The Why

  • More than a Gift

    LULA supports the work of a local skills training project, providing
    dignified income to local seamstresses who help make your products.

    Your order serves a greater purpose & reaches far wider than only the
    gift recipient.

  • Sustainably Local

    The packaging industry often overlooks natural fabrics in favour of cheaper
    single-use and non-recyclable alternatives.

    We think it's time to change that. We use repurposed and locally sourced
    supplies in an effort to help you keep your waste footprint low.

  • Small Business Support

    We believe supporting local means helping you with what you don't have time
    for.

    With no minimum quantities, years of practical sewing experience, creative
    problem solving skills and a willingness to try new things, we come alongside
    you & your businesses to design your new product or custom corporate gift
    idea.

The Who

Hi there, I'm Marla. Owner, Creative Designer, Production Supervisor,
Mompreneur, Communications officer, Markter, Shipping Consultant... and
whetever else is needed in this small business of mine. And I love everything
about it.

I love spending time at the beach, enjoying a proper cup of tea and you'll
find me gardening when I'm not at my desk.

Just like you, a busy mom & businessowner, I need simple solutions for
my life & business. I want to support the local economy & I want to do
my bit for the natural environment.

After seeing many a sport bag perish after only a short while, many single
use plastic bags floating in our beautiful ocean, I decided it was time to just
start do my bit to help locals to access low waste, multifunctional bags &
packaging from the truck loads of fabric off cuts being thrown out. Every
little bit makes a difference if we do it together.

Along with a small team of local ladies who help
me make these products, I love collaborating with you in making Low Waste &
Local an easy choice

The Story

Lula Handmade was born out of diverse past endeavors and a love of creating.
From trying my hand at making cards and simple gifts as a young farm girl, to
selling hand poured chocolates as a pre-teen, to facilitating art therapy
groups as Occupational Therapist and everything in between. Looking back, I've
been busy with either repurposing, a variety of handcrafts and empowering
others to do the same.

Lula handmade was relaunched from previous creative businesses just before
the Covid-19 pandemic, a narrowing of focus and the need for income generation
for my family. Let me tell you: teenagers eat a LOT, and ballet or hockey gear
does not come cheap!

While this in my business a Mom, Lula is really a family affair. We work
hard, we appreciate the simple things in life, we dislike unnecessary waste
intensely and we love our country.

I believe in attention to detail, fair wages and respectful & clear
communication.

Browse our collection or chat with us about
custom orders. Join us in reducing waste, one gift at a time.

Browse the Collection