An interview with our founder, Jo Hutchens

Tell us about yourself?

I live in Sydney with my husband Eric and our darling dog Sumo, a very small Yorkshire Terrier. Our daughter Emily has flown the coop and lives an hour away. I have worked in event management, marketing, advertising and customer service most of my life, and I am also a qualified interior decorator specialising in colour consultancy.

What gets you out of bed every day?

I love what I do, everything about what I do, even the packing and the heavy lifting. I like to work hard with what I have been given, to live a whole and full life, and hopefully to bring encouragement, positivity and joy to others.

What wakes you up at 3am?

My to do list. Actually, I have learnt to love waking at 3am, because it is often the whisper of an idea, and I have taught myself to listen rather than be grumpy about the lack of sleep. I keep a journal beside the bed nowadays.

What is your favourite flower?

Magnolia Grandiflora, without a doubt. The fragrance, the shape, the colour, the leaves. Perfection, and we have two in our garden.

How did you end up doing what you do today?

My very first job was coordinating gift trade fairs across Australia, and the visitors were all giftware and homewares retailers. That led me to dream about my own store. My father and grandparents owned printing businesses when I was very young, and I am sure that sparked my appreciation for beautiful packaging and stationery.

Why gifts?

I love the process of creating or selecting the perfect gift for someone you love. I love to wrap it, watch it being opened, and see it used or displayed in their home. More importantly, I love the words that are said, or that do not need to be said, when you honour someone with generosity. Words put value and purpose into our lives. This is the mission of Well Versed Homes.