Sweet Paul On Cooking, Crafting, and Big Men’s Style

Paul Lowe from Sweet Paul

Photo: Colin Cooke, Studio BC

When Paul Lowe moved from Oslo, Norway to New York City, he had no idea he’d end up creating Sweet Paul, the amazingly successful cooking and crafting brand that bears his name. With millions of website visitors per year, magazines printed and released seasonally, and an army of followers on social media, he’s showing no signs of stopping. I talked to Paul about the origins of Sweet Paul, making recipes fun, and never being afraid to stand out.

Where did your passion for cooking and crafting come from? Is it something you’ve always been into?
I have it in my blood. I was raised by my grandmother and great aunt and they where two very crafty little old ladies. They had great taste and they would fill my days with cooking and crafting.

How did Sweet Paul come to be?
It started as a blog where I showed off my work. When the whole online magazine thing happened I thought, “I can do that”. So I started it mostly as a hobby. It just took off and here I am.

Paul Lowe of Sweet Paul Magazine

Photo: Colin Cooke, Studio BC

One of the things I like about the projects you share are creative, interesting, and they look great, but they’re actually things that I feel like I can do. Is that something you’re aware of when you create your projects and recipes?
Totally. I don’t come up with these things to just show how clever I am, I want to create projects and recipes that you can make. The perfect project to me if you can take something you have around the house and transform it to something fab, thats amazing to me.

How would you describe your style?
Nordic simplicity meets American vintage.

When you’re a bigger guy, it can be difficult to find clothing in the sizes you need and the styles you’re into. Do you have any favorite places to shop?
I’m a total Ralph boy. I love good well made clothes that I can mix with some vintage. My go to places are Polo Ralph Lauren, Rochester and ebay.

paul-three

Photo: Colin Cooke, Studio BC

Paul Lowe’s Style Tips for Big Guys:

  1. Don’t wear clothes that are too big. I know big guys like clothes that hide their bodies, but that will only make you look bigger.
  2. Get a tailor. No clothes are perfect, not even for skinny people. Most things need to be adjusted. A tailor can also make you clothes. Bring pictures that you like, and have him make that in your size. It’s not always so expensive.
  3. Be unique. Just because you’re a big guy doesn’t mean you have to blend in. Find your own style.
  4. [Focus on] quality. Buy good quality pieces – it’s better to have less than more. Well made clothes can last for years and years.

What’s next for you?
A lot! I’m working on some fun things, but I can’t really say too much. On a personal level, I’ve started photographing. I felt I needed a new challenge, and I simply love it!

Pre-order the print or digital versions of the spring issue of Sweet Paul Magazine (#20), or visit SweetPaulMag.com for recipes, home decor ideas and more. 

Read More