Charlie Mason-Pearson is the founder and MD of The Lifestyle Agency, a specialist luxury PR agency based in London. After leaving school at 16, Charlie headed for the bright lights of public relations. First working at WCRS, before honing his craft with a number of different PR agencies including SPA Way ( now Spider PR – family owned), Kitten & Shark (family owned) Richmond Towers, Intelligent PR, Jori White and Neil Reading. He started TLA at 29 and hasn’t looked back, taking over the luxury Pr/social world, one client at a time!
We caught up with Charlie for the latest in our ‘My London’ interview series.
Favourite neighbourhood:
I would have to say Chelsea, it’s where I grew up. Each street, each café, each gallery is so filled with memories with family and friends. It’s also been incredible to see the growth of local businesses within the area over the years; from the new trendy cafes to boutiques and larger retailers, being able to see my home grow, as an entrepreneur, has been nothing short of inspirational.
Favourite place for brunch:
Little House in Mayfair – some may even say I even live there! Not only is the food spectacular but the combined energy between creatives, entrepreneurs and great minds filling the atmosphere around me is the perfect way to start the day.
Best coffee in London:
Fuckoffee on Bermondsey Street. Not only is it within walking distance from TLA HQ but a refreshing change of scenery between meetings with a unique décor and atmosphere that you definitely won’t find in anywhere else.
Favourite gallery or museum:
Saatchi gallery. Not only local to me, but the collections and exhibitions over the years has been so innovative, unique and so tailored to the modern Londoner. A favourite would have to be the CHANEL “Mademoiselle Privé” interactive exhibition a few years ago. I am fascinated how luxury brands take their discipline and share an experiential art form for the public to become immersed in the brand – a key pillar for any brand wanting to succeed these days and what we base our campaigns on.
Tell us a secret:
I’m actually from a PR dynasty! My Mother and sister both own separate PR businesses (Spider PR / Kitten & Shark) and we all sit under one roof (literally and metaphorically!)
Favourite place to shop:
A Day’s March on Berwick Street – can’t go wrong with timeless men’s pieces. I love supporting the smaller luxe brands as opposed to the fast-fashion types, the quality, the story and the attention to detail makes me feel like every piece has been handcrafted just for me!
Favourite place to find inspiration:
Pavillion Road – connecting central London with Chelsea, filled with tiny gorgeous houses in perfect paint colours, and cobbled streets. Old fashioned, boutique style shops and including my gyms Core Collective & KXU.
Best London destination for a date:
Novikov, perhaps my favourite restaurant in London as the food is spectacular so even a date for one… Anyone that says there is somewhere better for sushi does not know fine dining!
Favourite park:
Holland Park – always feels autumnal, even in the summer. The perfect place for dog walks (we have 3 in the office!), a breath of fresh air and to clear the mind.
Favourite food market:
Borough Market and it’s within walking distance from the office, ideal all round! The eclectic mix of vendors and restaurants means you are always spoilt for choice.
Your sanctuary in the city:
Good Hotel, Royal Victoria Dock. A little removed and on the river [literally!] I love the concept, the ethos and the mission they are serving.
What inspires you?
I would say travel inspires me. In every nook and crevice of every beach, every new culture I learn about and every new hotel I experience I see potential and a burst of ideas – it’s hard to switch off sometimes
This season I’m loving:
The ethical approach being taken on by lots of fashion brands – from the transformation of the catwalk seasons to the rise of eco conscious labels. Times are changing!
