Ilka Boutique: Bringing the Wild Inside

October 6, 2025

It’s been a little quiet over here on the blog recently — and not without reason. A bout of the flu knocked me out for a couple of weeks (not ideal timing!), but the real reason for my silence has been something far more exciting… the launch of my brand new shop: Ilka Boutique!

This project has been simmering away in my heart for a long time. After years of living and working abroad, opening an art gallery in the UK, exhibiting my paintings and illustrations, and gathering inspiration from landscapes far and wide, I’ve finally planted new roots in the beautiful Tasman region of New Zealand. And now, I'm nestled in the cutest little blue cabin at Mapua Wharf, ready to introduce Ilka to a whole new audience.

A Coastal Creative Hub
If you’ve ever visited Mapua Wharf, you’ll know it’s something special. It’s a vibrant, ever-evolving hub of coastal creativity — a place where cafés, restaurants, galleries, boutique shops, and makers come together in a lively mix of colour, flavour, and community.

In summer, it truly comes alive. Picture this: kids jumping off the wharf into sparkling blue water, paddleboards gliding past, live music drifting on the sea breeze, people sharing fish and chips on the waterfront, or hopping on the ferry across to Rabbit Island. And all the while, boutique shops like mine welcoming curious wanderers, art lovers, and gift-hunters through our doors.

This is the place I’ve chosen to launch Ilka. And honestly, I couldn’t imagine a better fit.

A Soft Launch and a Full Heart

Last weekend, I held a soft launch for a few close friends and some of the wonderful people who supported my PledgeMe campaign (see a reel I shared on Instagram here). Their belief in my vision — and their generous contributions — helped me bring Ilka to life.

From shelves and signage to packaging and prints, every little bit helped lay the foundation of this shop. If you're reading this and you were one of those backers: thank you. From the bottom of my heart.

It was such a joy to open the doors, pour a glass of bubbles, and share a few sneak peeks of what’s to come. It’s still early days, and the space is very much a work in progress — but it's full of love, ideas, and intention.

What You'll Discover at Ilka Boutique

Ilka Boutique is about bringing the wild inside. It’s a reflection of everything I love — nature, travel, colour, storytelling, and a touch of whimsy. I’ve created a collection of homewares and artwork that celebrate the wild beauty of the world, with a focus on sustainable materials and small-batch design.

In the shop, you’ll find:

Organic cotton kitchenware – tea towels, oven gloves and aprons that are as beautiful as they are practical.

Cosy cushions – soft textures and bold illustrations to brighten your home.

Illustrated stationery – lined notebooks and illustrated greeting cards that tell a story.

Vibrant wrapping paper and gifts – perfect for thoughtful giving.

Art prints and original paintings – inspired by wild creatures, travel, and the great outdoors.

Every item is designed by me, with a whole lot of heart and a commitment to quality, creativity, and sustainability.

New Land, New Market, New Adventure

Launching in New Zealand is a big step for me. It’s a whole new market, and I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t a little nervous about how my work will be received. But I truly believe that Mapua Wharf is the right place to start. It attracts people who appreciate nature, love to shop local, and want to support independent makers.

There’s a real sense of community here — both among the locals and the seasonal visitors — and I’m excited to be a part of it. I’ll be documenting this new adventure on the blog and through my social channels, sharing the behind-the-scenes moments, creative experiments, and small wins as Ilka grows.

Come Visit!

If you’re local (or passing through Tasman), I’d love for you to pop in and say hi! The shop will be open:

Mondays: 11am–4pm
Thursdays: 11am–4pm
Fridays: 11am–4pm
Saturdays: 11am–2pm

Come browse, chat, or just soak up the vibes at the wharf. Whether you’re after a thoughtful gift, a piece of art for your home, or simply a bit of inspiration, I hope Ilka will be a place where you feel welcome and inspired.

Here’s to new beginnings — and to creating something beautiful, wild, and full of heart.