Inspiration is defined as ‘the process of being mentally stimulated to do or feel something, especially to do something creative.’ There’s something really special about identifying what inspires you. Sometimes it’s a book or a film or even a place you’ve visited, but I’ve found more often than not, it’s a person.
Today I’m starting a new series on Wattle and Ash, which I hope will become a regular feature, The Inspiration Files. Essentially it’s all about people who are doing amazing things.
Today, I’d like to introduce you to Belinda Satterthwaite…
I first connected with Belinda through her Instagram account, and quickly realised she owned Tomolly, a well known home wears shop in the New South Wales Central West. Back in 2013, I spent 12 months living in Orange and used to frequently make the drive to Millthorpe, where Tomolly was based. I loved wandering around the historic village and popping into its multitude of independent shops and eateries. Fast forward to 2019, and Belinda and Tomolly are now based in Carcoar, another stunning Central West community. I’m a huge fan of Belinda’s pared back, natural styling in her shop, and home (an old flour mill), but what I find super inspiring about her is her passion for her little town.
It’s very easy to see through your Instagram account that you love where you live. How did you come to live in Carcoar and what is it about the town that enjoy so much.
We truly had no plans on leaving Millthorpe but we decided to look at a property we had seen on the internet. I took a drive with my husband saying we are only sticky beaks, not sure why we are really looking, as we will not buy… then low and behold, we walked into the Old Flour Mill and fell in love. It also has on the same property a sweet weatherboard cottage called Hargan’s Cottage plus Hargan’s old garage. So my husband made a offer on the day without us even discussing it. We were in love. A dream. Plus we have frontage to the Belubula River! So hence we moved here and then relocated my store.
I can remember visiting your shop in Millthorpe and it contained such a beautiful collection of things. What set you on the path to being a shop owner and how do you narrow down what you purchase to sell?
I have always had a dream to open a store so I followed that dream and I’m still on the journey after 10 years, with a online store in the making as well which will hopefully be live by March this year. I try and buy unique handmade products to support small makers and try my best to have a unique mix of home goods . I also offer a styling service after completing my course at ISCD (International School of Colour and Design) in Sydney.
What inspires you?
I just say follow your dream we only get one chance of life so make everyday count.
Thank-you Belinda!
Images republished with permission via @tomolly_carcoar.
Have a wonderful weekend. x
Wattle and Ash 