“A 19th-century country home, in the small village of Chobham, is deeply rooted in the themes of family, with every corner reflecting our commitment to connection and shared moments.”
OUR STORY
Alex and Claire Vero live at The Old Vicarage and are two creative entrepreneurs whose experience spans film production, technology and brand development. Together they run The Collective.
With 20 years in the film, advertising and tech industry, Alex is perfectly placed to manage the location shoots at The Collective and will be on hand to ensure everything runs smoothly.
Alex started his film career by making a documentary at 22 years old called “running to the limits” a personal story exploring the talents of the East African marathon runners. Channel 4 went on to buy the documentary. Alex then co-founded a production company and tech platform for many years with a friend. Now Alex is focused on personal projects, property development and The Collective to spend as much time with his family whilst they are young.
After an early career in both commercial management and marketing roles for blue chip companies Claire sought a new path. In 2013 Claire founded Aurelia Probiotic Skincare, the world’s first probiotic skincare brand. “In just five years, we won more than 160 consumer and industry awards. The brand opened a counter in Liberty London and was stocked nationwide at Space NK, Aurelia was one of twelve beauty brands selected to launch beauty at NET-A-PORTER and became a bestseller. We expanded by being stocked in luxury skincare boutiques globally and gathered a loyal following of customers. Myself and my amazing team many of whom were with me at the beginning of Aurelia helped grow the brand until we were acquired in January 2019 by an internationally listed business.”
Claire now spends time with her three children, Henry, Atticus and Margot, has a huge passion for interior design and is setting up a functional and spiritual wellbeing retreat. She has previously held NED roles and is passionate about helping other women grow their brands.
The couple also champion Neurodivergence as their eldest child is homeschooled and they both have Dyslexia. “We wish to use The Collective to exploring a weekly homeschooling group called ‘Seedling’ which we hope will support other local families embracing this same path.”
THE HISTORY OF THE OLD VICARAGE
Alex has lived in the house since birth and therefore has a deep rooted connection. The house has an extraordinary energy that makes it a very special place to practice restorative yoga and seek stillness.
Historically the house has been a place where people have gathered, shared ideas and connected. We hope that The Collective continues this for our generation.
RENOVATED IN 2019
Alex and Claire partnered with the brilliant team at Smallwoods Architects, renowned interior designers Salvesen Graham and the fabulous garden designers at Mazzullo + Russell.
Together, we transformed the property and grounds into a haven that suits a busy family life whilst retaining the charm of a 200-year-old house.
