PIP LARNER
In this month’s Margot Muse, we catch up with Scarpa’s co-owner – Pip Larner.
Pip tells us all about how the business started, running a family business with her sister and navigating this Covid world.
Tell us about your business.
Scarpa is a family business! My parents started it 30 years ago bringing European shoes to New Zealand and my sister and I took it over about 3 years ago now. We sell beautiful European and shoes & handbags and are very passionate about fit and quality. We believe not only should the shoes look amazing, they should feel it.
You work in a family business (we love that!), how do you find working with your sister?
My sister Liz and I complement each other – she does the buying and merchandising and I do the creative side – our edms, website and social. We often get one another’s opinion on things. We don’t always agree, and that’s ok!
How do you find juggling work and family life?
My family are very supportive, from my husband and boys to my parents who will always pitch in or be a sounding board. We all have each other’s backs especially in stressful times like now.
“We believe not only should the shoes look amazing, they should feel it.”
What is your skincare and wellbeing daily routine?
I meet my sister and co-owner Liz at the gym weekday mornings (when not in lockdown!) and I walk our dog Solo, it really helps to clear the head. Skincare wise I swear by the Coola BB cream – it’s the best! And I love a facial oil at night and can’t wait to try the Beauty Sleep Elixir. I burn my fav Opal & Sage Citrine candle in my office at home – so beautiful. I take the Sattva Soul capsules to help with stress and energy levels.
What are you challenges in business in this new COVID world?
Like a lot of other retail businesses, we have had to pivot our business to make shopping online easier – so now we have live chat on our website where I can answer any styling, sizing or fit questions and our team are getting used to taking more selfies! Our customers love seeing how we style our shoes and handbags, its far more relatable then seeing them on a model. Liz and I also work in store a lot more now to keep in touch with our customers.
Once the borders open, where in the world do you want to visit?
I would love to take the whole family to visit Italy! Milan, Lake Como and the Amalfi Coast.
To keep your mind, body and spirit uplifted in today’s environment, what mantra or quote would you suggest people live by?
If you don’t try, you’ll never know. If you don’t go after what you want you’ll never get it. And if you never ask, the answer will always be no.
You can shop Scarpa online here.
