I grew up in Aotearoa / New Zealand, and prior to Monarc’s inception, I modelled across Europe, studied at the Gemological Institute of America (Florence campus), and managed production and manufacturing for a portfolio of European-based jewellery brands. Through my time managing a group of jewellery brands, I recognised it’s a relatively old school and closed-door industry.

I want to create a brand that was transparent, accessible and one that evolves alongside the [Monarc] customer.

I began working on Monarc part time in 2017 from my London home, then from a workspace in London’s jewellery district, Hatton Garden. Today, Monarc is mostly based in Mount Maunganui, New Zealand, which is a fabulous place to run the business from. Slower coastal living means I can balance being a brand owner and a mum.

I’m most invigorated when I am close to nature. With age, I have realised the importance of having time alone to pause and reflect. I’ve also realised saying no to others is saying yes - to yourself.

I’m pragmatic when it comes to my wardrobe. My everyday uniform consists of jeans (when not pregnant), silk pants (an absolute staple during my current pregnancy), heavy cotton t-shirts and timeless shirts. I love a heavy knit or jacket thrown over everything during the cooler months. High quality vintage pieces contribute beautiful textures and layers to my wardrobe. I have three go-to bags in my life: a holdall Mansur Gavreil tote (via @RITES.co) for work meetings and days in the city; a small Nanushka crossbody bag for occasions when I need only lipstick and a phone, and the hardest working of them all; an undestroyable canvas tote for mum duties, running errands and beach life

I think personal style is something that’s innate and can't easily be replicated. I admire the style of Yasmin Sewell and Alex Carl, and how they approach fashion by staying true to themselves and their lifestyles. I appreciate the seemingly effortless and timeless looks of Jane Birkin and Lauren Hutton. 

Independent thinking.

Monarc’s key focus is bespoke design and to release concise and carefully considered collections of seasonless styles to be treasured forever. Often many months or even years in the making, I undertake extensive research to ensure Monarc is always sourcing the most sustainable materials available (not the most efficient route or the path of least resistance). Made with a careful and considered eye, Monarc uses 100% recycled and/or certified precious metals and aboveground diamonds and gemstones – eliminating mining of the earth and using what is already in production.

Since Monarc’s beginning, my focus has been to tread lightly on our planet to leave a lasting positive impact. Off the back of working for larger companies and in the manufacturing and wholesale industry, I wanted to establish a seasonless and small-scale approach for Monarc Jewellery that’s circular and puts the planet and its inhabitants first (rather than following a typical commercial / fashion calendar, which seems wasteful).

 In 2022, Monarc became B Corp certified through the UK process, and it was wonderful to see that we excelled in the area of environmental impact. Monarc has four key pillars that we refer to as the framework for all of our projects and ways of conducting business. I think of the environment as being intertwined with our Care pillar: care is defined as the provision of what is necessary for health, welfare, maintenance and protection. Monarc is committed to not only mitigating negative impact, but as a creator of products, it’s imperative that Monarc invests in environmental restoration and sustainable practices.

We are very proud of our achievements, such as becoming B Corp certified in 2022, but we also believe in the importance of continuous improvement. Monarc’s team and I are never standing still we remain inquisitive to learn and adjust our best practises according to new technologies and methods that can enable us to do better. I think the onus is on brands to do better.

 ELLA STYLING OUR FOUNDATIONS COLLECTION, COMING SOON

I have a pocketful that I apply to my everyday:

- An investment in education gives the best returns - Benjamin Franklin

- Comparison is the thief of joy - Theodore Roosevelt

- Feel it, don’t fight it. And flow

LEARN MORE ABOUT MONARC JEWELLERY HERE.