Creative Conversation: Susie Mobley of SUSU Co.
I have a treat for you today!
I love stories of women who pivot, go after a dream and live their best lives.
We certainly can all be inspired by that!
Meet Susie Mobley, a nonprofit veteran, mother of four, and now founder of SUSU Co., a new lifestyle brand that pairs centuries-old Italian artistry with intentional Southern living. After raising a family and retiring from her nonprofit career, Susie gave herself permission to begin again—spending four months in Florence immersed in traditional craft. What she brought home wasn’t just jewelry and ceramics, but a new calling.
“I gave myself permission to pursue the life I’d always imagined,” says Mobley. “SUSU Co. is the result — a love letter to the artists, the city, and the courage it takes to begin again.”
Her newly launched brand features a curated selection of jewelry and home goods from Florence’s most celebrated artisans. Each piece honors heritage, beauty, and slow, intentional living—a perfect reflection of Susie’s own journey and a compelling candidate for your founder-focused features.
What made you want to start this business?
I’ve always been drawn to pieces with a story — things made by hand, meant to be used, loved, and passed down. When I moved to Italy for four months in 2023, I discovered an entire community of artisans whose work felt like the perfect bridge between my Southern roots and my life in Florence. SUSU Co. grew out of wanting to share those treasures with others — not just as beautiful objects, but as invitations to live with more color, joy, and meaning.
Why Italy?
Italy is where craftsmanship still feels sacred. I love that you can walk down a narrow street in Florence and find the same workshop that’s been there for generations, making pieces the same way their grandparents did — but with a modern twist. For me, it’s also deeply personal: when I came here, I was in the middle of a big life transition, and Italy taught me how to slow down, savor beauty, and create a home (and a life) with intention.
What inspires you creatively?
I’m inspired by the mix of history and everyday life — a centuries-old palazzo with laundry hanging out the window, a table set with heirloom silver and a chipped ceramic bowl from the market. I love that tension between refinement and real life. That’s what I try to capture in SUSU Co. — pieces that are both elevated and approachable, things you can layer into your home and your wardrobe without waiting for a “special occasion.”
Favorite Florence spots? Restaurants, hidden gems?
It’s hard to choose just one — Florence is full of incredible places to discover! But here are a few of my personal favorites…of course these center around food.
Il Santino – My favorite wine bar in my favorite neighborhood, Oltrarno. It’s small and cozy inside, but perfect for an incredible aperitivo.
Tamero – Set on charming Piazza Santo Spirito, I go back again and again for the very best pizza in Florence. It hasn’t been discovered on TikTok, so you’ll miss the crowds!
@tamero_firenze
La Vecchia Bettola – Make a reservation! Incredible, authentic Italian. Don’t miss the “penne alla vecchia bettola” — it’s the kind of dish you dream about long after.
@alla_vecchia_bettola
Shopping in the Oltrarno – This neighborhood has some of the best shopping in the city. It’s the perfect place to escape the crowds and discover original, handmade goods from local artisans. Just stroll the narrow streets and pop into the little shops — you never know what treasures you’ll find.
Favorite Piece?
Handcrafted in Tuscany by ND Dolfi, these ceramic ring boxes feature a glossy pastel glaze — available in soft pink, sky blue, or white — topped with a striking, sculptural gold sphere. Equal parts playful and refined, they make the perfect home for a special ring, a tiny treasure, or simply a moment of Italian design on your dresser.
I am obsessed with this beautiful bracelet:
Lava Bark Bronze Bracelet
Designed by Paolo Miniati using the ancient lost-wax method, this sculptural bracelet feels both earthy and elegant. A wearable heirloom that tells a story. View the bracelet →
All my fave SUSU finds:
Have you checked out my ShopMy Storefront, My Weekly Wants and My Updated Shopbop Hearts?
Daily Desires:
(email subscribers open in a browser to view content)
Check out my Homeworthy Home Tour.
Let’s get friendly on Facebook, Pinterest, & Instagram.
Please feel free to contact The English Room if you are interested in our interior design services.
Disclosure: If you buy something through my links, I may earn an affiliate commission, at no cost to you. I only feature things I love here. Thanks for your support.
