Behind the Scenes

Who we are - Meet the founders

Meet Guðrun Ludvig & Guðrun Rógvadóttir

Friends and business partners for over two decades; we are two women from the Faroe Islands, each with unique skills but sharing a passion for design, innovation, sustainability, and people. And, as fate would have it, we both share the name Guðrun. On our islands, we have a saying: *ull er Føroya gull* – wool is Faroese gold. Yet, at the turn of the century, this cherished proverb was fading. Imported goods had taken centre stage, and the value of our native wool was overlooked, leading to it being burned rather than used. United by our shared dismay at this waste, we came together to breathe life back into this tradition, forming the brand you know today.

Guðrun Ludvig – Creative Director

The creative force of our tiny fashion house, Guðrun Ludvig has always had a deep connection with wool. Growing up in Suðuroy, the southernmost island of the Faroes, she loved to settle in the harbour watching the visitors getting off the ferry and admiring their unique fashion styles - a colourful hat, a beautifully knitted scarf - all sources of inspiration to fuel her own creativity. Her passion began early, starting with a childhood knitting club where she and her friends crafted clothes for their dolls. This interest evolved, leading her to study at designer school and worked with mentor and Danish designer Sabine Poupinel.

Upon returning to the Faroes, Guðrun pursued her passion for knitting, this time focusing on Faroese wool. It was then she met her future business partner, Guðrun Rógvadóttir. Today, as Creative Director, she continues to design new pieces for Guðrun & Guðrun, drawing inspiration from the serene beauty of her homeland, even as she travels to discover new cultures and ideas.

the portrait of ludvig

Guðrun Rógvadóttir – Commercial Director

Taking care of the business side of things, there’s Guðrun Rógvadóttir. Raised in the capital with the freedom to explore, she cherished the relaxed island life. Her curiosity about other cultures and desire to help those in need sparked an interest in global outreach from a young age. This philanthropic drive, combined with an unwavering confidence, has defined her belief that anything is possible.

Guðrun Rógvadóttir’s dream of making a meaningful difference led her to work on EU projects worldwide. Yet, the aspiration to build something of her own remained. In 2000, she reached out to Guðrun Ludvig about the wasted potential of Faroese wool, and together, they formed Guðrun & Guðrun.

Now, more than 20 years later, Guðrun Rógvadóttir leads the global expansion of the brand, overseeing its commercial and digital growth. Her love for travel and dedication to uplifting others remain as strong as ever.

the photo of Guðrun Rógvadóttir
By: Alex Kessler
Photographed by: Jackson Bowley
Date: September 16, 2024
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