Martine Cajkler is an ex Staff nurse who gave up her life in the UK to move to the idyllic Greek island of Meganisi in the Ionian Sea and although she misses the job that she loved so much, it was all worth it for the life that she now leads on the beautiful island. She is married with two grown up children and is now a grandma to 2 wonderful granddaughters who like to call her “nanny”.
Meikie Designs asked Annie Dixon from Writing and Blogging to find out more from Martine about how her designs are now adding colour to a beautiful villa in the Ionian Sea.
1. How did you hear about Meikie designs?
I originally viewed two of Meikie's silk paintings in a villa and instantly fell in love with them. I was living at the time in Nottinghamshire and I went on line to see if she was doing an exhibition anywhere near where I lived. I went with my husband to see one of Meikie's exhibits and commissioned two silk paintings for our villa, which was in the process of being built at the time.
2. Tell us about some of the things that you have bought from Meikie.
It would probably be easier to tell you what I haven't purchased! Following on from the two paintings, I purchased table place mats and matching coasters as well as two trays and four wonderful glass counter savers, which I absolutely love. This was followed by 2 very large prints and my latest purchases are her wonderful cushions, which I am absolutely thrilled with. Living in Greece, I have to rely on Internet pictures, but I was not disappointed as the colours are beautiful and the material is lovely and soft to the touch.
3. How have the items you have purchased enhanced your room/s?
It's given my villa the "wow" factor as I have chosen Mediterranean colours that look fabulous against the white walls and furniture and glorious in all of my rooms - the lounge, dining room, kitchen, staircase and bedrooms.
4. Are you planning on purchasing more products from Meikie?
Meikie has recently started to make jewellery and I am very tempted by some of her pieces, which would be fabulous for not only me but my friends as well. I'm sure I will more than likely be tempted for future purchases very soon.
5. What style best describes your home?
My villa is very modern with large picture windows looking out to the sea and infinity pool. It is open plan and my style is minimaliste with white gloss furniture, pale grey leather sofas and floor tiles. The bursts of colour that come with Meikie's pieces really bring it to life.
6. I understand the items have been shipped to Greece – has this worked well for you?
Shipping has worked really well. Meikie has used Mica instead of glass on her pictures which looks great and there is no fear of breakages. She is very accommodating and I have phoned and emailed to organise transport details and she is really good at keeping me informed with what is happening. She is well aware that I live on a remote island and that only certain parcel carriers are helpful because of this. Her packaging is excellent and we have had no problems whatsoever.
7. Would you like to add anything more about Meikie and her designs?
Her designs are quite amazing and I have had some insight into the amount of work that goes into these bespoke silk paintings. It takes hours and hours to make them and it's amazing that we can have these wonderful colours on glass, tablemats, material and other items. Her products cannot fail to enhance any home whether it’s traditional, contemporary, period or modern. I am just so pleased I found Meikie's designs, as I don't think I could have achieved the effect I have in my home without them.
8. What do you like to do in your spare time?
I love to walk and I am fortunate to be surrounded by breathtaking views and nature. I enjoy swimming in the sea, sailing with friends and pottering in my garden.
9. And finally?
Just a big thank you to Meikie for all her very hard work and hope that she also finds some time for herself, as I know she works extremely hard.
Thank you Martine for your time.
