LeeAnn Yare | Collected
ARTICLE Nicole James PHOTOGRAPHY Larnie Nicholson
LeeAnn Yare is an inspiration - mastering the art of managing various roles, as a stylist, writer, pilot, business owner, mum and even a former TV presenter. LeeAnn shares with us her practical ways for managing it all.
How did you get into the home industry?
I entered a Resene colour competition and won! That led to me writing and styling for magazine and corporate clients, as well as styling advertising campaigns and writing for two interior and style books.
What three things do you find most important to help with your job?
The internet, my phone, an awesome family that enjoys what I enjoy doing, and great staff.
With a knack for incredible style - what's your main inspiration for the office space you have created for yourself?
It's my space, so I didn't have to please anyone else, which was fun!
How would you describe the mood and feel of the space?
It's the one place I admit that I have really gone crazy with an explosion of colour. It's like working inside a giant mood board, which is constantly changing and evolving and is always inspirational.
What helps you focus when working from home?
Having a deadline! I am not too much of a planner, so my best work gets done most times when I am up against a deadline.
How do you find balance with being a stylist, writer, pilot, business owner, and mum?
It's never as bad as it looks - my husband and I both fly and we manage to care for our kids with very little childcare help. Most recently I am spending more time running social media for our local school and rugby club, or helping with events and fundraisers. It's been my year to give back and continue to help make our awesome community even more awesome.
Do you have a particular approach to organising all your ideas?
Not really. I am one of those people that keeps a lot of stuff in my head! I do take a lot of photos on my phone, when I am travelling it's such a great way of storing interesting things I see, and if I feel like sharing them I'll do so using Instagram.
You now have an online homeware store, Collected. Would you say that your selection reflects your own personal style?
Mostly, it's certainly a mix don't match kinda store. Sadly, I could never take everything home, but occasionally some of my most favourite things do find their way there. One thing I do believe in is that if I wouldn't buy something myself then it wouldn't appear in my store, regardless of whether it's $2 or $2,000.
What would be your favourite part about your space?
Some of my all time favourite wallpapers have been carefully patch worked together on the walls, using off-cuts and samples, and are now adorned with memorabilia that I love.
Do you spend a lot of time out of the office?
Yes! I actually hardly spend any time in the office. With mobile devices these days it's pretty easy to reply to emails, check on customer orders, and place stock orders with suppliers anytime and anywhere from my phone.
What tips would you give to someone creating their own home office?
For some it's a place to study, write letters, pay bills, or surf the net; for others it's a place to create, design or craft. Your home office should be a place that inspires creativity. Despite its practical use, it is part of your home, so treat it that way.
The basics. You'll need a worktop, a comfy chair, good lighting, and plenty of storage. Choose these pieces to suit the style of your home and think outside of the square.
Remember to keep your space tidy, mess is the enemy of productivity and if you can't lay your hands on what you need when you need it you will become annoyed. And if the space is part of another room, keeping it tidy and nicely styles will be aesthetically pleasing.
Check out the online store Collected.
All information is believed to be true at time of publishing and is subject to change.
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