MUSE BLOG

Hi everyone, Olivia here to introduce this week’s My MUSE: the radiant, effervescent, and endlessly warm Sal Lowry.

If you’ve spent any time in Havelock North, chances are you’ve crossed paths with Sal — and left feeling brighter for it. Whether she’s hosting a fabulous gathering, teeing off on the golf course, or greeting you with her unmistakable warmth at our Havelock North store, Sal brings a rare kind of presence: vibrant, generous, and full of heart. Whether she’s helping a customer find the piece that lifts their confidence or slipping on something fabulous herself before the school run, fashion for Sal is never about perfection; it’s about feeling like the truest version of yourself.

I sat down with Sal to talk fashion, family, finding joy in the chaos, and the magic of a really good platter…

Hi everyone, Olivia here to introduce this week's My Muse: the unstoppable, charismatic, and gloriously vivacious Jill Brinsdon.

Jill has always been a storyteller, whether she’s shaping the voice of a bold brand or helping someone step into their next chapter. It’s this instinct for clarity and connection that led her to co-found Tricky, New Zealand’s first brand performance agency of its kind. She’s fearless, disarming, and deeply creative, a formidable businesswoman with a heart for people and a wardrobe that could stop traffic.

I sat down with Jill to talk power, purpose, storytelling and the boots currently topping her wish list…

Hello everyone, Michele here to introduce you to this week's My MUSE: the warm, kind-hearted, and truly radiant Emma Wylie.

Emma grew up as one of four girls in a home where health and wellbeing were deeply valued. Her mum, a passionate cook who also worked in the health space, took great care in teaching her daughters not just how to prepare food, but how to truly understand and respect their bodies. Now a Registered Nutritionist with over a decade of experience, Emma recently launched her own business, Elo Wellbeing — a holistic consulting service (online and in-person) grounded in her mission to help women feel informed, empowered, and at home in their bodies.

I sat down with Emma to chat all things nutrition, wellbeing, and how fashion sparks her joy.

Hannah’s career journey has been unique and showcases her ability to pivot and adapt. She began in tax accounting, earning her chartered accountancy at PwC, before discovering her passion for digital marketing. She transitioned into this field, starting her own consultancy, while also building a personal Instagram following of over 100k. 

These days, Hannah’s career has evolved once again. She now balances her role as an independent director for Me Today, a New Zealand skincare and supplement brand, with her most important job—being a mother to two young girls. Her ability to manage both family and career speaks to her hardworking nature and deep dedication to her loved ones.

We were lucky enough to meet Rosie when we opened our Arrowtown store, which neighbours her gallery, Astor Bristed. She was even generous enough to co-host our store opening, with guests arriving at her beautiful gallery down the leafy lane that runs alongside MUSE Arrowtown.

What began as a small gallery in a tucked-away room has blossomed into a vibrant cultural space, drawing both local and international artists and inspiring a community of art lovers and collectors. Rosie’s dedication to supporting and showcasing the talents of others is nothing short of inspiring—her gallery reflects her keen eye for detail, her deep love of art, and her natural ability to connect with people.

After a successful career in finance, Nikki made the bold decision to change course and join her partner, Paul Izzard, at Izzard Design, a leading commercial interior design agency. With a portfolio that includes some of New Zealand's most impressive hospitality and commercial fit-outs, Izzard Design is a true powerhouse in the industry.

Nikki’s role at the agency is the perfect blend of numbers and creativity. From overseeing the business’s finances to curating beautiful furniture and design pieces, she’s clearly a force behind the scenes. Together with Paul, they make an incredible team and have managed to strike the elusive work-life balance—a feat that’s all the more challenging when working with your significant other!

After meeting her partner, Alex Bunnett, Rachel co-founded the incredible jewellery brand Naveya & Sloane in 2010. Since then, the business has blossomed into a hugely successful jewellery house, renowned for its exceptional craftsmanship and artistry. Their design philosophy is a blend of old and new, with "a pinch of playfulness." A romantic at heart, Rachel combines her laser-sharp focus and work ethic with boundless creativity to craft pieces destined to be cherished for generations. More than just a business model, Rachel deeply believes in her work and remains true to her vision.

Janet is a leading figure in neuropsychology, renowned for her dedication to helping patients manage and overcome cognitive impairments. Her commitment to her field is matched only by her passion for making a positive impact in others’ lives. When she’s not busy making strides in her professional life, Janet, a former competitive swimmer turned fitness enthusiast, focuses on maintaining a healthy lifestyle. She enjoys hitting the gym and cherishes time spent with her family and gorgeous dog, Teddy, who is a beloved presence at our MUSE Ponsonby store.

If you haven’t been to Candela yet (our favourite Spanish restaurant, nestled on Auckland’s vibrant K’ Road) then trust me – it’s an absolute must. Founded, owned and operated by Leola and her fiancé Matt, Candela is a perfect combination of flavour and warmth, creativity and style. Similar, in fact, to our gorgeous muse herself!

Driven and passionate, Leola is a queen in the Auckland hospitality scene. Using her down to earth nature and sharp laser focus, her years of experience and dedication to her customers, Leola has worked tirelessly to create and elevate Candela, providing an atmosphere and experience that truly is second to none. Confident and classic with a touch of contemporary, Leola – and everything she touches – is pure class. We are proud to have her as a part of our MUSE community, and can’t wait to continue dining with her in exquisitely cosy style.