LIFE.STYLE.ETC

We talk to Tammy Gow of online homeware store Hunter & Co

many spend maternity leave dreaming of starting a business, but Tammy Gow was determined to make it a reality. Although she had worked in finance for years, she was desperate to scratch her creative itch. So within months of having her son Hunter, she conceived the idea of Hunter & Co, an online homeware store that launched in February 2018. Its relaxed, coastal style has attracted a loyal fan base keen to bring a touch of Hamptons living to their homes. Tammy lives in Greenwich with husband John, sons Hunter, three, and Jaxon, 11 months, alongside two kittens, Murphy and Pippa.

Sum up your business in five words…

Fresh, relaxed, coastal modern homeware. What was the light-bulb moment that led to you launching your business?

I had a full-time finance job in the City but I’ve always wanted to start my ow n business. W hen I was on maternit y leave with my first son in early 2017, I saw what it means to create a positive work/family/life balance. I’ve always admired the gorgeous homeware brands from America and Australia, especially where they evoke stylish coastal living. I felt like we didn’t have the same vibe in the UK so I wanted to curate and design a homeware collection that did that. I ended up launching the brand when I had been back at work four months.

What’s the greatest sacrifice you’ve made for work?

Time with my husband and myself! As I am still working in my finance job, I can only dedicate time to Hunter & Co in the evenings and weekends. But I feel blessed to have the opportunity to work on something I’m passionate about.

The biggest risk you’ve taken in business? W hen I opened my pop-up store

on King’s Road on our first birthday, not knowing whether anyone knew us let alone would come in and shop with us. It has been by far one of the best experiences so I’m really glad I took that risk.

Your proudest achievement so far? Simply that I put myself out of my comfort zone to create Hunter & Co.

And your biggest extravagance?

Holidays – I like to go abroad every few months so I sadly had to cancel three trips this year due to the pandemic. gorgeous homeware, Cult Beauty and I always rack up the biggest bill in Zara for myself and my kids!

What’s the last thing you bought for your home?

Two interior design coffee table books – Live Beautiful by Athena Calderone and Restoration House by Kennesha Buycks. Share your best business tip… Don’t be afraid to ask for help from anyone, especially fellow small-business owners even when they are your competitors.

Although being a mother to a baby is definitely a full-time job, maternity leave gave me a now-or-never opportunity to go for it