TDF Talks With Textile Designer Bonnie Ashley

Bonnie Ashley launched her business, with her now-husband, Neil Downie in 2010. What began as a humble handmade homewares business has grown exponentially over the past eight years – Bonnie and Neil now have over 60 stockists across Australia and a host of major international stockists too!

Amongst their many achievements, Bonnie and Neil has been sought out by some of the most amazing department stores in the world, including Anthropologie in the US, Liberty of London, and Le Bon Marche in Paris. Not bad for a husband-and-wife business with just six staff, who design and make everything here in Melbourne.

Today, I chat with Bonnie about staying ahead of the pack, securing those big international deals, dealing with copycats, and much more. It’s a super inspiring chat for anyone looking to grow a small creative business!

Remember, all our podcasts come with pictures! Simply download the Overcast or Pocket Casts apps to view relevant photographs and links whilst you listen.

Notes + Links

Bonnie and Neil’s latest homewares collection is launching this week! It’s a vibrant new range called Marigold – a few sneak peek photos are included above.

We’ve collaborated with Bonnie and Neil a few times over the years, most notably on two beautiful art-based homewares collections featuring local artists Elizabeth Barnett and Miranda Skoczek!

Bonnie’s latest project is one we’re convinced will be a HUGE success, she’s launching her own fashion line, called Bonne. The line includes a range of stunning silk dresses, based on exquisite floral textile designs by Bonnie. The first collection will be out very soon – we’ll keep you posted!

Of course, you can check out all of Bonnie and Neil’s latest work and you can also shop via their website and you can follow them on Instagram at @bonnieandneil.

This is our 22nd podcast episode – catch up on past episodes here!