Since Rose & Grey launched in 2008, we've packed thousands of orders, travelled the world in search of beautiful finds, weathered trends, celebrated milestones, and had the privilege of helping customers create homes they love.
As we approach our 18th birthday, we thought it would be the perfect time to sit down with founder Lyndsey and look back on where it all began.
So, Lyndsey, how did this all start?
We’d just relocated from London where we’d both worked in media. At the time there were hardly any media jobs in Manchester so I had an opportunity straight after my second son Ollie was born to take a risk and try something new…I would say he was a very good baby and slept well so I got quite a lot done!
Lyndsey, Guy and her two boys - the start of Rose & Grey!
And did you have a shop straight away?
Rose & Grey started in my basement, with my Mum and Dad's garage acting as the warehouse. I’d drive to and from the garage, package all of the items up myself and then take them all to the post office. Thankfully it wasn’t long until we found a small warehouse and then found the space in Altrincham for our showroom and warehouse in 2016.
Lyndsey and Guy outside their brand new warehouse - farewell Mum & Dad’s garage!
How did you pluck up the courage to create a whole new brand?
It didn’t really feel that risky at the time but looking back I suppose it was a big leap of faith. There were only a handful of independent homeware brands around at the time, and hardly anyone was selling furniture online. I spotted a gap and jumped in.
The brand new shop back in 2016
What kind of things did you sell back then?
Vintage leather sofas were a big deal 18 years ago along with fish eye mirrors. There was a lot of industrial looking pieces. We were also one of the first retailers to sell Scandi brands like Ferm living - back then those brands didn’t have many retailers in the UK - now of course they are everywhere! We were basically selling homeware items that were difficult to find online elsewhere, which is why Rose & Grey flourished from the off.
The brand new shop back in 2016 - Industrial, vintage and cacti’s were big!
Are there any key pieces you stocked that you remember from the past 18 years?
I can literally pinpoint a year by the trend that was popular back then. From pineapples and owls to bum vases and Tolix chairs, not forgetting the Industrial era and Hygge! Before covid it felt like each year had a really distinguishable trend, now I am starting to see less ‘hero’ looks and a more authentic way of decorating your home. People seem to be braver in knowing their own style, they are picking pieces that make them feel happy and are less likely to be swayed by the crowd which I really love.
The pineapple trend
Any highlights from over the years?
We've had so many highlights over the years. From fabulous events and memorable parties to unexpected features in some wonderful magazines and newspapers, there have been plenty of pinch-me moments along the way.
One of the most memorable was discovering a full-page article about Rose & Grey in an in-flight magazine. Nobody had told us it was coming, so finding it was a complete surprise! The best part was hearing from customers who had read it while travelling and then sought us out when they got home. Moments like that have always felt incredibly special.
Loads of lovely press
And where has Rose & Grey taken you?
We’ve travelled all around the world sourcing for Rose & Grey. From Paris and Milan to China and India, we’ve been so lucky. When we first started out, our first trip to India was incredibly special. We were treated like family by our new agent - cooked for, cared for - nothing was too much.
Lyndsey with Madame Stoltz on a visit to their base in Bornholm Sweden
What are you looking to achieve over the next 18 years?
Now the boys are off to Uni I am certainly looking for a happier work life balance.
We moved out of our large Altrincham warehouse and showroom earlier this year and into a slightly smaller warehouse without a showroom, so we are now looking for a new, unique showroom space to call home. I’m keen to offer a more experiential approach to shopping such as somewhere to eat, chat and drink, somewhere to listen and read and of course, somewhere to shop really unique interior finds and sit on our fabulous sofas.
Sofas - the best made and squishiest around
What nugget of wisdom would you pass on to anyone starting their own brand adventure?
I think it helps to really love what you do - I love connecting with my team, customers and suppliers and that’s got to show hasn’t it?
Thank you so much for taking us with you down Memory Lane, Lyndsey. We can’t wait to see what the next 18 years look like!
