CHANTAL COADY

SO, WHERE DID IT ALL START?
Chocolate was a childhood obsession. I worked selling chocolates at a certain luxury department store in London, and was surprised at how boring the ‘best’ chocolates were. From then onwards, I decided to indulge in my wildest chocolate dreams!

WHAT HELPS YOU THROUGH A PARTICULARLY LONG DAY?
A good bicycle ride. I’ve cycled to Paris and back! Other things include tea, and a really good piece of dark chocolate. A good breakfast keeps me going. I created my own special ‘Power Granola’; it’s delicious, and I’ve included the recipe in my new book.

DO YOU HAVE A MUSE, OR AN IDOL?
Paul Smith, Vivienne Westwood… People who do their own thing without worrying what people think.

LIST SOME OF YOUR BEST CHARACTERISTICS, AND SOME OF YOUR WORST...
I’m so disorganised – I’ve not got a P.A, and I’m always juggling things. I’d say that for my best characteristic…hmm. Throw me in at the deep end! I quite like flying by the seat of my pants, and react positively to a bit of pressure. I’m creative at heart, not a micro-detail sort of person – I can’t stand lengthy business meetings.