Meet Our Makers

Julie Baby Punch Club began as a serendipitous collaboration between artist Andel Olivier and a team of incredibly skilled nannies. While Andel led the way in early designs, each team member now brings her unique creative flair to every custom cushion, transforming each piece into a true work of art. This talented collective earned top honours in an Acer competition, securing business training and laptops to empower their growing venture. Now six women strong, the team creates foolproof gifts and heartfelt artworks, bringing joy to homes while supplementing their income through this inspiring, community-focused endeavour.

Heartworks is where it all began for us at Big Little Store. This collaboration highlights the incredible talent of a community of skilled artisans, each one pouring magic into every stitch and seam. Their creations are not only exquisitely crafted but also deeply meaningful, showcasing the beauty of traditional craftsmanship while empowering women and preserving cultural heritage. By partnering with Heartworks, we bring their unique masterpieces to a global audience, sharing their artistry and supporting sustainable, community-driven practices.

Named after the West African water spirit, Mami Wata, meaning "Mama Water" or "Mother Ocean" in pidgin English, our collaboration draws on a powerful symbol of fertility, protection, and harmony with nature. Revered from Madagascar to Morocco, Mami Wata is seen as a guardian of women, children, and sea life, representing a profound connection to African waters and natural environments. This collaboration celebrates African heritage, honouring the spirit of Mami Wata by empowering artisans and preserving age-old traditions. By partnering with these makers, we channel this creative force to uplift communities, support sustainable practices, and share Africa's unique stories with the world.

More than just their beloved Boer soap, Antjie’s is a family-run business that began on a kitchen table in Cape Town. Founded by Nicolene Gericke, the company now employs ten local women in Stanford and collaborates with over fifty women across the Western Cape to craft beautiful, hand-crocheted wool and string items. Committed to job creation and community upliftment, Antjie’s supports artisans from smaller communities who bring each product to life through knitting, crocheting, and beading. They take pride in their craft, knowing that every piece helps empower talented women across the region.

Founded in 2011 by Chad and Erin Lee Petersen, Research Unit began as a journey to master quality accessory-making from scratch. With a passion for design but limited skills, they taught themselves through countless hours of research and YouTube tutorials, eventually perfecting their craft. Now, they share this expertise with community members, giving back by upskilling others. Their venture, initially funded by selling an iPhone 4, is a testament to their determination and belief that hard work makes dreams come true.