Amanda Smith-Ataria
10 YEARS TOGETHER
AMANDA SMITH-ATARIA
Founder Studio Nineteen and Trusted Maman Partner since the Beginning
Every enduring business has its quiet champions, the ones who believe in the dream from the beginning. For Maman, Amanda Smith-Ataria is one of those people.
As Founder of Studio Nineteen, Amanda has been part of Maman’s journey since day one. One of the very first distributors to work with us, Amanda placed her trust in two women building something new, and helped bring that vision to life through the brands she represented. Her belief wasn’t just professional, it was personal, grounded in mutual values of quality, connection, and creativity.
Many of the international labels Amanda brought to Maman in those early days are still on our racks today. Her impeccable eye and intuitive understanding of style have shaped not only our buy each season, but also the way our customers experience fashion: with intention, ease, and elegance.
Operating from a light-filled showroom in Auckland CBD, Studio Nineteen is a quiet powerhouse in the New Zealand fashion industry, curating premium international labels and partnering with leading boutiques around the country. Amanda leads with integrity and care, building meaningful relationships with the designers she represents and the retailers she supports.
Through more than a decade of collaboration, Amanda has remained a constant, offering insight, encouragement, and an evolving selection of brands that perfectly complement Maman’s aesthetic. Her labels reflect what we stand for: timelessness, craftsmanship, and quiet confidence.
As we celebrate Ten Years Together, it’s only fitting that we honour Amanda, a collaborator, confidante, and creative partner whose belief in Maman has never wavered. Her support helped shape who we are today, and we’re endlessly grateful for her continued presence on this journey.
What’s your first memory of working with Maman?
The first buying appointment marked a real milestone. An exciting mix of emotions as Kate and Emma secured some of Maman’s very first brands.
Do you remember the first product or collection of yours that Maman stocked?
PAIGE Denim. We have a shared love of denim which made PAIGE one of the first brands Maman partnered with. At the time, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley had collaborated with PAIGE on a limited edition capsule collection, which we were thrilled to feature as an exclusive with Maman.
How has your partnership with Maman evolved over the years?
Our partnership began prior to Maman’s opening and has grown significantly, grounded in our shared values and passion for international fashion brands. We’ve faced challenges together, adapted to change, and grown more resilient. It’s been rewarding to see how our values have remained aligned and mutually inspired us throughout the years.
What three words would you use to describe Maman as a stockist and partner?
Collaborative. Inspiring. Aligned.
Who first connected you with Maman, and what do you remember about that first interaction?
Kate and I met when we began working together at a previous company. We instantly connected and always shared our dreams of having our own businesses. When Kate told me that her and Emma were launching a boutique, I was so thrilled and had no doubt it would be a success, driven by their combined experience and exceptional sense of style.
Is there a particular Maman campaign, event, or display that stands out to you as a highlight?
Opening night! Seeing Kate and Emma’s vision and hard work come to life was incredible. It was truly special to witness friends, family, and the community coming together to connect and celebrate.
How does Maman present or interpret your brands in a way that you love?
Maman present our brands with authenticity and care, capturing the essence of each brand and sharing this with their community. Their attention to detail and thoughtful curation truly reflect what makes our brands unique.
What has made Maman such a valued wholesale partner over the past decade?
Our shared vision. Trust and commitment. Their beautifully designed space, where they thoughtfully and creatively represent our brands.
If Maman were a person, how would you describe her personality and style?
Kind and welcoming, inspirational and authentic. Effortless mix of sophistication and everyday chic!
What would you like to see from Maman in the next 10 years of partnership?
To keep growing and evolving, maybe open another Maman Boutique, while keeping that personal warmth and uniqueness which which makes them a favourite.
Photographer - Olivia Kirkpatrick
