ON PAPER, HAYLEY BONHAM is not your average entrepreneur. For starters, she’s a young woman, she’s a stylist on
the side and she founded a public relations agency at the age of 27. But she has a confidence and wisdom that belies
her years. “I’ve always seen things differently, even as a child I’d think up concepts and ideas,” Hayley says of her ability
to spot a gap in the market and turn it into something people want. It’s this talent, not to mention creativity, tenacity and
vision, that saw Hayley launch the fragrance brand Maison D’Amour in 2011 with a friend. She describes it as a “passion
project” that was conceived when they couldn’t find the perfect premium unisex scent. “Business came naturally to me;
I love being around people and strategising,” she tells. “I actually studied fashion and nutrition because I couldn’t decide
on the direction I wanted to take, so my business arm is self taught.” After working for fashion brands and PR firms early
in her career, she started her own, Bonel PR, with her partner in life and business Rory Elsom. She quickly learnt “to take
risks and surround yourself with mentors who you can trust that offer great advice”. In 2015, the couple did just that and
opened the first La Porte Space – a luxury serviced office, retail and creative hub – in Sydney. The idea was borne while
travelling and working from inspiring environments overseas “that hadn’t been seen in Australia before”. Since then, they
have launched a second Sydney venue, La Porte Space Deux, the floral concept store Leafy De Lune, a pop-up space
in Paris and La Porte Wellness, which has fitness studios, clinics and an infrared sauna. Despite her schedule, Hayley’s
trying to find balance and prioritise her own wellness. “If we don’t look after ourselves, we can’t perform at the level that
is required,” she says. “Walking our dog and meditation are non-negotiables.” No, she’s not your average entrepreneur. APieces & quiet A West Elm lamp and a vase from Papaya
adorn Hayley’s bedside table. Ahead of the curve Perched
on an MCM House sofa beneath artworks by Caroline Walls,
Hayley (opposite) says the living area is her favourite room.
at HOME World class Hayley’s approach to decorating mirrors her own personal style, which
she describes as “minimal and classic with an androgynous twist. I love a white shirt
and well-cut trousers for work.” Her wardrobe features earthy tones too, “particularly
in summer, when I want to feel like I’m in Italy or the south of France”.real living
31loving