Prince of Scots: Interview with Company Co-Founder Tim Danser
The Highland Tweeds Wool Throws are the latest items in the roster of Prince of Scots, a 100% sustainable wool-goods company that creates popular throws which measure 59 x 80 inches and are suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. Founded in 2011 by Tim Danser, a former fashion buyer, and David Campana, an interior designer, Prince of Scots is known for their meticulous attention to detail. The brand is proud to work closely with skilled artisans and premium materials to create luxury items with lasting appeal and sophistication that blend traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design.
Tim Danser, Co-founder of Prince of Scots, recently discussed the brand via an exclusive interview.
Meagan Meehan (Q): How did you initially get interested in fashion and why did you decide to focus on wool products?
Tim Danser (TD): I am a former buyer of men’s tailored clothing for JCPenney and was Vice-President of US office of an Israeli clothing, my passion for fashion stems from this part of my career. As the industry shifted away from wearing suits, I worked with my wool suppliers to transition into home textiles. That’s when I discovered the versatility, sustainability, and beauty in wool!
Q: What prompted you to start your own company and how hard was it to establish and keep afloat?
TD: After living in Manhattan and working for corporate America for many years, I decided to move to the Hamptons for a more meaningful and grounded way of life. I was inspired by the ocean, small towns, and rolling vineyards to start my own business and brands. This is where the Southampton Home Brand was born. Starting a business and keeping it afloat is undeniably challenging. We have had our ups and downs. The lifestyle was self-funded and cash flow was an opportunity but with perseverance and hard work our dreams were realized.
Q: How did you find the artisans that you work with?
TD: They come from my industry connections and luminaires; we meet along the way. We began working with the Scottish Government to build trade relationships in the US. The talent in Scotland and England is very robust. Having the Her Majesty the Queen send us an invite to attend this trade mission was a highlight of the journey!
Q: Out of all your items, which are the most popular with consumers?
TD: We have two customer segments. One that buys barware and one that buys textiles. Our key retailers of both categories and both brands; Prince of Scots and Southampton Home.
· The BIG Throw is the most popular throw in Prince of Scots. It’s our largest throw and consumers love the comfort!
· The Brilliant and Kaleidoscope are the most popular in Southampton Home. Consumers love the color and softness of the merino wool.
· The Silver Mint Julep is the best-selling item in barware and is recognized as the best julep cup. The cups are popular during derby season and have been used by marquee events: The Kentucky Derby and The Breeders’ Cup.
Q: Be honest, do you have a favorite item?
TD: It has to be The BIG Throw! It is perfect for taking a nap, binge binge-watching TV, great as an extra blanket at the bottom of the bed. I love that it’s big enough for two to snuggle under, especially in front of a fire. It’s such a luxurious and romantic throw, we’re so proud of it.
Q: How did your background in fashion buying and interior design influence you as you dived into this field?
TD: It is just in my blood. Prince of Scots and Southampton Home collections are all inspired by how I live. These are items I have in my home and use when I entertain. From the colors of the throws to the luxury of the barware, this is how I live. It’s great to see that so many others connect to the brands and invite them into their homes.
Q: What has been some of the most memorable feedback that you’ve gotten about this brand and your products?
TD: We were in Las Vegas for a Trade Show in August 2021. The show was slow due to COVID. A new casino, Resorts World Las Vegas, has just opened with the theme of “Stay Fabulous”. As the show was slow, we decided to go see what fabulous was all about…trend watch so to speak. Much to our surprise, when we got to the resort, we found that our products were used in the marketing campaign. There were murals floor to ceiling, billboards, and advertisements everywhere about “Stay Fabulous”. What an honor to have our brand, products, and lifestyle inspire such a campaign.
Q: What would you say has been the highlight of your career so far?
TD: I have been fortunate to have a diverse career. Having worked in many major retailers, I take away highlights from every location. But the biggest highlight has been the success of our own brands and lifestyle. We Did it!
Q: How do you envision Prince of Scots evolving over the next five years?
TD: The brand continues to evolve. Affordable luxury has been our sweet spot. Our items are unique, trendsetting, and heirloom quality. We plan to expand on those successes and add the next generation of our lifestyle.
Q: What are your ultimate goals for the future and is there anything else that you would like to mention?
TD: We’re hard at work on continuing to expand our brands. We have an update on a brand to launch in 2025! Stay tuned to watch what happens!