From friends at school gates to business partners

Laura Ruddy and Katie Bayfield are co-founders of Norfolk Luxury Lifestyle, the independent lifestyle brand based in Black Barn Farm near Norwich. Here, they explain how a friendship at the school gates has turned into a business partnership

Who are you and what do you do?

We’re Laura and Katie, founders of Norfolk Luxury Lifestyle – an independent interiors and lifestyle brand. We curate a collection of furniture, home décor and one-of-a-kind pieces, alongside offering interior design services, bespoke cabinetry and in-store personalisation.

How do you know each other?

We met at the school gates – like so many friendships do – and quickly realised we shared the same passion for interiors, business and creating something of our own.

What do you love about living and working in Norfolk?

Norfolk has such a special feel to it. We feel incredibly lucky to be surrounded by beautiful countryside, inspiring local businesses, and customers who genuinely champion independent brands.

When did you first have the idea for Norfolk Luxury Lifestyle and what is the thinking behind it?

The idea came quite naturally from our shared love of interiors and sourcing pieces that felt different – things you wouldn’t see everywhere else. We wanted to create a space where people could come for inspiration without it feeling intimidating, while also offering a considered range of price points so there’s something for everyone.

How has it evolved since then?

It’s grown far beyond what we first imagined. What started as a passion project has become an award-winning showroom and online store, with additional services including interior design, bespoke furniture and commercial projects. We’re constantly evolving – always looking for new pieces, new ideas and new ways to inspire.

How do you complement each other as business partners?

We naturally balance each other. We share the same vision and standards, but bring different strengths to the table, which works incredibly well. Having someone to share both the highs and the challenges with is invaluable, especially when running a business that never really switches off.

How affordable can a little bit of luxury be, in your opinion?

We believe luxury doesn’t have to mean expensive. Even a small piece – a candle, a diffuser or a beautifully chosen accessory – can completely elevate a space. We always aim to offer a range that feels accessible without compromising on quality or style.

Where is your showroom? How important is it to you to support the local community? Where else can you be found nowadays?

Our showroom is based at Black Barn Farm in Salhouse, Norfolk. We love to support local businesses – whether that’s collaborating with other brands, hosting events or giving back where we can.

Community means a great deal to us. We recently helped fundraise for a defibrillator at Black Barn Farm, through SADS UK, which we’re incredibly proud to have secured for such a well-visited location.

Alongside the showroom, we also sell online and work on projects across Norfolk and beyond, including commercial spaces.

What are your hopes and dreams for Norfolk Luxury Lifestyle?

We want to keep growing, evolving and inspiring. Expanding our reach while still maintaining that personal, independent feel is really important to us. Ultimately, we want Norfolk Luxury Lifestyle to become a go-to destination – both locally and beyond.

Visit Norfolk Luxury Lifestyle.

Featured images – supplied