong Bahru area where there are lots of cute shops and coffee places.
You’ll eat so much good food – we’re a country of people obsessed with food! The great thing is that you can go for fancy trendy restaurants – a few favourites are Col, Burnt Ends and Revolver – or you can get amazing street food at the Hawker Centres.
Go see the whole Marina Bay Sands area, too. The skyline and architecture is fascinating, I still feel like a tourist in my own country whenever I’m there.
Where is great for finding unique gifts?
I love Portobello Market or Columbia Road.
What are your favourite interiors brands?
Rockett St George, Matilda Goad and Soho Home are my go-tos.
What’s the last thing you bought for your wardrobe?
A shearling coat that’s kept me very warm this winter.
If you had to choose three hero pieces from Edge of Ember’’s new collection, what would they be?
The Initial & Birthstone Necklace, as it has been our bestseller for the last five years. The Visionary Necklace – everyone loves an evil eye good luck charm and it shot to fame when Meghan Markle wore it. And lastly, the Malachite Necklace – one of our bestsellers from our collaboration with Victoria Magrath.
Who would you love to see wearing the brand who hasn’t already?
Emma Watson – I love her style and what she stands for.
What are the three beauty products you couldn’t live without?
My Overnight Leave-In Moisturiser Mask – I use it every night. I’ve tried many and I find Origin’s the most moisturising and really well priced.
The Sunday Riley Juno Face Oil, which I add it to my moisturiser. It’s such a skin-saver, especially in the winter!.
The Aesop Body Cream in geranium leaf. I use it on my hands and it’s my favourite scent ever. Actually, I love anything by Aesop.
What does your fitness routine look like? Any favourite classes?
I don’t really have much of a routine, but I try to squeeze in small exercise sessions whenever possible. I love Hatha yoga and usually go to my local Triyoga. Sometimes when I don’t have time, I do an Alo yoga class on their app. Otherwise I have a cross trainer at home and try to use it two to three times a week even if it’s just for 20 minutes. These little spurts of workouts keep my energy levels up.
Let’s talk travel. What’s on your list for 2023?
Sicily! It has always been on my list, but now even more so after watching The White Lotus.
Sicily has always been on travel wish list, but now even more so after watching The White Lotus.
Where is your favourite UK country hotel?
Babington House is probably my favourite, although we usually get a country house in the Cotswolds with friends as it’s a lot more fun – for us and the kids! Unique Homestays is a great website with amazing houses available to rent.
And what about abroad?
Definitely Ibiza for the beach definitely. We usually stay in the centre, near the San Juan area. And for a city break, it has to be Paris. I loved staying at the Maison Souquet in the Pigalle area last time I was there.
Shop the full Edge of Ember collection at edgeofember.com
Or, follow the brand on Instagram @edgeofember
The products on this page have been selected by our editorial team, however, The Handbook may make a small commission on some products purchased through affiliate links.
