Our Story
Barkworth Reeve:
Where Understated Elegance Meets Modern Functionality
A Kitchen Table Dream
It started at a scrubbed pine table in a bustling family kitchen in Harrogate, on the edge of the magnificent Yorkshire Dales. Amidst the chaos of family life, that Barkworth Reeve was born. Our founder, Jennie Parker, had a vision: to create a rannge of beautiful accessories that seamlessly blended a country heritage aesthetic with modern functionality, with a nod to her beloved equestrian style.
Passion Stitched into Every Detail
At Barkworth Reeve, we're not just creating accessories; we're crafting something which will become your companion for life's adventures. Each piece is a testament to our unwavering commitment to quality and timeless style. We pour our hearts into every detail, every tack stitch, every finishing touch. Why? Because we believe that you deserve accessories that work as hard as you do and look effortlessly chic while doing it.
Our founder's mantra is "God is in the details" and its those details, whether its in the product or the service that we believe matter, and which make a difference, and which are the reason we have customers who come back to us again and again.
Timeless Elegance, Not Fleeting Trends
In a world of fast fashion and disposable trends, we stand for something different. We're in awe and constantly inspired by the timeless beauty of the British countryside and the enduring elegance of equestrian style. Our accessories aren't just for a season; they're for life. We resonate deeply with William Morris's philosophy: surround yourself with things that are useful and beautiful. At Barkworth Reeve, we strive to create products that are both - functional marvels (which you'll love) wrapped in stunning design.
Thoughtful Design
Every Barkworth Reeve piece is a treasure trove of carefully considered details. We obsess over the little things - a perfectly placed pocket, a strap that sits just right, a clasp that's secure and a silhouette thats perfectly balanced. These aren't mass-produced afterthoughts; they're the result of meticulous design and a genuine desire to make your life a little bit easier and a lot more stylish.
The Personal Touch in Every Product
Barkworth Reeve isn't a faceless corporate venture. It's not a huge team, it's small and it's personal. It's a love letter to the remarkable women who inspired our brand name and to you - the woman who carries our accessories. As a mother and a business owner, I understand the juggling act that is modern life. We wear a lot of metaphorical hats, and that's why I'm dedicated to creating beautiful, functional accessories that stand the test of time, work hard, and which you can rely on time and time again.
Fair Pricing, Exceptional Value
At Barkworth Reeve, we believe in transparency and fairness. Our pricing reflects the true value of our materials and craftsmanship. Sometimes, this means we accept a little less profit to stay true to our principles. Might not be how most people would function, but its a pillar of who we are. We're building more than a brand; we're serving and incredible tribe of women who appreciate quality, style, and integrity.
Becoming part of Our Story
Every Barkworth Reeve accessory is more than just a beautiful object - it's a piece of our journey, and we invite you to make it part of yours. Whether you're powering through city streets or rambling in the countryside with the dogs and kids, our accessories are designed to complement your style and simplify your life.
Discover the Barkworth Reeve difference. Experience accessories that are as versatile, elegant, and enduring as the women who inspire us. Welcome to our world of timeless luxury with a Yorkshire heart.
Our Founder, Jennie Parker in her kitchen
Sourcing
We only source leather from LWG certified tanneries. The Leather Working Group is the leading environmental certification for leather and means it is tanned in an environmentally responsible way. All of our leather is tanned within a mile of the family owned and run factory where it is produced and has a minimal carbon footprint. Our hides are tanned to order, reducing waste, and we use our handbag offcuts to produce our smaller gifting products
We use metal hardware which can be recycled when a bag comes to the end of its life, and we are working towards using YKK Natulon zips which have 100% recycled polyester zip tape – we aren’t there yet, but it will happen. Our bag linings are either LWG certified leather or Cotton.
Design Details
The story behind the shape of the branded plate which you will see on all our bags is an example of this. I knew I wanted a shape which was clean and fluid, no strong angles. I had messed around sketching various shapes, Bertie kept jumping up (he wanted to be let out to chase the wood pigeons which were taunting him on the fence in the garden). Whilst stroking his velvety head it just clicked,
I sketched out the shape of his little nose and the shape evolved from there.
ARTISAN CRAFTMANSHIP
considered design and quality materials
Learn about
our process
All Barkworth Reeve branded products are designed in the UK (by owner and founder, Jennie Parker).
The brand’s signature aesthetic is inspired by saddlery, hours spent cleaning tack as a youngster, and a thorough understanding of the leather, coupled with a love of playing with material combinations create a unique brand aesthetic.
Our emphasis is on timeless silhouettes, an elegant equestrain aesthetic with carefully considered hardwear, functionality front and centre and allowing our stunning material combinations to sing! A recipie we hope you'll love.
Because we design all of our products from scratch the first sample generally needs some refinement.
The materials, the construction, the aesthetic and the usability are all reviewed, tweaked and aligned to bring you the best possible quality and functionality
We manufacture here in the UK, and also abroard dependant upon the product.
Our silk scarves are all produced in the UK, printed, hand finished finished, everything.
Our woollen knitted scarves are all manufactured in the UK.
Our bags and leather accessories, are produced for us by an incredible family run factory based in India. Our leather is all produced to order to minimise waste by an LWG tannery and we make a consious effort to ensure minimal wasteage with the production of our smaller gifting items (keyrings & pouches).
Our hats are produced for us by a wonderful UK based supplier who manufactures in the Far East.