Capra Designs were the very first business that I officially mentored back in February 2017 when Capra was in it’s very early years and Bianca was a new mum to her son Banjo.
Capra Designs was born out of designers Bianca and Thomas’ love for their collection of plants, plants which required equally beautiful pots and stands. Capra Designs is passionate about products with great function and form. Each piece is designed in Flinders, Victoria and handcrafted in Vietnam.
The Why: First inspired by nature, Capra Designs holds a commitment to operate thoughtfully through the practices, processes and materials that bring our designs to life. We are ever pursuing cleaner and lighter alternatives that are kinder on the planet.
The Way: Capra’s efforts begin at the start of the design process where we maintain a core timeless colour palette with small complementary seasonal additions and shape variations.
Bianca started out hand making resin pots in a studio in her backyard and one of the first things we worked on was outsourcing her production. She now has all of her products handmade in a small batch factories in Vietnam and Portugal.
Resin was the cornerstone of the business for many years but Bianca recently launched a brand new cork range which I think is her best range yet.
You can find the full range of products on their website.
I am so incredibly proud of Bianca and all she has created. Not only are her products incredibly beautiful but so much thought is put into the production, usability and sustainability. So much so that Bunnings here in Australia asked her to design a range specifically for their stores.
Not only is Capra a local superstar, they are also adored internationally with their products found in major retailers such as Anthropologie and Ssence.
I sent Bianca some not so typical questions prior to writing this and I love not only her answers but that she matched my crazy.
1. If your business was a superhero, what would its superpower be?
We’d have the power of instant design transformation! One touch, and a dull, lifeless room is suddenly bursting with colour, creativity, and eco-chic flair. Picture a stylish cork trivet saving your dining table from mediocrity, cape and all.
2. Picture your ideal customer. What’s their guilty pleasure TV show?
Oh, they’re absolutely watching Selling Sunset. They love a mix of luxury, drama, and fabulous interiors—while dreaming of where they’ll put their next Capra Designs piece.
3. What’s your business’s secret sauce that makes customers choose you over the “boring” alternatives?
Our secret sauce is a dash of sustainable magic mixed with a heaping spoonful of personality. Sure, other brands make stuff, but we make pieces that are thoughtful, playful, and designed to bring joy to your space. You’re not just buying a planter—you’re investing in a story, a vibe, a moment.
4. What was your “I’ve made a huge mistake” moment in the first year, and how did you turn it around?
There was a moment when I looked around and realised—oh no, we’re completely out of stock. During the holiday season. Panic mode! But instead of sinking, we rolled out pre-orders, added a personal “thank you for your patience” note with each purchase, and even threw in some surprise goodies. Suddenly, what felt like a disaster became an opportunity to build deeper customer love.
5. If your customer acquisition strategy was a dating app, what would be its catchy slogan?
“Swipe right for sustainable style.” Because, honestly, who can resist a match that’s beautiful, mindful, and doesn’t ghost you after a couple of months?
6. How do you make it rain (revenue-wise)? Describe your money-making magic in a haiku!
Earth’s finest treasures,
Crafted with hands and heartstrings,
Buy two—just for you!
7. Who’s your business’s arch-nemesis (aka main competitor), and what’s their dastardly plan?
Meet The Beige Brigade, champions of bland, mass-produced home goods that turn every room into a snooze fest. Their evil plot? Flood the world with boring, forgettable stuff. But don’t worry—we’re here to fight them off with bright colours, bold designs, and sustainable materials!
When I told Bianca I was going into mentoring full time she was really excited for me. Given her enthusiasm I cheekily asked her if she could share what it was like to be mentored by me and this isher response:
‘Kristy was pivotal in mentoring me to transform what was once a side hustle into a thriving full-fledged business. Her years of experience and practical advice provided a solid foundation, but it was her unique ability to teach me how to get out of my own way that truly made the difference. This profound lesson empowered me to step outside my comfort zone and take a chance on myself.
Kristy’s deep knowledge of product production, wholesale, and ecommerce is unparalleled. Her guidance in navigating the complexities of production processes, understanding the wholesale market, and optimising ecommerce operations was instrumental in my business’s growth.
More than just a mentor, Kristy was a catalyst for my personal and professional development. I am incredibly grateful for her mentorship, which has been a cornerstone of my success. I wholeheartedly recommend Kristy to anyone looking to elevate their business and unlock their true potential.‘
I can’t wait to see what the future holds for Capra Designs, I have no doubt it will be amazing.
If you would like to find out more about Capra or purchase one of their gorgeous designs head across to their website
