LABS Lessons in Life + Work with Laura Giffard, Founder of Perq Studio

2nd May 2018 | 3 min read

web-PERQ-%C2%A9-Michael-Wharley-2018-2-e15253862298281-LABS Lessons in Life + Work with Laura Giffard, Founder of Perq Studio

Perq Studio is a brand and design consultancy that builds customer-first brands for the digital age. With Perq, brands never stand still. Their approach is collaborative to the core, throwing away siloed structures and linear thinking, and bringing together the right team for every project. To celebrate the launch of our new series, LABS Lessons in Life + Work, we asked Perq founder, Laura Giffard, to share her tried-and-tested tips, favourite travel destinations and hidden London haunts…

 

 

Describe your job in one sentence…

I’m the founder of Perq Studio, a brand and design consultancy that builds customer-first brands for the digital age.

 

Describe yourself in one sentence…

I was once described as “a potent blend of English derring-do and Italian inspiration”.

 

What’s your personal definition of ‘success’?

Being paid for something I am good at and enjoy doing, whilst still having quality time with family and friends.

 

What’s the most interesting thing about you that we wouldn’t learn from your CV alone?

I know every word to West Side Story (and can throw in some terrible dancing for good measure!)

 

Tell us about a project or accomplishment that you consider to be the most significant in your career so far.

Starting up Perq Studio, without a doubt.

Turning a daydream into a tangible business is such an exciting journey.

In our first year we’ve worked with some amazing brands, grown the team and found an incredible studio space at LABS.

 

Who is your role model, and why?

Instead of looking for conventional role models, look for people you can learn from. Many people have shaped my thinking, from Austin Kleon to Sheryl Sandberg, all the way through to Kahlil Gibran. 

 

What is your biggest motivator?

Seeing my team and clients get excited about the work we’re doing together. When you get that chemistry, you know you’re onto something good.

 

Surround yourself with people with people who bring excitement and enthusiasm to everyday life.

 

Where’s a place you’ve travelled that you would recommend to anyone?

Brazil will always hold a special place in my heart. I lived there in 2007 and being fully submerged in such an energetic, cultural and beautiful country transformed my outlook on life. I have amazing memories of dancing till dawn at a baile funk, dipping in crystalline waters at Ilha Grande and enjoying the best sushi of my life in São Paulo.

 

What artist do you have on repeat right now?

Camila Cabello – she just sounds like summer.

 

Where would you most want to live?

Right now, London.

This city houses a perfect mix of creativity and opportunity.

I couldn’t think of a better place to start my business and raise my daughter.

 

What makes you feel like you’re living life to the fullest?

When I barely have a moment to stop, but feel totally whole and happy because I am spending my time doing things I love with people I love.

 

What are your favourite places to visit/eat/drink/spend time on weekends at, in London?

The joy of London is that there’s always somewhere new to try! That said, I do have some favourites: The V&A for a spot of culture, Copita for a killer Gin & Tonic and Tuscanic for some authentic Italian fare.

 

If you could give one piece of advice about life what would that be?

Work hard, play harder and be kind.