MEET GEORGIA

The Founder of the islander

I’m Georgia, the founder of The Islander, and I am so happy to welcome you to my special corner of the internet. Have you ever been curious about the inspiration behind my brand? It all began with my passion for blending my creativity with the beautiful finds I’ve discovered around the globe—from the Isle of Wight to India, Sri Lanka, and everywhere in between. I design pieces and collaborate with talented artisans, businesses and families I've met on my journeys to bring these unique creations to life. All to bring you the most stunning, high quality items.

Early Roots and inspiration

I was born and raised mostly on the beautiful little Isle of Wight, surrounded by the beauty of the coast. Growing up, my grandparents owned a small family-run beach business (on Small Hope Beach, in Shanklin), where summers were spent renting out deck chairs and sun beds. This early exposure to the beach life sparked a deep love for travel the world, exploring and meeting new people. Growing up with a mum who made and designs clothes and fabrics in her own small business was eye opening and pathed a way for me in terms of The Islander.

A Passion For travel and Exploration

Growing up with a single mum with 3 of us kids meant holidays for us were exploring the UK, camping in beautiful corners of England and spending days fishing and playing on beaches. I found my first job at the age of 14 and from then on I've always worked hard. Usually working 2/3 jobs at a time, when I turned 19, I knew I wanted to explore the World. Watching the movie 'The Beach' inspired me to save up my pennies and get a one way flight to Thailand. By 21 I was off on my adventures abroad, exploring different beaches and cultures around the world.

Turning Challenges into Opportunities

I've had my fair share of ups and downs, but to me, that is what makes life unique and exciting. My story isn't a sad story, it's a story of strength and resilience. Over the last 5 years especially, I was in a court case for my domestic abuse, lost some very important people in my life and after a ectopic pregnancy surgery, received a diagnosis of stage 4 endometriosis that brought unexpected challenges as well as fantastic strength. Despite the difficulties and the realisation that I couldn't have children, I decided to focus on living life on my own terms. These moments shaped who I am today and gave me the strength to take a leap into starting my own small business.

How My Items Are Created

My items are made across the world, whether it be here on the Isle of Wight by local companies, or the few talented artisans in India and Sri Lanka that I now call friends. My items come with an idea from me and then I get to work, whether it be flying to India to source fabrics, sat on my iPad for days designing or sat with a tape measurer and an idea getting my talented mum to make a sample up for me in her spare room. I then get to work at sending either the artwork or the idea's and measurements to the best people for the job.

Thanks for stopping by and listening to my story.

With love from the Isle of Wight,

Georgia xx