Over 30 years of experience.
Masters of perfection. Seriously, they are good... Step in and meet the team.
Our Story
Established in Queenstown in 2003, Bevan Garland first began trading as Remarkable Upholstery in the corner of a shared workshop with nothing more than a sewing machine, pair of scissors and a staple gun. The business grew significantly resulting in a second workshop in Wanaka and Bevan’s second business Upholstery Alley, focusing on classic car restorations. Due to the success of Upholstery Alley, Remarkable Upholstery was relocated from Queenstown to Wanaka for Bevan to oversee all projects. After 4 years operating in Wanaka, a fresh start was made at the beginning of 2015 with the name Remarkable Upholstery being laid to rest and the business being re-branded as Wanaka Upholstery. In 2016 our own fabric showroom and fine bedding boutique was opened in downtown Wanaka, Whistling Reindeer, managed by Bonnie. Showcasing some of the highest quality linen bedding crafted by Bevan here in Wanaka from authentic Belgian linen. The arrival of Bevan's second daughter prompted the move home, both the workshop and Whistling Reindeer, to spend more time with his family, and they have since welcomed a son. Both businesses now offer a more personal service - We can come to you by appointment.
The Upholsterer
Bevan Garland - Master Upholsterer
Bevan, the proud owner and operator of Wanaka Upholstery and Upholstery Alley, is a second-generation upholsterer with over 30 years’ experience under his belt. Bevan’s skills have been recognised by the International Guild of Master Craftsman and he was awarded the title of Master Upholsterer. Bevan’s interest in upholstery began whilst working with his father in his younger years before being offered an apprenticeship with Steve’s Auto Marine Trimmers in Auckland. Bevan continued working with his father at Garland’s Furnishers and Upholsterers, honing his skills with antiques and period pieces. After a stint in Sydney working on boat and yacht interiors Bevan returned to Steve’s Auto Marine Trimmers, and then made the move down to Queenstown where his first business venture, Remarkable Upholstery, was born.
The Admin Specialist
Bonnie Dewhurst - Operations Manager
Bonnie, born and raised in Melbourne, Australia, came to New Zealand for a winter in 2012 and as your classic Queenstown expat story goes, stayed. Well traveled and experienced in various retail and hospitality roles, Bonnie eventually settled on a career in travel, studying and then working as a Corporate Travel Consultant for American Express before temping at a smaller independent agency, CTM, both in Melbourne. Hospitality being an excellent employment option for any location brought her to meet Bevan during her time in Queenstown. Bonnie began assisting Bevan with admin tasks in 2014 and together they created Whistling Reindeer, which became a successful wedding table linen hire business. Today, Bonnie handles all the day to day operations for Wanaka Upholstery. Now, they reside together in Hawea Flat with their 3 children.
"I have found Bevan to be an experienced, qualified, knowledgeable and fair professional tradesman. I have no hesitation recommending his services.”