Today we’d like to introduce you to Melinda Maguire.
Hi Melinda, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
In 2007, I founded our Australian lifestyle brand Hope & May with the name originating from the middle names of her two daughters Tahlia and Kobi.
The brand’s concept and signature style was developed from my extensive background in interior and fashion design whilst residing abroad in Asia with the vision to create a collection of Resort-wear, Home & Lifestyle pieces.
My daughters and I have worked alongside each other for 15 years — collaborating across design, marketing and expansion.
While our roles feel all-encompassing and ever-changing, my present focus resides in brand direction, design and production. Kobi leads brand marketing and development alongside Tahlia, who also works closely across production and design.
With an established brand in Australia, the three of us have recently relocated to Los Angeles, California where we are expanding the brand and working on design projects and partnerships throughout the US.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Defining roles within the company with the three of us is often challenging — we all have different strengths and goals, but where and when we’re best suited for projects can be tricky in an ever-evolving space.
We’ve been impressed with Hope & May, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Hope & May is an Australia Lifestyle brand encompassing all areas from Fashion, Homewares and Furniture. We are committed to designing quality and timeless pieces throughout our apparel and home collections to withstand seasonal trends. We consciously manufacture our Hope & May exclusive products from considered and certified materials with lower environmental impacts within China, India, Vietnam and Africa. Our female founders have been fortunate enough to visit our suppliers over the years to ensure ethical working conditions and industry certification standards are being met, with the intention to build conscious and responsible workplace practices and committing to a safe and healthy environment.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.hopeandmay.com
- Instagram: @hopeandmay
Image Credits
Photographers: Jessie Prince & Brigette Clark
