An Interview with Gemma Teague | Coastal Living with Atlantic Blankets
As part of our summer collection, we partnered with Cornish lifestyle brand Atlantic Blankets to create a limited edition beach blanket. We caught up with Gemma the founder of our favourite coastal brand on beach life, and her inspiration behind the brand.
1. What was your inspiration to start Atlantic Blankets?
My journey with Atlantic Blankets began as I navigated the joys of motherhood alongside a fulfilling career. Welcoming my first child illuminated the importance of aligning our passions with our daily lives, seeking a path that offered both flexibility and fulfilment.
Growing up by the sea, I developed a profound appreciation for its beauty and the coastal lifestyle. Upon returning to Cornwall, my partner Alistair and I co-founded Atlantic Blankets. Alistair's background in Interior Design brought invaluable expertise to our venture. Inspired by our coastal surroundings, we set out to create sustainable blankets that embody our admiration for the sea's natural allure.
Blankets hold a special magic—they gather people together, whether for cosy indoor evenings or outdoor gatherings. Recognising this, we were inspired to integrate this warmth and togetherness into our own family life and share it with others.
2. What is your mission with Atlantic Blankets?
Our mission at Atlantic Blankets is to craft beautiful, sustainable blankets inspired by our deep love for the ocean. Beyond providing comfort, we aim to inspire others to cherish and safeguard our seas.
Founded in the heart of the Cornish coast, the Atlantic Ocean is not just central to our work but also to our identity. It serves as our muse and our sanctuary, where we find solace and reconnect with nature.
Each blanket in our collection is thoughtfully crafted to evoke a sense of connection and appreciation for the ocean's beauty. Through our products, we hope to inspire more people to embrace the natural world and enjoy the comfort and warmth that our blankets provide.
We believe that the more you cherish something, the stronger your commitment to protect it.
3. What are your favourite things about summer?
Summer is full of things I absolutely love. First and foremost, there's the joy of beach BBQs and picnics. Gathering with friends, smelling the delicious food cooking, hearing the waves crashing nearby, and simply enjoying each other's company—it's hard to beat that feeling.
And then, there's surfing. Drifting on my board under the warm sun is pure exhilaration. Discovering secret spots where the crowds are thinner, or catching the tide before the holiday rush begins—it's all part of the thrill.
But what really captures the essence of summer for me are the enchanting evening sunsets on the beach. Watching the sky transform into shades of pink, orange, and gold as the sun dips below the horizon is the ultimate way to unwind.
4. Where is your favourite beach in Britain?
There are so many gorgeous beaches, not only in our home county of Cornwall, but all over the UK coast. I remember 15 years ago being introduced to the Northumberland coast and being blown away by it’s beauty.
But my heart belongs to Perranporth. It’s not only stunning, but its where I feel safe and at home. Every time I surf there’s always a friendly face to greet me. Moreover it’s where our family are part of the Perranporth Surf Life Saving club, spending five days a week during the summer
engaged in beach and sea activities, never tiring of the conditions, view or sunsets.
In 2023, Atlantic Blankets became Reserve Guardians of Penhale Dunes, one of the largest dune systems and a nature reserve right on our doorstep, managed by Cornwall Wildlife Trust. To be able to play our role in helping to protect our much loved beach and surrounding area is something we're fiercely proud of.
5. What’s your favourite ever beach memory?
Growing up by the coast and raising my own children there, I have countless cherished beach memories. One that
particularly stands out is a friendship forged through our shared love of surfing. A group of ladies from Perranporth and I started an annual getaway where we ventured south to surf until we were exhausted.
During our first trip, we ended up at Gwenver Beach, catching the smallest waves but having lots of fun, spending hours in the water. We'd take short breaks to snack on pain au chocolate and our favourite chocolate soya milk, and even squeezed in some yoga sessions before heading back into the waves. We stayed on the beach, laughing and dancing in our wetsuits until the sun set.
6. What three things do you always add to your beach bag?
These are always in my bag, whether its a beach bag or handbag!
1. Green People Sunscreen - it's my daily go-to for sun protection, always by my side and absolutely essential.
2. Swimming goggles - I can't resist a swim and exploring underwater wonders, so goggles are a must-have.
3. A cosy blanket of course! - Whether I need something to sit on or to wrap myself in during cooler evenings, a cosy blanket is indispensable. Currently, I've got my eye on the beautiful Sundaze Beach Blanket for future adventures.