For fashion executive Alison Loehnis, driving the success of Net-a-Porter and its subsidiaries (her primary occupation for the better part of the past 20 years) was a no-brainer. Same goes for her selection of an ideal Long Lunch date. Melissa Morris, the founder of the luxury leather goods purveyor Métier, and Alison share a love of purposeful design, exceptional craftsmanship, and retro seafood. No wonder they are completely in their element at The Park. Over Champagne, they caught up on all matters of importance, including Alison’s new role as a senior advisor to the consumer and retail investment banking team at J.P. Morgan, and Métier’s new boutique in New York’s Soho neighbourhood.
ALISON SAYS… “For me, a long lunch is all about great company, a venue you look forward to visiting, and a clear diary. I’m always looking for a companion with plenty of wit and wisdom, which is why I invited my dear friend Melissa. Today, I ordered my usual—shrimp cocktail and a Cobb salad. It’s a perfect way to get my American-food fix.”
Best advice you’ve ever received: “Always accept a compliment. Refusing one is the equivalent of returning a gift.”
ALISON’S DOSSIER
Birthplace: New York City.
Neighbourhood: West London.
“Short” lunch strategy: A walk-and-talk, or lunch at the bar at Arlington.
Cocktail: A skinny spicy margarita.
Workout: A run.
Bookstore: Daunt Books.
Favourite park: Central Park.
What else are you working on? I’m on the board of Lululemon, an advisor in Active Partners, and doing plenty of travelling.
Any recommendations for us? The film One Battle After Another, and the Wayne Courtauld exhibition at Somerset House.
MELISSA’S DOSSIER
Birthplace: Philadelphia.
Neighbourhood: Ladbroke Grove.
“Short” lunch strategy: I usually have a salad with slow-release carbs like sweet potato, so I get the energy I need without the afternoon crash.
Cocktail: A dirty vodka martini.
Workout: Yoga at Love Supreme Projects and Pilates at Heartcore.
Bookstore: Heywood Hill.
Favourite park: I love strolling through Regents Park and finishing with a walk along the canal.
Any recommendations for us? Jay Kelly, Broken English, Train Dreams. I loved these movies. I am also excited to check out the Blondie exhibition at the Barbican.