Pear - Inspiring unique spaces

Lisa Turpie is no stranger to the Whakatāne retail scene, having previously owned The Good Life on The Strand for eight years. Her new venture on Appenzel Drive, Pear, is a home furnishing and furniture store offering French and European-inspired pieces.

"I've always been in retail and love helping people," Lisa says, "and I live quite nearby so saw that this area has so much potential. Whakatāne is awesome, and I wanted to open something that complemented the other stores. It was just a matter of finding a niche – and I think I've found it."

"Whakatāne is awesome, and I wanted to open something that complemented the other stores."

Her advice to others is to be passionate about what you’re doing. "Starting a business is hard work, a lifestyle choice, but make sure you get good advice and do your homework."

Lisa also says she is fortunate to have loyal friends and customers she’s met over the years who know and trust her taste. "I know what I like and have had really good feedback," she says, "and I'm keen to inspire people with the products I have to create unique spaces in their homes." Pear is certainly doing that with style.

This article originally appeared in Plenty magazine.