ALEXIS KO / ELSPETH

Elspeth At Home

In this series of images, we take a peek behind the tartan curtain to glimpse into the home life of Elspeth, an Edinburgh socialite known for her effortless elegance, glittering glamour, and for never being without a cigarette in hand.

Empire biscuits
Elle, as her close friends call her, is a fervent baker, and here we see her adding the final touches to her infamous Empire Biscuits — a Scottish staple always found at her gatherings. Though skilled in the kitchen, she’s not the tidiest and relies on a strong coffee and a couple of cigarettes to get her through the process. Elspeth takes great care to ensure her Empire Biscuits look as immaculate as she does, so you might say that her approach to baking mirrors her life: messy behind the scenes, but always flawlessly presented… heaven forbid she gets royal icing on her pearl bracelet!

Brunch
Elspeth’s favourite meal of the day is brunch, especially when she can share it with one of her chums. Ever the traditionalist, she adores a full Scottish breakfast, haggis and black pudding to boot, but she also believes that no brunch is complete without an oyster and glass of bubbles with which to wash it down! The croissants are warmed, the bread is toasted, and the eggs are boiled… and her favourite Chanel lipstick is always on hand should she need a quick touch up.

Festive gathering
Elspeth is known for her social gatherings, and none is more famed than her annual Christmas party. Relishing in the delights of the festive season, Elle adorns her dining table with the finest food and drink around which those lucky enough to receive an invite can feast. Dessert is her favourite course, and amidst the table of sweeties and chocolates, homemade whisky mince pies and her empire biscuits (of course) is the crowning glory, her jewelled Christmas pudding. Accompanied by a wee glass of sherry or a dram from a bottle of the best Bolly, Elspeth’s Christmas pud is the only way to round off jolly evening! Alexis Ko

Art Direction and Prop Styling: Tim Schilling and [www.alexisko.com]Alexis Ko
Photography: [www.alexisko.com]Alexis Ko
Food Styling: Tim Schilling
Model: Jennifer Daley