Josh Speeden is an old hand at markets. He’s been running stalls at various markets and music festivals for more than 20 years in Aotearoa and the US. 

During this time, he’s kept a keen eye on what’s hot in accessories. “I had a small clothing company for years, called Creation Products. I designed and printed the clothes, and I always kept up with accessory trends too. I also used to tour the USA on a big music festival, Vans Warped Tour, and pick up trends to bring home.”

The clothing labelled now closed, Speeds Sunglasses is now Josh’s focus. There are three ranges of sunnies (wooden, polarised and a fun festival range), and stylish, well-priced wooden watches. 

A TLBM stalwart, Josh has been there since its inception. “I met my wife Emma there in the first season — she was running a neighbouring stall.” They now own Flux Boutique homewares store in the Mount. While Emma is busy with that, Speeds gives Josh flexibility when it comes to raising their son, Asher. Josh also has a small furniture workshop in Whakamārama, Modern Polish. “I restore antique and mid century furniture and custom-make pieces, which probably explains my love for all things wooden and natural.”