I’m Amelia, the creator of At Home in Hawea. Every product we sell is lovingly made by me in my home-based studio. Each piece is handmade to order with fabrics carefully chosen and sewn on my beautiful vintage machine. Each item is one-of-a-kind and slow-made; nothing is mass-produced or replicated. At Home in Hawea began as an outlet for creative energy while I was on maternity leave after my second daughter was born. Thanks to the support of community and friends it has grown in the past two years from little projects made on my kitchen table into a recognizable local small business!
Our patterns are lovingly designed by me, and tested in the New Zealand sun and wind by my two adventurous daughters! My patterns have developed to meet the needs of our family, and I can confidently say that each design we sell is one that has been beloved by my own kids. The Winter Sunbonnet, for example came about because it was difficult to find a warm hat with a brim that would stay on a wiggling baby in a backpack – through naps and all! Comfort, practicality, and self-expression are the design values I hold dear as I make anything new, as I know that clothing is joyfully worn when the garments are comfortable and suit to the style of the wearer. My idea of success is in making a product that will be looked for every time you head outdoors, and which will be handed on with love when it is outgrown.
At Home in Hawea is my heart's project, and I currently juggle my love for this work with a busy family life as the mom of two small kids and a career. Much of my creative time is found after the kids go to sleep, or with my littlest napping in the backpack to be soothed by the gentle sounds of sewing. As your purchases are made to order, please be prepared to be patient with the process, and know that I will be working hard to make you something that you will love as quickly as I can. The launch of our website represents a huge step for At Home in Hawea, and I'm so grateful for your support!