Santa's little ILLUSTRATOR

Keren Fraser, founder of Fledge & Thread, creates handpainted ornaments and whimsical children's pieces that capture the magic of Christmas

- REBECCA HOOTON | PHOTOGRAPHY TRISTAN MCKENZIE

Every year, Keren and her sister end up in hysterics as they attempt to recreate a Christmas cake that their mum used to bake. "We make it the same way every year, but the recipe says things like 'a pinch of this' and 'a dash of that', so we're there going, 'What does this even mean?!'" Keren says with a laugh.

It's one of those festive traditions that may not make much sense, but it brings joy and meaning to the season. "You miss the people who you don't have around anymore, so it's kind of bittersweet at the same time," acknowledges Keren, whose mother's absence is deeply felt.