Julia and Dan Smith – Founders of London Cashmere Company 

This month we are putting the spotlight on some of our suppliers, sharing stories of how their business came about and how they have coped during the pandemic. First up, it’s Julia Smith from London Cashmere Co. who supply us with the softest, gorgeous cashmere eye masks and fingerless gloves.

Tell us a bit about yourself   

Dan is from New Zealand, I am from Newcastle – we met there 5 years ago when Dan was there playing Rugby. Dan had worked for another cashmere brand for years before playing Rugby full time, and he was always keen to start a brand that gave consumers access to great quality Mongolian cashmere at a reasonable price point. I had worked in Property since studying Architecture at university and so when we saw the trend of Pop-Up shops really taking off in London it felt like the perfect opportunity to test our brand face to face with our audience. That was 3 years ago!

How has the pandemic impacted your business

Thankfully the Summer period is usually quieter for us, so in that respect we were quite fortunate. The real impact for us is the unknown of the coming Autumn/Winter and how we plan for that, as this is the time that our sales usually really ramp up. We also traditionally do quite a lot of Pop-Up stores at this time of year, so ensuring these are operated in line with all of the Government guidelines is our main focus at the moment.

A lot of our packages are sent for people going through something, whether that’s illness or a break up or a tough time at work. What’s your go-to product or thing to do when you’re feeling the need for TLC? 

Mine is definitely a candle and a few hours watching a TV series that lets me switch off, currently I am watching This is Us and I’m loving it!

A really thoughtful thing someone has done for you? 

When my housemate Rachel moved out of our house, she left photos of us all around the house for me to find and remind me of all the nice times we have had together, it was amazing!

Your toughest challenge?

Without a doubt running a small business with big ambitions, it presents challenges daily but I also learn constantly.

What makes you laugh?

My family mercilessly takes the pi** out of each other, I never have more laughs than sitting around a dinner table when we are all together.

Words to live by? 

Success comes when you capitalise on opportunity

Complete this sentence: I wish…

I really try not to always long for more because it stops me enjoying now. However Covid has highlighted how much I long to travel more, so I’ll definitely make that more of a priority once it’s feasible.

And finally, given the madness of the last few months, how are you? 

We are good! It feels good to be getting busier again now our main selling season has started.

Find out more about London Cashmere Co. here.

Check out our instagram for this weeks giveaway which includes some incredible products from London Cashmere Co.