A NOTE FROM VICKI: THE LAST FEW WEEKS
Posted:
What a month! From judging the Hokonui Fashion Awards, preparing for the first drop of our new collection, and opening our new Dunedin store, it's fair to say the taylor team has been busy behind the scenes.
To wrap up all that has been going on, Vicki has penned a little note on her time down in Southland and Otago.
First stop: the Hokonui Fashion Awards.
"It was so exciting to be approached by the Hokonui Fashion Awards to join them as a judge this year.
I had to reluctantly admit I had never explored Gore before, so this seemed like a fabulous opportunity to spend some time in our magic south Island.
Many Thanks to MJ at Yours Faithfully in Invercargill, who had introduced me!
After a fleeting a few days in Dunedin with our Builder and with either a paintbrush or scrubbing brush in hand, meeting Steve Dunstan from Huffer to drive down to Gore was a welcome relief.
The drive from Dunedin to Gore was a great time to catch up on our industry ups and down, the sun set and amongst the dark southern sky we watched the most amazing thunderstorm and lightening display in the distance – secretly hoping it would stay away. It was a fabulous way to set the scene.
A quick stop at the RSA in Gore for a bite to eat when we arrived – Steve kindly introduced to me to the True Southland Cheese Rolls.
The next three days are what I can only describe as completely inspiring. Steve, Liam (Deadly Ponies) and I judged amazing designs through a round of blind judging, meaning no names were attached.
I was totally blown away by the level of talent shown by the students, they tackled some big design problems and some pieces were incredibly well constructed.
Our judging was interrupted with early morning radio show attendances and throughout our week we discovered our quest to try all the different recipes that create the Classic Cheese roll. …………………..(I think Steve counted eight one day!). I continued to be amazed by the incredible talent that our little country produces, and my weekend in Gore was no different.
Strictly fashion was the first night, and the first time us as judges get to see the garments on the catwalk and learn who designed each piece.
A real highlight for me was visiting the Eastern Southland Gallery. It was the most amazing surprise to see 35 Ralph Hotere original artworks, a Len Lye and much more in their permanent collection. I couldn't believe what I'd stumbled across! Definitely add this to your Southland itinerary, and lunch at Miss Cocoa's is a must as well!
It was then the second night of the event which was the Designer Showcase, with taylor down the catwalk.
I have to make a little note of all the incredible people that come together to make the Hokonoi Fashion Awards happen. Each and every one of them volunteer their time. It was so inspiring to see the passion that goes into the event each year."
Next stop: The Shelter by taylor Dunedin Opening.
"After wrapping up the Gala Awards on Saturday night, it was an early morning drive back to Dunedin to begin the set up for our new store opening. Swinging past the airport, we picked up our taylor team, who had flown in quite the haul (a few last-minute deliveries, a new lamp for the store and extra stock that didn't quite make it on the courier in time!). Then it was straight to work.
While you might never have known it, 48 hours before the store's official opening, we were more construction site than retail store. Sunday was spent cleaning up all the dust, unpacking all the stock sent in from around the country, last-minute paint touch-ups, and final visits from our electrician. By 8 pm tools down, we had the bones of the store set up.
Monday - we were heading into a 5:30 pm opening night event, so it was another bright and early morning in Dunedin, but not without a stop at our new local - The Ebb Cafe for breakfast. The painter was back in, windows were cleaned, and I had to make a mad dash to Lighting Direct for some extra overhead lights! Janette, who you will know from our Christchurch store, was on the steam mop as we all rushed to get changed. A huge thank you to all of our amazing Dunedin friends, family and clients who shared a glass of bubbles with us on opening night."
We are so excited to share with you our new Dunedin store The Shelter by taylor. Stay tuned for more pictures from our opening night, and make sure to pop in and say hello to the familiar Sarah.
41 Filluel Street, Central Dunedin.