Interview by Aude Camus
Fun fact – did you know there are exactly 16 weeks until Christmas Day? Ok, I might be getting slightly ahead of myself, but a recent conversation with Anna Villefranque — founder of Vi Galerie — had me thinking about Christmas already. I could almost smell cinnamon rolls and pine, and hear the carols… read on and you’ll see why.
But before we let the festive magic take over, bright, sunny, dry days are ahead of us, so let’s soak them up — you might even pick up some ideas for chilled family days out from Anna’s favourite spots around town.
About her: From waiting tables in Moscow as a student to managing luxury events for brands like Chanel, Anna has always known the power of creating experiences that make people feel something. But it was a move to Hong Kong with her pastry-chef husband — and the global pandemic — that sparked her next chapter. What began in 2021 as a way to bring Christmas cheer to a city far from home has evolved into Vi Galerie, an online homeware store built on versatile, affordable pieces designed to mix, match, and tell your own story.
We caught up with the founder, mum, and serial dreamer to chat about the small touches that matter, finding inspiration around the globe, and her vision for a full-blown Christmas wonderland in the heart of Hong Kong.
You went from hospitality in Moscow to running a homeware store in Hong Kong. What’s one lesson from your hospitality days that you still apply to Vi Galerie?
I’m passionate about the idea of exceeding customer expectations. Even though I don’t often meet our customers in person (yet), I love adding a thank-you note, a personal promo code, or simply checking in for feedback. Small touches really do make a big difference.
The first Vi Galerie collection was born from a Christmas project during the pandemic. Do you remember the exact moment you thought, “This could become something bigger”?
Fun fact – did you know there are exactly 16 weeks until Christmas Day? Ok, I might be getting slightly ahead of myself, but a recent conversation with Anna Villefranque — founder of Vi Galerie — had me thinking about Christmas already. I could almost smell cinnamon rolls and pine, and hear the carols… read on and you’ll see why.
But before we let the festive magic take over, bright, sunny, dry days are ahead of us, so let’s soak them up — you might even pick up some ideas for chilled family days out from Anna’s favourite spots around town.
About her: From waiting tables in Moscow as a student to managing luxury events for brands like Chanel, Anna has always known the power of creating experiences that make people feel something. But it was a move to Hong Kong with her pastry-chef husband — and the global pandemic — that sparked her next chapter. What began in 2021 as a way to bring Christmas cheer to a city far from home has evolved into Vi Galerie, an online homeware store built on versatile, affordable pieces designed to mix, match, and tell your own story.
We caught up with the founder, mum, and serial dreamer to chat about the small touches that matter, finding inspiration around the globe, and her vision for a full-blown Christmas wonderland in the heart of Hong Kong.
You went from hospitality in Moscow to running a homeware store in Hong Kong. What’s one lesson from your hospitality days that you still apply to Vi Galerie?
I’m passionate about the idea of exceeding customer expectations. Even though I don’t often meet our customers in person (yet), I love adding a thank-you note, a personal promo code, or simply checking in for feedback. Small touches really do make a big difference.
The first Vi Galerie collection was born from a Christmas project during the pandemic. Do you remember the exact moment you thought, “This could become something bigger”?
At our very first Christmas market, someone said: “Finally, real Christmas stuff here!” It struck a chord with us — there weren’t many options for quality festive décor that didn’t cost a fortune. That moment of validation is gold for any entrepreneur; it’s when you know your idea truly resonates.
What’s the biggest misconception people have about running a small business in Hong Kong?
That AI makes it easy. I recently had someone tell me it’s now a breeze to run a business and make money thanks to these tools. While AI can simplify processes, it doesn’t guarantee your products will meet market demands. Building something successful still takes time, effort — and often more hours than a 9-to-6 job.
Where do you find inspiration for your product selection?
What’s the biggest misconception people have about running a small business in Hong Kong?
That AI makes it easy. I recently had someone tell me it’s now a breeze to run a business and make money thanks to these tools. While AI can simplify processes, it doesn’t guarantee your products will meet market demands. Building something successful still takes time, effort — and often more hours than a 9-to-6 job.
Where do you find inspiration for your product selection?
Worldwide! I scour the globe — both online and, of course, when travelling. I’m always on the lookout for hidden gems, especially small local businesses that stand out for their marketing, product range, or simply the love they put into what they do.
If you could describe Vi Galerie’s style in a single sentence, what would it be?
If you could describe Vi Galerie’s style in a single sentence, what would it be?
Essential homeware staples that form the perfect canvas for your creative flair.
How do you balance running a business with family life — do you set boundaries or is it all happily blurred?
Until recently, I was a full-time mum, and I found myself emotionally and physically drained. That didn’t help my motherhood journey, or my business. Now, I choose to focus on work when I’m working, and cherish family time without distractions.
What’s the best thing motherhood has taught you that you also use as an entrepreneur?
To act instead of overthinking. There’s no manual for perfect parenting, when the moment comes, you just perform. I don’t wait for the “right” time or more knowledge anymore; I just get things done.
How do you balance running a business with family life — do you set boundaries or is it all happily blurred?
Until recently, I was a full-time mum, and I found myself emotionally and physically drained. That didn’t help my motherhood journey, or my business. Now, I choose to focus on work when I’m working, and cherish family time without distractions.
What’s the best thing motherhood has taught you that you also use as an entrepreneur?
To act instead of overthinking. There’s no manual for perfect parenting, when the moment comes, you just perform. I don’t wait for the “right” time or more knowledge anymore; I just get things done.
Where in Hong Kong do you go when you need a dose of inspiration?
On a new hike, ideally off the city — somewhere in Sai Kung. After seven years here, I’m still amazed at how the concrete jungle is surrounded by azure bays and lush green hills.
Favourite spots for a weekend with family?
We’re based in Discovery Bay, so beach walks and open-air playtime with our daughter are regular favourites. We love hopping over to the nearby islands too. If we spend a day in the city, my perfect combo is a massage at Tai Pan Reflexology Parlour, a casual lunch at Din Tai Fung, coffee from Arabica, and a scenic Star Ferry ride.
A Hong Kong shop (other than Vi Galerie!) you love browsing for beautiful things?
MiliMilu. Even after nearly two years of being a mum, I still can’t get enough of cute little things. I also love their commitment to quality and sustainability.
What’s one hidden corner of the city you’d tell your best friend to visit?
Not exactly hidden, but Nan Lian Garden. Everyone I’ve recommended it to has been charmed by its serenity — just as I was and still am, on every visit.
You mentioned dreaming of hosting a Vi Galerie Christmas wonderland one day in Hong Kog where your customers could ‘relive their most cherished festive memories’ — if we walked into it tomorrow, what would we see, hear, and smell?
Let me keep the details under wraps for now, but picture that scene from Home Alone 2 when Kevin enters Duncan’s Toy Chest — that’s the ifeeling I want people to have.
What’s next for Vi Galerie in the coming year?
We’re busy with our upcoming Christmas collection. This year, we’re launching a Festive Fragrance section that goes beyond candles — think reed diffusers, soy wax melts, and air fresheners to fill your home with the real scent of Christmas.
What’s next for Vi Galerie in the coming year?
We’re busy with our upcoming Christmas collection. This year, we’re launching a Festive Fragrance section that goes beyond candles — think reed diffusers, soy wax melts, and air fresheners to fill your home with the real scent of Christmas.
But wait, there's more ...
Anna isn’t the only entrepreneur in Hong Kong committed to bringing a little festive magic into our lives (and year-round joy). Discover our interview with Claire, the founder of The Lion Rock Press and Roksaan.
