Brands of Tomorrow is Walpole's business mentoring programme for emerging luxury brands. Over the course of a year, we take up to 12 carefully selected, early-stage brands through a twelve-month programme of workshops and professional mentoring that will help develop their business skills and set them on a path to growth. Discover all of our Brands of Tomorrow 2025 here
Walpole: What is your career background – and how did that lead to launching your company?
Molly Mahon: I didn’t come from a traditional design or business background. In fact, my journey into block printing began as a personal passion. I was a mother of young children seeking a creative outlet that brought joy, colour and a sense of purpose to my days. During a workshop in Sussex, I discovered the magic of block printing and it completely changed my life. The beauty, the imperfections, the tactile process – it all struck a chord. From my kitchen table, I began carving, printing and experimenting and slowly, what started as a creative spark grew into something much bigger.
Tell us about your company...
At Molly Mahon, we create joyful, handcrafted textiles, wallpapers and homewares rooted in the ancient art of block printing. Every piece starts with a carved wooden block, hand-printed using water based inks and sustainable materials. Our collections are inspired by the beauty of everyday life, pattern in nature, the charm of an English garden or the colourful chaos of India. We believe homes should be a source of happiness, and our pieces are designed to bring warmth and individuality into every space.
Why was launching this company important to you?
It was important because I wanted to bring creativity, colour and craftsmanship back into the heart of our homes. I also saw an opportunity to celebrate and preserve the traditional skills of artisans, particularly the incredible printers I work with in India. There's a sense of soul and humanity in these processes that you just can’t replicate with machines. Starting this company felt like a way to honour that, while also creating something meaningful for others.
How does your company represent the future of British luxury?
The future of British luxury lies in storytelling, quality and soul. At Molly Mahon, we champion the integrity of handmade craft, the nostalgia of tradition, and the rarity of true artistry, offering timeless, deeply personal designs. Rooted in heritage yet uplifted by a modern spirit, our pieces are tactile, responsible, and full of heart.
What’s an important value for you that you’ve ensured is part of your business?
Joy. It’s woven into everything we do, from the prints themselves to how we work with our team and makers. I truly believe that joy is a powerful, transformative force and I’ve always wanted our brand to be a celebration of that. Alongside joy, there’s a deep respect for craft, people and planet. These principles guide every decision we make.
Tell me about an obstacle you’ve experienced in establishing your business, and how you overcame it?
One of the biggest challenges was moving from being a one-woman creative to building a business. I had to learn quickly about everything from production logistics to cash flow, all while keeping the creative vision alive. There were moments of real doubt and fear. But I surrounded myself with brilliant people, constantly asked questions and stayed anchored to why I started in the first place. That clarity of purpose helps me push through!
What is your ultimate goal for your business? What’s the dream?
The dream is to continue to grow a global brand that brings joy, beauty and meaning into people’s homes; enabling home makers to create spaces that feel deeply personal and uplifting. I’d love to keep collaborating, exploring new products and collections and perhaps even open a flagship space that embodies the full Molly Mahon world. But, most importantly, I want to keep creating from the heart, working with incredible artisans and inspiring others to embrace creativity in their own lives.
What’s a key piece of advice you’d share with another entrepreneur that you’ve learned or been given on your journey?
One of the best pieces of advice I’ve ever received is to stay true to your vision, even when things get tough. There will always be noise, pressure and moments when it’s tempting to compromise. But if your foundation is strong and your purpose is clear, it becomes your compass. That’s what’s kept me going: knowing that I’m building something authentic and lasting.
Learn more about Molly Mahon at mollymahon.com
