Thomas Camilleri is an actor, creative director, small business owner, and vintage enthusiast. Between setting the scene for many creative projects in his role at digital agency Switch, gracing the stage in The Comedy Knights, and running his own small business Lazarus Tiles, we’re thrilled that Thomas was able to talk to us about his favourite We Are Not A Shop picks ahead of Christmas. Here’s what he had to say!
Thomas, we’re so happy you took the time to chat to us today! Could you talk us through some of your favourite We Are Not A Shop pieces?
I’d love to. I have to say that picking just eight items was a very difficult task, but I got there in the end. To start things off, this bust is easily one of my favourites – I love me a bust. And this is such a great copy, too! It’s so versatile, you can really place it anywhere and instantly elevate a space.
Secondly, this toucan clothes brush feels like it was meant for me; I’m always covered in dog hair, so it’ll definitely come in handy. It’s also just a fun, vintage piece. Who knows who’s shoulders it’s brushed?
Then, I had to go for this gorgeous cushion cover (you can never have enough cushions). My living room already has lots of green and red accents, so I think this will be the perfect addition to the décor.
I also adore this tea towel. I think tea towels are often overlooked, to be honest. You should always have a nice set because everyone’s going to see them, right? And why should they only be functional when they can be fun, too?
Finally, I happen to own this ‘How to be a Domestic Goddess’ book myself (although wouldn’t exactly call myself a domestic goddess) and have used it religiously. I think it’s an absolute must-have and would make the perfect gift. It’s already given me so much joy, it would be great to pass that on to someone else.
Great picks, Thomas! Did you choose any of them with someone specific in mind?
Well, I’ll be giving this book to a friend this Christmas that’s for sure.
But I suppose, in a way, I picked all the items with my friends in mind. You see, I love to entertain, so while I did select pieces for me, I was also thinking about the people who will inevitably enjoy them with me.
Nobody’s ever quite articulated it that way, Thomas – well put! Now, we know this is a tough one, but do you have a favourite item?
This Giovanni Bonello book about Valletta is amazing. I’ve often leafed through the copy on my friend Jo’s table and would love to read it in more detail. It’s beautifully put together and expertly written.
How would you describe We Are Not A Shop to someone who doesn’t know about it?
I’d say it’s an online shop with a fantastic selection of gifts that you’d be hard-pressed to find anywhere else.
Now, what do you like about the We Are Not A Shop concept?
I think the cause is one of the best things about it. But, at the same time, the ease of the shopping and the delivery process is equally unparalleled.
Would you recommend We Are Not A Shop to a friend?
Besides recommending it to a friend I would recommend it to myself, especially with the holidays approaching. My family members are all very different and We Are Not A Shop has such a great online selection that it makes shopping for those tricky gifts that much easier!
We’re glad we could be of service, Thomas. Happy shopping!
Want to own a piece of Maltese heritage? Check out Thomas’ Lazarus Tiles for a unique gift with traditional local flare.
