A Celebration of Pattern, Colour & Craft: My Latest Collaboration with Jo Deakin
One of the joys of my work is collaborating with designers whose passion and creative energy feel genuinely infectious. My recent collaboration with Jo Deakin has been exactly that — a beautiful meeting of shared values, a love of design, and a belief in elevating the everyday through thoughtful detail.
From the moment you encounter Jo’s fine bone china or her newly launched table linens, you can feel the heart and intentionality behind each piece. In our conversation, Jo shared the story behind her brand, the inspirations guiding her newest collection, and the little rituals that make a table - and a moment - truly memorable.
The Story Behind the Brand
Jo’s brand was born from an intersection of her passions: design, quality craftsmanship, geometric pattern, and of course - tea.
“With a background in interior design,” she told me, “I’ve always had an eye for putting pattern and colour together. Style is so important to me; it makes us individual in both our homes and our lives.”
Every piece she creates is made in England, using the finest quality Stoke-on-Trent craftsmanship - a commitment that anchors the brand’s identity.
But the heart of Jo’s work is about something deeper: slowing down.
“I wanted to create products that could be mixed and matched to suit all tastes and moods. I believe carving out small parts of one’s day helps to restore and revive ourselves. Whether it’s putting the kettle on or creating a beautiful dinner party, these moments become even more special when you use pieces that elevate the experience.”
The Inspiration Behind the New Table Linens
While Jo’s love of tea is legendary, her passion for the table extends far beyond the cup.
“I love dressing the table for any occasion - an intimate dinner or a gathering of 10. Sitting around the table brings people closer and forms bonds that enhance our well-being.”
After producing a range of plates and bowls, linens were the natural next step. Designed with the same ethos of mix-and-match versatility, the new linens soften and complement her crisp white china, adding another layer of warmth, tactility, and personality to any setting.
Jo’s Approach to a Memorable Table Setting
This is where Jo made me blush - she said she’s learned a lot from me!
But in truth, Jo’s styling instincts shine through every detail.
She shared a few of her favourite techniques:
- Layering candlelight at different heights
- Playing with mirrored plates for added depth
- Choosing pretty glassware for colour and sparkle
- Using flowers and linens to soften and harmonise the table
These small touches bring a table to life and help blend her geometric designs into a beautifully cohesive scene.
Everyday Elevation: Jo’s Top Tip
Her advice for making everyday entertaining feel special is simple and utterly charming:
“Whether it’s lunch for one or a gala dinner for 12, always dress the table in some way — light a candle, offer a napkin, place a side plate beside the setting. Choose a special cup and saucer for your afternoon tea, serve treats on a beautiful plate. It’s the littlest things that go the furthest.”
A Dream Table Guest
If Jo could set the table with anyone, past or present, her choice is heartfelt:
“My late granny. She loved to cook and was a wonderful homemaker. I was young when she passed away and I hadn’t yet discovered my passion for the home. To set the table with her would be magical — she’d give me all the tips and probably make me use her china too!”
What’s Next for Jo Deakin?
The launch of the new linens marks an exciting milestone - Jo’s first venture beyond fine bone china.
The linens are produced by an Irish family business in Northern Ireland, keeping true to her commitment to UK-made craftsmanship. They’ll launch in the coming week, and Jo is eagerly awaiting how customers will respond.
Beyond the linens, Jo is developing gift collections that pair new and existing pieces - just in time for the festive season. And if all goes well, she hopes to introduce a beautiful table runner, a simple yet transformative addition for layering texture and style.
A Final Note
Working with Jo is a reminder of why I adore what I do: the joy of thoughtful design, the power of shared creativity, and the simple beauty of gathering around a table. Her pieces don’t just decorate a home - they enrich the rituals that make our days feel special.
With much love Anna xxx
