Words by Aude Camus
French at heart and Hong Kong–based for the past 11 years, this city has long been my home. It’s where I’ve built my life, raised my family and found my rhythm — but also where I’ve come to appreciate, perhaps more than ever, the small French touches that quietly colour my everyday life in the 852.
With this new series, I wanted to shine a light on the French entrepreneurs who’ve chosen Hong Kong as their home — the small, independent businesses bringing a little je ne sais quoi to the city, whether through food, craft, service or sheer passion. Familiar, comforting, inspiring — these are the places and people that make Hong Kong feel just a little more like home to me.
French at heart and Hong Kong–based for the past 11 years, this city has long been my home. It’s where I’ve built my life, raised my family and found my rhythm — but also where I’ve come to appreciate, perhaps more than ever, the small French touches that quietly colour my everyday life in the 852.
With this new series, I wanted to shine a light on the French entrepreneurs who’ve chosen Hong Kong as their home — the small, independent businesses bringing a little je ne sais quoi to the city, whether through food, craft, service or sheer passion. Familiar, comforting, inspiring — these are the places and people that make Hong Kong feel just a little more like home to me.
I’m kicking things off with Coeur de Beurre, a newly launched online baby and kids concept store in Hong Kong, curated for parents who, like me, are constantly on the lookout for pieces that are as practical as they are beautiful.
There’s something about the name Coeur de Beurre that makes me smile — adorable, cosy, comforting and, dare I say it, delicious. Growing up with Brittany roots on my mother’s side, I can tell you we take butter very seriously in France — it’s not just food, it’s feeling. That same sense of warmth and simple joy feels woven into the brand’s ethos.
There’s something about the name Coeur de Beurre that makes me smile — adorable, cosy, comforting and, dare I say it, delicious. Growing up with Brittany roots on my mother’s side, I can tell you we take butter very seriously in France — it’s not just food, it’s feeling. That same sense of warmth and simple joy feels woven into the brand’s ethos.
Its founder, Mélanie, is one of those people you instantly warm to. When we met for coffee, what struck me most was her genuine love for children and her quiet determination to build something meaningful around them. In a time when adult-only spaces are increasingly celebrated — and debates around “no kids” policies have even made headlines back in France — there’s something refreshing about someone creating a space unapologetically centred on little ones.
What I particularly appreciate about Coeur de Beurre is that it isn’t simply about cute clothes and pretty toys — it’s about thoughtful curation. The edit brings together French baby brands and made-in-France (or Europe) children’s labels designed to be lived in and loved. From Les Pas Petits’ charming slippers made for indoor play and outdoor adventures, to Tapilou’s beautifully printed changing mats and stroller mattresses, and Mellipou’s playful musical cushions, the current selection may be small, but it’s carefully chosen. Each piece balances practicality with personality — and the collection is set to grow in the coming months as the concept store evolves.
As a mum who has just welcomed a new baby, I’ve found in Coeur de Beurre a corner of the internet that feels both comforting and inspiring. A place where baby essentials don’t sacrifice charm, and where childhood is treated with tenderness and style (as it should be). It’s a gentle reminder that raising children can still be joyful, elegant and — yes — just a little buttery too.
https://coeurdebeurre.com/ As a mum who has just welcomed a new baby, I’ve found in Coeur de Beurre a corner of the internet that feels both comforting and inspiring. A place where baby essentials don’t sacrifice charm, and where childhood is treated with tenderness and style (as it should be). It’s a gentle reminder that raising children can still be joyful, elegant and — yes — just a little buttery too.
Looking for inspiration on things to do with your little ones? Head to our Family section for more ideas. And don’t miss our interview with Anjali, founder of homegrown brand Malabar Baby — another favourite of mine when it comes to choosing the very best for my daughters.
