The Beach People | From Brisbane to the Beach
The Beach People are makers of luxe sea side essentials, designed to bring bliss to your sea adventures. Based in the Northern Rivers of NSW, the company was founded in the summer of 2013 by Victoria Beattie and her sister Emma. My Place Our Place caught up with Victoria to learn more about The Beach People, and how the company has grown to a community of like minded sea lovers around the globe.
What’s it like starting a business with your sister?
It’s been the most wonderful journey. Em and I were best friends before we started the business and were hesitant to go into business at the risk of damaging that relationship. However from the very beginning it was evident that we worked really well together. Emma is incredibly creative and I am more methodical, it’s been a great combo. I think we have both also loved celebrating the highs and getting through the lows together.
You grew up in Brisbane but moved to Kingscliff a few years ago. Was the sea change the inspiration behind The Beach People?
Absolutely. We grew up on Mowbray Terrace in East Brisbane. I remember when South Bank was built and when the city cats started, ha! Emma was actually born on the Gold Coast and the majority of our family live around the coast. I think it was inevitable that we would move back to the coast at some time. We thought that with the sea change we wouldn’t have the opportunity in business that being in a big city would bring but it hasn’t been the case. We have been able to build this incredible team and business living 2 minutes from the beach.
Are your products only for people who live by the beach?
The Beach People products are inspired by the sea but for all sea lovers, no matter where you live, it’s really for anyone that loves our aesthetic. We have stores selling our products from Alaska to Osaka and everywhere in-between. I think the people that buy our products love nice things but are still adventurous. It’s an understated luxury - not pretentious at all. It’s for everyone to enjoy.
What has been the biggest achievement so far?
I think success for us is remaining happily married and raising happy children. Business is so up and down so we find it’s best not to let the highs or the lows rule you. We try not to focus on the achievements too much. For me, I would say seeing our team grow, it’s such a privilege to be surrounded by incredibly talented hard working people. Em always says that seeing people out and about using our products is a highlight for her. Some other career highlights would be collaborating with Net-A-Porter, being stocked in Bergdorf Goodmans, Bloomingdales and Selfridges and seeing people love what we do.
How would you describe your style?
Relaxed, ready for adventure, slightly bohemian and understated.
What are the biggest challenges you have had to overcome?
I’m incredibly organised and every day the business throws something out of the blue at you, that’s been a challenge for me. I think it’s also been challenging growing a global business from Australia. We now deal in over 40 different countries which involves multiple entities, tax structures, currencies, time zones, cultures, legalities and the list goes on… it’s not all palm trees and sunshine that’s for sure!
Can people find you on social media?
We love social media, it’s the best way to connect with like-minded sea lovers from all around the world and share what we love. It’s so fun and a huge part of our business.
What’s on the horizon for The Beach People in 2017?
I am very excited to be able to finally talk about our new Bath Collection which launches in the next month. We are working around the clock on some amazing new product categories beyond beach for The Beach People so that’s exciting!