Three freemen welcomed at summer ceremony

We were pleased to admit three new freemen to the Company at our summer admission ceremony on Monday 30 June 2025.

The new freemen were formally admitted to the Company at a ceremony held at Furniture Makers’ Hall in London.

Joe Bryan, owner of Halcyon Furniture, is a third-generation furniture maker and experienced upholsterer. With over 16 years of hands-on experience, Joe began his journey by helping his parents with furniture repair and sewing. He went on to work for Duresta Upholstery before moving into training roles at WEBS Furniture Training, where he passed on his skills to aspiring upholsterers and sewing machinists. Halcyon Furniture specialises in bespoke and recovered pieces, continuing a proud family tradition.

Ken Chapman, director of Chapman Brothers French Polishers, is an expert in the restoration of wood in both private and public buildings, including government offices, galleries, and Historic Royal Palaces. Ken joins his brother Richard as a freeman.

Emilia Marekwica, head of purchasing and sourcing at Ocee and Four Design, is one of our celebrated ‘60 for 60’ award winners. Since joining the company in 2014 as a purchasing administrator, Emilia has risen to a senior leadership role, helping to drive the sourcing and procurement strategies for this leading office furniture designer and manufacturer. She previously worked at Clipper Logistics and brings operational excellence to her current role.

The three freemen declared their support to the Company, before signing the declaration and being personally welcomed by Debbie Johnson, Master of The Furniture Makers’ Company. After the ceremony the new freemen joined other guests for our summer mixer event.

Debbie Johnson, Master of The Furniture Makers’ Company, said: “We are delighted to welcome Joe, Ken, and Emilia into our Company. Their diverse experience and dedication to the industry reflect the values we uphold, and we look forward to the expertise and passion they will contribute to our fellowship.”