Why Lula Exists

Life is full.

Between work, school runs, family responsibilities and trying to care for the people around us, it's often the little things that leave us feeling overwhelmed.

Searching for keys.

Packing sports bags.

Looking for chargers.

Trying to keep everything together.

I believe that when everything has a place, our minds have more space too.

That's why I created Lula Handmade.

Not simply to make beautiful fabric bags—but to help busy women create more calm, more order and more room for what matters most.

Meet Marla

I grew up on a tobacco farm where it was the norm to work hard, be creative and to make things for our home.

Long before I knew the words sustainability or slow living, I was learning to create with what we had. We repaired, repurposed and made things that were practical, beautiful and built to last.

Looking back, I realise Lula began long before I ever stitched my first bag.

Before starting Lula, I worked as a Mental Health Occupational Therapist.

Those years taught me something I'll never forget:

Our surroundings influence how we think, feel and function.

When life feels chaotic, even small changes in our environment can reduce stress and create a sense of calm.

That philosophy now shapes every Lula product I design.

Every Lula bag is designed with one purpose:

To help you spend less time searching for the things you need—and more time being present with the people you love.

Browse the Collection

What I believe

Over the years I've realised that the smallest things often make the biggest difference.

I believe...

  • Order creates peace.
  • Beautiful things should also be useful.
  • Sustainability starts with using what we already have.
  • Local businesses build stronger communities.
  • The products we use every day should make life simpler—not more complicated.

These beliefs shape every fabric I choose, every bag I design and every decision I make at Lula Handmade.

The Lula Way

  • CREATE CALM

    Life is busy.

    Our bags are designed to reduce everyday friction so you can spend less time searching and more time enjoying what matters most.

  • CREATE IMPACT

    Every purchase supports local women, skilled craftsmanship and stronger communities.


  • CHOOSE BETTER

    We believe in making fewer, better things.

    • Products that last.
    • Bags you'll reach for every day.
    • Simplicity over "fancy"

Thank you for supporting a small South African business that believes beautiful, practical bags can make everyday life feel just a little lighter.

When everything has its place, life feels simpler.