Monelle is photographed wearing our Eileen Relaxed Button-Up in Vintage Stonewashed Indigo Famous Denim and our Derry Signature Jean in White.
MONELLE: I have worked in all areas of retail, from merchandising to product design, from bedding to furniture to dinnerware and traveled all over the world, visiting small family-owned factories. After seeing the artistry in European ceramics, fabrics and so on, it came quite naturally to build a brand based on items that we found that were unlike anything else we had seen in the marketplace. We worked with old molds from the 1900s that we asked to be put back in production. We wanted the creamiest, most perfect white for our dinnerware and oversized platters.
We edited and curated an assortment. Many of those pieces have stayed for the last 12 years, becoming core items. We were inspired to be a destination for everything you need to entertain graciously and the pieces that make your 'house' a 'home.'
MONELLE: I have worked in all areas of retail, from merchandising to product design, from bedding to furniture to dinnerware and traveled all over the world, visiting small family-owned factories. After seeing the artistry in European ceramics, fabrics and so on, it came quite naturally to build a brand based on items that we found that were unlike anything else we had seen in the marketplace. We worked with old molds from the 1900s that we asked to be put back in production. We wanted the creamiest, most perfect white for our dinnerware and oversized platters.
We edited and curated an assortment. Many of those pieces have stayed for the last 12 years, becoming core items. We were inspired to be a destination for everything you need to entertain graciously and the pieces that make your 'house' a 'home.'
MONELLE: I truly love to entertain, and family-style is my favorite—it brings people together, passing around platters of delicious food. The conversation is always lively... and there are always ice cream sandwiches for dessert (I’m not a baker).
There’s always candlelight and music, plus a well-stocked bar with plenty of glasses (you don’t want to have to wash during dinner). I keep the wine and champagne chilled around the house so people can help themselves. I do try to avoid spending too much time in the kitchen, even though that’s where everyone seems to gather!
MONELLE: I truly love to entertain, and family-style is my favorite—it brings people together, passing around platters of delicious food. The conversation is always lively... and there are always ice cream sandwiches for dessert (I’m not a baker).
There’s always candlelight and music, plus a well-stocked bar with plenty of glasses (you don’t want to have to wash during dinner). I keep the wine and champagne chilled around the house so people can help themselves. I do try to avoid spending too much time in the kitchen, even though that’s where everyone seems to gather!
Monelle is photographed wearing our Patrick Popover Henley in Evergreen Triple Fleece and our Derry Signature Jean in our 2001 wash.
Monelle is photographed wearing our Patrick Popover Henley in Evergreen Triple Fleece and our Derry Signature Jean in our 2001 wash.
MONELLE: Travel is one of my greatest sources of inspiration—anywhere and everywhere! My go-to sources are my travels around the world. Interior design—from a hotel room, a restaurant, or a museum to my favorite, the flea markets in Europe. There is always something to be found... I can be inspired by a great exhibit or something as simple as a print or pattern I see on someone walking down the street.
Books and magazines are also a constant source. I have a collection of old World of Interiors that I pour through all the time.
MONELLE: Travel is one of my greatest sources of inspiration—anywhere and everywhere! My go-to sources are my travels around the world. Interior design—from a hotel room, a restaurant, or a museum to my favorite, the flea markets in Europe. There is always something to be found... I can be inspired by a great exhibit or something as simple as a print or pattern I see on someone walking down the street.
Books and magazines are also a constant source. I have a collection of old World of Interiors that I pour through all the time.
F&E: As a successful founder of a woman-led brand, what advice would you share with other women who are aspiring to start their own businesses, particularly in the home goods and décor industry?
MONELLE: First and foremost—be passionate about anything you go after. It's hard work, and that passion will keep you going.
Get experience, learn from a mentor, someone you admire—ask questions, and then ask more. Ask yourself if there's a need in the marketplace that will set you apart.
Ecomm and social media have been eye-opening. There are so many ways to start a business beyond opening a shop—but nothing is more rewarding than engaging with customers who quickly become your friends.
F&E: Your recent collaboration with Diane Keaton has garnered a lot of attention. Tell us a bit about this exciting launch and how the collaboration came to be. Can you share any behind-the-scenes details or highlights from working with Diane on this project?
MONELLE: It began with a friendship between Diane and me when I met her at the Brentwood store—we stayed in touch.
