At home with our co-founder Kirsten Walker
As co-founder of Palm Beach Collection, it makes total sense that we would venture up to Kirsten Walker’s home on Sydney’s Northern Beaches to include her in our At Home series.
Welcoming us into her space, Kirsten’s home really is true to what you’d expect from the co-founder of this beaches-inspired brand. Effortless style meets pastel pinks and yellows, greenery and a neutral palette in this gorgeous interior that is home to a family of four plus (very) content Labrador, Henry.
Follow us into Kirstens' home as we chat about her business journey, how she spends her weekends with her kids and her favourite Palm Beach Collection scent.
How did Palm Beach Collection start?
My parents worked in the wax industry for years and years. They used to laugh at how much we would pay for a candle. Eventually they suggested that Mike (my brother) and I create a candle brand. We were both working in very different industries, Mike was a builder and I was a fashion buyer. We quit our jobs and created Palm Beach Collection in 2009 without much thought at all. There are so many ups and downs owning your own business but I think the secret to going the distance is passion. We are very lucky that after 11 years we still love what we do.
What are your ‘must have’ items in a home?
Obviously I’m going to say some Palm Beach Collection products! I’m so lucky to be passionate about what we produce, a candle is a permanent fixture for us. At the moment it’s our new limited edition “Sunshine” freshening up the living area. I love collecting homewares when I travel, its a lovely reminder of where you have been. Plants or flowers are a great way to make a home feel fresh.
Tell us your favourite way to spend a Saturday on the Northern Beaches…
Wake up with an early morning walk with a friend and a coffee at the beach. Spend time with the family, normally down to Palm Beach for a surf. Then some afternoon wines at Bar Elvina which is my go-to local favourite. But in reality most Saturdays involve kids sport!
You’re a Mum of 2 running a successful and busy business – how do you maintain a balance?
It’s definitely easier now both my kids are at school! I think for families with both parents working it’s an ongoing battle and you have to work on it. Dedicating certain times when you give your kids 100% of your attention works for me. When I grab the kids from school, I am theirs until dinner. Knowing your limits and when you need to take time for yourself is so important as well. If it means you get up at 5:30am to go for that walk or pilates so be it.
Where would you like to travel with the kids when the world opens to us again
I think it’s so important to expose your kids to different cultures and ways of life, because it’s so interesting and teaches them to be grateful for the life they are able to lead. Also because it’s fun to adventure! I would love to take the kids to Japan. Close enough to not be a nightmarishly long journey but still so different.
What’s your favourite scent?
This changes all the time! I am loving our newest essential oil blend “Native” which is available in April. It’s as if you’re walking through the Australian Bush. Another new favourite is our “Sunshine” candle. It's the perfect scent that takes you back to a summer holiday.
