In person with Hawke's Bay blogger and Milo and Mitzy designer
Amy Tennent
“I started my blog in 2011 when I was studying from home online. Procrasti nati on is my middle name and I much preferred staring at images of interiors than a 2000-word essay. Initi ally, it was a way to save all of the gorgeous images that I came across. I became a designer by default really. I have always been creati ve and wanted to extend my creati vity in some way. I started Milo and Mitzy back in 2011, when I saw a gap in the market for 100% New Zealand wool chunky knit throws. My husband, being a sheep and beef farmer, was completely supporti ve of the idea and had the knowledge on the wool side of things, while my mum is the clever lady who stands there with the huge needles knitting for hours at a time. I am a mum to our two- year-old girl Frankie and our one-year-old boy Patch, and I’m also a teacher.”
Tell us about the Hawke’s Bay and how it inspires you:
Hawke’s Bay is home – always has been, always will be. It is such an incredible place. My husband and I oft en say how lucky we are: beautiful countryside, amazing food and wine culture, fantastic beaches and some of our country’s most inspiring creative talent.
Do you use your home as a testing ground for your ideas?
Milo and Mitzy chunky knit throws.
Absolutely. I am one of those restless types who gets bored easily. I am always changing things around in our home. I am lucky that my blog has also led me to so many opportunities. One of those being the fact that I get sent incredible products to try out in my own home.
Describe your interior style at home:
Sometimes I find myself being a bit of a sheep, following the trends. It’s a habit that I am trying to break. In terms of describing my style, I like to mix it up – old with new, industrial with boho, that kind of thing. For example I’m in the process of gathering a collection of gorgeous kilim cushions to throw on my sofa with a black and white rug below and a cool tan leather arm chair. That’s my dream look.
Were you creative as a child?
Was I creative as a child! I was that kid who changed their outfit six times a day and made friendship bracelets all night long.
What’s the most satisfying design project you’ve worked on?
The success of my chunky knit throws has been pretty mind blowing, from something that was just meant to be a quick side project. Last year I collaborated with Forestry Home (based in the Netherlands and run by New Zealander Virginia Star Busmann) and had the opportunity to design a gorgeous black and white throw which was fun. The work I am most proud of is the blog that I have created. I get people emailing me out of the blue telling me that I inspire them. It is very humbling to read that sort of thing.
