Can you tell us a little about yourself?
I’m a fashion designer based in Auckland NZ. I have retail stores in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch and have our clothing stocked in a number of boutiques around the country. I live in Mt Albert, Auckland with my husband and two precious daughters 7 and 5.
How long has your fashion brand been running for?
20 years this year! It’s pretty much the only job I have ever had apart from a couple of part time jobs when I was a student. I love it – don’t get me wrong it has been a journey with so many highs but also some challenging times too. I love that something that I loved doing as a young girl, sewing, has become what it is today. And I love that I get to work with so many talented and inspiring people that allow JH to be what it is.
We also love the premise of Mindful Fashion, and as a board member yourself, could you tell us a bit about the venture?
MFNZ is a not-for-profit organisation established in 2019 to strengthen the NZ fashion and textile industry. At the heart of what we do is a commitment to a sustainable and inclusive future; one where business, nature and people all thrive. We support long term sustainable success for members and the wider industry through advocacy, sustainable business resources and facilitating collaborative solutions. It is an absolute privilege to be the Chair of the organisation and help drive positive change in this industry.
Do you have one tidbit of advice for longevity in business you could share?
Surround yourself with great people!
What’s your go to reading attire?
Anything from our JH Lounge collection. It is the perfect attire for snuggling up in a corner with a good book and a glass of wine.
What book do you always recommend to others?
At the moment the Covenant of Water. I have always loved The House of Spirits too. There are so many good books that need to be read. Andre Aggasi’s Open is such a great read. The Paper Palace. I read Lola in the Mirror earlier this year and loved it. The list could go on!
What are you watching on TV right now?
I’m not watching anything at the moment… or I should say I’m not loving watching anything at the moment… would love any suggestions!
Podcast episode you have recently loved..
I’ve just started listening to The Witch Trials of J K Rowling and am finding it fascinating.
Tell us what reading means to you…
Reading is pure escapism for me. I love it when you find a book that resonates so much that it distracts you from everything else that is happening. And when you come to the end you mourn that the characters will no longer be in your life. It’s also about finding space to rest your mind from all of the things that you have to deal with on a daily basis.
What have been your favourite recent reads?
Covenant of Water, loved! Just such a great saga. Highly recommend.
Tom Lake, enjoyed. Super easy read.
Strange Sally Diamond - a good read – quick weekend book.
Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow. Loved, and didn’t expect too. Highly recommend
You Be Mother, Loved. Highly recommend.
Cleopatra and Frankenstein, loved! Highly recommend
Lessons in Chemistry, really enjoyed, a great absorbing read, I didn’t love the tv series of this one though.
Lola in the Mirror – loved this so much. And needs to be read.
Romantic Comedy – a great holiday read
Good Material – same with this one, super easy and engrossing.