Born in South Africa, Kelly Hoppen, 65, created her first interior design project at 16. Her portfolio spans commercial properties, hotels, cruise ships and private homes. From 2013 to 2015, she appeared on the BBC show Dragons’ Den, and she has published 13 books. In 2009, she was awarded an MBE, and in 2021 she was appointed a CBE for promoting British creativity and business. This month, she launched a homeware range with M&S. She has been married twice, raised a daughter and two stepdaughters, and lives in London and the Cotswolds with her partner.
What is the trait you most deplore in yourself?
Fear of flying.
What is the trait you most deplore in others?
I can’t bear people who lie.
What was your most embarrassing moment?
Years ago in a safari park in South Africa, and getting all dressed up for dinner. Walking across the lawn, I didn’t realise there was a swimming pool that hadn’t been lit and walked straight into the shallow end fully clothed. It still haunts me. I remember trying to get out as if no one would notice.
Describe yourself in three words
Fiercely loyal, funny, easy-going. I’m sure my daughter and stepdaughters wouldn’t agree with the last bit, but I think I am.
What do you most dislike about your appearance?
I always wanted to be taller. I am only 5ft 5in.
What is your most unappealing habit?
Chewing Nicorette.
If you could bring something extinct back to life, what would you choose?
Marilyn Monroe. I am obsessed with her; I would love to have met her.
What scares you about getting older?
Nothing: I live in the now.
Who is your celebrity crush?
Olivia Colman.
Which book are you ashamed not to have read?
All of them. I’m not someone who can sit down and read – I wish I could.
What did you want to be when you were growing up?
A travel agent.
What is the worst thing anyone’s said to you?
“Your cooking sucks” – before I learned to cook in Covid.
To whom would you most like to say sorry, and why?
My mum. I was horrendous growing up – I was always arguing with her.
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What does love feel like?
When my daughter and my stepdaughters were feeling unhappy, we used to pretend to unlock something in their heart and then pour golden liquid into them, and it always warmed them. For me, that’s what love feels like – a warm feeling inside.
What has been your biggest disappointment?
I had an opportunity many years ago to move to America and be given a daytime TV show. The kids were quite young and I decided not to, but looking back I wish I had done it.
How often do you have sex?
Enough, but probably not enough.
Would you rather have more sex, money or fame?
Sex, because I’ve got all of the others.
What is the most important lesson life has taught you?
Living life to the full, not having regrets and not trying to plan your future too much. Just enjoy every minute.
What happens when we die?
I don’t know and I don’t really care, because I’ll be dead, so it won’t really matter.