When we thought about a collaboration, it was so important that it felt right and authentic. And when I got the courage to ask, I got a resounding “yes!” She loves Hudson Grace as much as we love her.
We had a mutual appreciation for creating inspirational spaces and timeless designs. After a few visits to her beautiful home and spending time talking about design and product, it became apparent this would be seamless and a true fit for both of us. She has a playful irreverence and wit that make her the perfect partner. Having a glass of Lillet in her Keaton glass to toast the friendship was a highlight! I adore her.
Monelle is photographed wearing our Anna Long-Sleeve Capelet in Black Triple Fleece and our Derry Signature Jean in our 2001 wash.
MONELLE: It’s so hard to pick just three! I love our berry bowl—it has such a great history. It's an interpretation of a French cheese strainer that we sent to Italy for our mold maker to recreate. I have three of them; I use them for berries, cherry tomatoes, lemons...love! Our candles are another favorite and something we’re known for. Depending on the season, I have a different go-to. In the fall, it’s Brentwood (with that warm scent of cypress oak and smoke), and in the spring, or for my bedroom, Savannah—the most perfect scent of Magnolia. Lastly, our linen napkins are a must! They come in 24 colors, so you can build an entire dinner party around them.
At Hudson Grace, we always design with beauty and practicality in mind. You’ll find everything you need to entertain graciously. We’ve curated a creative mix of gifts—to give and to get—designed for those who have a passion for the home. Our collections are an authentic mix of unexpected treasures, each with a European touch.
MONELLE: It’s so hard to pick just three! I love our berry bowl—it has such a great history. It's an interpretation of a French cheese strainer that we sent to Italy for our mold maker to recreate. I have three of them; I use them for berries, cherry tomatoes, lemons...love! Our candles are another favorite and something we’re known for. Depending on the season, I have a different go-to. In the fall, it’s Brentwood (with that warm scent of cypress oak and smoke), and in the spring, or for my bedroom, Savannah—the most perfect scent of Magnolia. Lastly, our linen napkins are a must! They come in 24 colors, so you can build an entire dinner party around them.
At Hudson Grace, we always design with beauty and practicality in mind. You’ll find everything you need to entertain graciously. We’ve curated a creative mix of gifts—to give and to get—designed for those who have a passion for the home. Our collections are an authentic mix of unexpected treasures, each with a European touch.
MONELLE: Anyone who knows me knows I love a party coat! (And a party!) I’ve collected duchess satin coats in hot pink or black—perfect for a last-minute invite. Just throw on a tapered black pant, a kitten heel, and off you go! But for the most part, I’m casual. My uniform is jeans and a white shirt (which I collect) or a crewneck cashmere sweater (or any sweater, really) and a white tee. Honestly, I’m now addicted to F&E denim—they’re so comfortable I had to buy them in both blue and white.
MONELLE: Anyone who knows me knows I love a party coat! (And a party!) I’ve collected duchess satin coats in hot pink or black—perfect for a last-minute invite. Just throw on a tapered black pant, a kitten heel, and off you go! But for the most part, I’m casual. My uniform is jeans and a white shirt (which I collect) or a crewneck cashmere sweater (or any sweater, really) and a white tee. Honestly, I’m now addicted to F&E denim—they’re so comfortable I had to buy them in both blue and white.
Monelle is photographed wearing Anna Long-Sleeve Capelet in Black Triple Fleece and our Catherine Favorite Sweatpant in Black.
Thanks for cozying up for 'a cuppa with' Monelle!
To keep up with Monelle and the latest from Hudson Grace:
MORE 'A CUPPA WITH'
ALEX YESKE
Founder of Alex Yeske Interiors
"I do a ton of antiquing, visiting estate sales and flea markets, which really shows through the curation of objects and pieces throughout our home."
LIZ EICHHOLZ AND LINDSEY JOHNSON
Co-Founders of Weezie Towels
"I often feel inspired to create things I wish existed or solve problems I encounter myself, like the attached tie on our robe or buttons on the sleeves."
CAROLINE HARPER KNAPP
Interior Designer, Content Creator, Founder of HOUSE of Harper
"I discovered immense joy from sharing my passion for beautiful antiques, art, and fabrics, bringing them together in an approachable way to create livable spaces for families to better enjoy their homes."