Founded in London in 1990, Ashbury & Wren began with a single belief: that comfort and kindness could be crafted by hand. Our founder, Clara Whitmore, was a young textile designer living in London’s Mayfair district. Working among rolls of soft fabric and threads of gold, she began stitching her first plush companions—small gifts intended to bring a smile to the faces of her friends.

Word of Clara’s creations spread quickly through neighborhood markets and boutique shops. Her bears and bunnies were regarded as more than just toys; they were pieces of joy, made with meticulous care and meant to be cherished for a lifetime. Each design carried a story, a memory, and a touch of warmth that made them instantly recognizable.

A Global Journey

As the years progressed, Ashbury & Wren grew from a humble London workshop into a global studio of dreamers, artists, and storytellers. In the early 2000s, our designs found homes across Europe, Asia, and the Americas, uniting a worldwide community of collectors and gift-givers who shared a common love for softness, imagination, and connection.

Ashbury & Wren Today

Now based in San Jose, California, Ashbury & Wren continues Clara’s legacy while embracing the modern world. Our designers blend classic British craftsmanship with contemporary creativity, exploring new textures, colors, and characters that delight people of all ages. From charming woodland friends to whimsical characters and cozy companions, every creation begins with a story and ends with a smile.

We believe that what makes a plush truly special isn’t just its appearance, but the way it makes you feel. Whether it is comfort in your hands, laughter on your shelves, or a shared moment between loved ones, that is the magic we are here to create—one hug at a time.

Ashbury & Wren Founded in London. Flourishing in San Jose. Loved everywhere.