Meet The Team
At Fairmont Reed, craftsmanship runs in the family. Founded by husband-and-wife team Ben and Jade Fordham, our Lincolnshire workshop is home to a close-knit group of skilled craftsmen and creatives who share a passion for exceptional design and timeless quality. Each piece is a collaboration — from design concepts and technical renderings to handcrafted manufacturing and personal client service — ensuring every table is Individually Crafted. Designed for Life.
Ben Fordham
Co‑Founder & Head of Manufacturing
Ben oversees the manufacturing process and brings each bespoke design to life. Having begun his career as a carpenter’s apprentice at just sixteen, he went on to work in shopfitting for many years before launching his own garden furniture business in 2011. Driven to create furniture that truly showcased his craftsmanship, Ben co‑founded Fairmont Reed in 2022 — where design, artistry and precision meet.
Outside of work, Ben enjoys mountain biking, travelling, the gym, and time with his wife, their two children, and two labradors.
Jade Fordham
Co‑Founder & Head of Marketing
Jade leads Fairmont Reed’s marketing and creative direction, curating the brand’s presence across social media and design platforms. Her background in sales began in the lighting industry at eighteen, where she developed strong client relationships across the UK and overseas. After starting a family, Jade and Ben launched their first business together in 2011, later evolving their vision into Fairmont Reed — a brand built on craftsmanship and individuality.
Outside of work, Jade loves spending time with her children and riding her horse, Duchess. She also enjoys travelling, reading and socialising with friends.
Catherine Whitehouse
Head of Sales
Catherine is the friendly face of Fairmont Reed, leading client communications and sales with warmth and professionalism. After an early career working with horses, she raised a family of four and later built extensive experience in estate agency and recruitment. She went on to volunteer with the ambulance service before making it her full‑time career for several years. That frontline experience has instilled a calm, caring approach that clients instantly trust. Catherine later left the service to join Fairmont Reed, where she brings that same dedication to every project.
When she’s not in the showroom, Catherine enjoys riding, spending time with her grandchildren, and cruising the world with her husband, David.
David Whitehouse
Head of IT & Creative Designer
David combines technical precision with creativity, managing everything from IT infrastructure to digital design and visualisation. Having worked for many years as a database manager, he brings a strong analytical background to his creative role. With experience as both a musician and music teacher, David adds artistic flair to his work — creating stunning renders and helping clients visualise their bespoke furniture designs. He joined the family business in 2012 and transitioned to Fairmont Reed in 2023, continuing to blend technology with craftsmanship.
Outside of work, David is a sound engineer and spends his weekends supporting live bands and events across the UK. He also enjoys travelling with Catherine.
Luke Shevlin
Skilled Carpenter
Luke works alongside Ben in the workshop, handcrafting each piece of furniture with care and precision. He began his career as a carpenter for a local company before joining a shopfitting team, managing numerous large-scale projects — including at Harrods in London. Luke joined the family business in 2021 and moved across to Fairmont Reed when it launched.
Outside of work, Luke enjoys fishing, playing pool and spending time with his partner and their two children.