MUSE BLOG

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My MUSE | Scarlett Wood

Hi everyone, Olivia here to introduce this week’s My MUSE: the grounded, polished, and remarkably driven Scarlett Wood

Scarlett has carved out a remarkable career in luxury real estate, where her signature blend of integrity, insight, and unwavering professionalism has earned her deep trust among clients in both Auckland and the Southern Lakes. Alongside her thriving property business, Scarlett also helms The Luxury Network NZ, bringing together the country’s leading high-end brands through curated events and partnerships. She’s stylish, smart, and sharp—but always grounded in a sense of who she is and what she stands for.

I sat down with Scarlett to talk style, substance, and the joy of a good croissant (preferably by the lake in Queenstown)...

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my muse

My MUSE | Scarlett Wood

Hi everyone, Olivia here to introduce this week’s My MUSE: the grounded, polished, and remarkably driven Scarlett Wood

Scarlett has carved out a remarkable career in luxury real estate, where her signature blend of integrity, insight, and unwavering professionalism has earned her deep trust among clients in both Auckland and the Southern Lakes. Alongside her thriving property business, Scarlett also helms The Luxury Network NZ, bringing together the country’s leading high-end brands through curated events and partnerships. She’s stylish, smart, and sharp—but always grounded in a sense of who she is and what she stands for.

I sat down with Scarlett to talk style, substance, and the joy of a good croissant (preferably by the lake in Queenstown)...

my muse

My MUSE | Sal Lowry

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…

my muse

My MUSE | Jill Brinsdon

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…

my muse

My MUSE | Emma Wylie

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.

 

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My MUSE | Hannah Barrett

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.

 

my muse

My MUSE | Rosie Bristed

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.

my muse

My MUSE | Nikki Pangari

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!

 

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My MUSE | Anna Thomson
Originally from Dunedin, Anna is a super mum of four boys, and anyone who’s had the pleasure of meeting her can attest to the fact that she’s nothing short of a force of nature. Despite the daily chaos of raising young children, Anna manages to juggle it all with a warm, calm presence that makes it all seem effortless.

While being a stay-at-home mum is Anna’s primary role, it’s clear that she’s a woman who loves life and keeps it simple, especially when it comes to her wardrobe. With a natural love for fashion, she knows how to mix comfort and style, always looking chic yet effortless. As much as she enjoys clothes and fashion, she is also practical and has mastered the art of pared-back dressing, which is just perfect for her busy life at home.

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My MUSE | Lauren Boden
After spending a decade immersed in the luxury fashion and watch industries across London, Paris, and New York, Lauren decided to return home to New Zealand to raise her two children. It was during this transition that she realised there was a gap in the market for luxury jewellery from international brands. And so, Lulu’s Collective was born—a curated online store that brings together the best of the best from around the globe.

With an eye for exceptional craftsmanship and pieces that carry distinct character, Lauren has carefully curated collections that speak to a discerning buyer. Each piece must tick all the right boxes: refined yet playful, sophisticated with a touch of whimsy, and always, always wearable.

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My MUSE | Rachel Sloane

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.

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My MUSE | Janet Milne

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.

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My MUSE | Leola King

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.

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My MUSE | Dr. Amelia Ryan
As a highly sought after Women’s Health specialist, a co-owner of a private gynaecology practice and a loving mum-of-three, Amelia brings a whole new meaning to the word busy. Following years of study, training and delivering babies, Amelia now channels her skills towards alleviating the pain and suffering caused by endometriosis – a condition that affects so many. When she’s not out there changing women’s lives, Amelia adores spending quality time with her husband and their three beautiful children.