Resilience in Bloom: Emily Riggs on Nature's Embrace and Creative Courage

Welcome to Koala Eco's Hour in Nature, where we delve into the lives of those who intertwine their personal journeys with nature. In this interview, we speak with Emily Riggs, the visionary founder of Iris & Wool. Her story is not just about overcoming adversity; it's a poignant narrative of finding solace and inspiration in the natural world.

Emily's journey into the world of fashion was born out of necessity—a way to cope with the traumatic loss of her mother to breast cancer and her own battle with Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma at just 9 years old. Her resilient spirit saw her through dark times with the comforting companionship of her pony, Stardust. Years later, married to Tom, a fifth-generation merino sheep farmer, and after welcoming her first child, Emily actualised her dream by founding Iris & Wool. Her designs not only celebrate the natural beauty and quality of merino wool but also carry forward the legacy of her mother through the charity work intertwined with her business. Each sale contributes to the Childhood Cancer Association. Emily shares how her connection with nature, the healing power of horses, and the legacy of her mother's favourite flower, the Iris, continue to inspire her life and work.

What’s your favourite thing to do in nature?

I don't get to do it as often as I'd like, but when I'm on my magnificent horse Magic Man, the experience is incredibly liberating! The breeze, the scent of the horse, and the surrounding nature create a perfect blend of joy. When we're astride our horses, our core rests just above their hearts. They know far more than we ever will.

What are your fondest memories of spending time in nature?

As a horse crazy young girl. These memories are my fondest. It was a space for me as a child to be imaginative and dream up my wildest dreams of what I wanted to do and wanted to be. Riding my pony Stardust definitely helped me get through the toughest time of my life, battling cancer as a 9 year old year and losing my mother to the same disease at the same time. Riding was a form of escapism and I really believe in the healing powers of horses. They sense your emotions too. The feeling of being at one with your horse is indescribable and we place so much trust in them. Horses are the best!

What is your favourite natural scent, and why?

I love the smell of roses, reminds me of my dear grandmother.

Is there an animal or plant that you’ve always felt particularly drawn to, and can you explain why?  

I’ve always been an animal and nature lover. I think after losing mum at such a young age I often look for her in Mother Nature. From the morning light hitting a silvery frost to the sun setting through the branches of a gum tree especially in autumn and in the purple petals of her favourite flower the Iris. And it’s why the beauty of nature continues to inspire my collections.