Elle & Riley was founded in 2016 by Mother and Daughter duo Elle Pugh and Yolanda Ellis. Passionate about Cashmere, the pair have develop a brand that crafts enduring timeless luxury pieces, with contemporary designs and impeccable craftsmanship. We caught up with Elle, a dog lover and mumma to George the mini schnauzer on how design influences her life.
1) At The Good Pet Home we believe design and quality shouldn’t be compromised when it comes to your pet and your home. Can you tell us how design influences your daily life from the workplace to home?
Design is incredibly important to me especially when it comes to simplicity and calm spaces. Our stores are all designed by our interior designer Katie Lockhart and they are just the most welcoming, soothing environments. It's so important when dealing with a soft, comforting product like cashmere, and for me when I am visiting up to 3 stores in a single day, to have this soothing aesthetic to work in. I bring that into my home by having very minimal clutter. I don't have a lot of objects around my house, I like clean lines and surfaces, complemented by a touch of colour in the form of flowers, or a rug. Simple additions that don't overwhelm me.
2) What’s unique about Cashmere, and why should it be one luxury item we should own?
Cashmere is sourced from goats that live in extreme climates so their wool is much lighter and more insulating than other wools. It's moisture wicking so it helps release sweat vapour keeping you warm in winter and cool in summer. Honestly if you have ever owned cashmere you will know it feels like being enveloped in a warm hug. It is an investment and needs to be cared for, but it's something, if cared for you will own forever.
3) What do you love about working for your own brand Elle & Riley?
Looking back at the last 7 years and seeing how far we come is incredibly satisfying, and we have so much more to do! I love that feeling of achievement and success, knowing what we built didn't exist until we put in the hard work. Day to day I love the flexibility of my work life, and I love the interaction I have with my team, customers and external stakeholders who all contribute to our amazing brand.
4) Can you tell us about your dogs? What breed are they? What do you love about them?
My Mum and I got two brothers from the same litter, George and Duke. They are miniature schnauzers. Our last family dog Clooney was also a miniature schnauzer and we just adored him, so we wanted to carry on with the same breed. George and Duke spend so much time together and we often leave one dog with the other so they always have company. They are hilarious together, people often ask if they have the same personality because they are brothers, but it's just like humans and couldn't be further from the truth. George is a little trouble maker and Duke is a loyal companion who will side with whoever is showing him the most attention!
5) What’s important to you when looking for accessories for your dogs?
The same as when I look for items for myself, quality and beauty! We keep it simple with our pet accessories as I don't like to over indulge them!
6) What products did you choose from The Good Pet Home and why?
I chose the St Argo vegan leather collars, we were well overdue a new collar. I like simple collars that look chic and sophisticated so these fit the bill perfectly, they look so smart.
Then I chose the smith&burton Shampoo and Conditioner and the Nourishing Cologne. We bath our dogs every couple of weeks, I can't stand smelly animals, so these were perfect. The spray is amazing for in between showers and reminds me of our Elle & Riley Deodorising Spray - we use it between wears to keep your cashmere fresh and clean!
7) What do you like about them now that you have used them?
The smell! Good enough for a human and so nourishing and fresh. The pups came out incredibly soft after a shampoo and condition, even more delicious for cuddles!
8) When you’re not working, what do you like to do to relax?
I'm usually just at home with my husband and George. We take him for long walks, watch movies and cook, I'm a real homebody so I'm happy just spending time at home with my family.
BE IN TO WIN!
The Good Pet Home has teamed up with Elle & Riley to help celebrate our 4th birthday with a fabulous giveaway! Be in to win a $300 gift voucher from Elle & Riley and a $300 voucher from The Good Pet Home. Total prize value $600!
For your chance to win, sign up to The Good Pet Home email newsletter and ensure you're following the @thegoodpethome and @elleandrileycashmere on instagram and tag your bestie (or your furry friend).
*Entries close 11.59pm NZT Wednesday 30th August 2023. Entrants must be over the age of 16 years. Competition open to New Zealand and Australian residents.
The winner will be drawn on Thursday 31st August 2023 and announced on The Good Pet Home Instagram and Facebook page. Good luck!
For full terms and conditions you can read them here.
