Bede Aldridge grew up with a love for horses and riding, working odd jobs until he had enough saved to buy his first horse. This led him on to more opportunities, and over the coming years Bede gained experience with breaking in, track riding, dressage, polocrosse, and stock work.

 

Watching his father plait kangaroo belts first sparked Bede's interest in leather craft. Working with horses also gave Bede an understanding of how a well made saddle is an important element in the partnership between horse and rider. This gave him a desire to pursue the trade of a saddle maker and became one of the few apprentices in Australia, working under some highly renowned craftsmen in the industry.

 

Bede's dream was to master the trade of saddlery and then run his own business producing his own brand of saddles. In 2010 this became a reality when Bede, along with his wife Jemima, opened the doors to their current workshop in Dubbo, NSW with a focus on hand crafting high quality custom saddles and repair work. The first years of business gave Bede the opportunity to develop his personal, creative workmanship and it was only a matter of time before the saddlery work led on to Bede & Jemima designing a unique collection of leather goods based on timeless design and craftsmanship. This range includes belts, whips, briefcases, totes, bags, phone and iPad cases, book covers, and knife pouches.

 

Bede and Jemima love working with their own hands and bringing a fresh, creative approach to local business. Saddler & Co is the result of their dream to keep the old trade of saddlery alive. Customers are given a friendly welcome and the rare opportunity to see a craftsman at his work, discovering how traditional skills meet modern day needs.