Startup Story
Like any specialist craft that requires key skills, a fine eye for detail, and a wealth of creative talent, the art of crocheting demands all three, and Vivette Ayiaga, founder of Vee Crafts in Kenya, has them in abundance. She is passionate about craft and particularly crocheting, and has turned that passion into a business, whilst also continuing her studies in statistical economics at Masinde Muliro University-Kenya.
LoA found out more about Vivette Ayiaga’s personal journey as a creative entrepreneur and her ambitions for the future of her business.
What does your company do?
Vee Crafts stocks anything that can be made through crocheting. Our specialty is crochet accessories; earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and anklets. We make the products by hand using local materials. We also sell a range of crochet accessories to both retail and wholesale markets.
“The initial idea wasn't starting a company, but the feedback and the positive response towards my products really motivated me to do more.”
What inspired you to start your company?
The initial idea wasn't starting a company, but the feedback and the positive response towards my products really motivated me to do more. Being an economist, I also explored the Kenyan market and fashion industry, and found that this was an area that had not been fully exploited. It was exciting to bring something new into the market.
Why should anyone use your service or product?
My products are very special because they are not only made with love but with a passion. I am not driven by profit but by customer satisfaction. Each piece is made with enthusiasm and to perfection. My clients also have the privilege of designing their accessories in that I take their idea and turn it into something tangible and beautiful.
“Being an economist, I explored the Kenyan market and fashion industry, and found that this was an area that had not been fully exploited. It was exciting to bring something new into the market.”
Tell us a little about your team
I am the only team member, more like a one woman show. Being a small growing business, I aim at minimizing cost so I manage to do all the work myself. In the near future I hope to get more team players as the business grows.
Share a little about your entrepreneurial journey. And do you come from an entrepreneurial background?
I don't have an entrepreneurial background but I had always wanted to be an entrepreneur. I never thought I'd be starting a company relating to crafting since I only did it as a hobby.
What are your future plans and aspirations for your company?
In the near future I hope to take the fashion industry to a whole new level where handmade accessories and clothing are appreciated. At the moment I am based online but I plan on starting up a craft shop where I can showcase my products, teach, and sell the raw materials for any kind of art/craft.
“My products are very special because they are not only made with love but with a passion. I am not driven by profit but by customer satisfaction.”
What gives you the most satisfaction being an entrepreneur?
The most satisfaction comes from the way people embrace and love my products. A happy client is one of the most important things to me.
What's the biggest piece of advice you can give to other women looking to start-up?
If you have something in mind simply start it up, take the risk and try and even when things don't go as planned you will be satisfied knowing you tried. But also remember it could go amazingly well and you were just wasting time doubting yourself.
Contact or follow Vee Crafts
FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | EMAIL vivettedayoayiaga@gmail.com
Why LoA loves it…
There is always something special about seeing women turning their passion and talent for a particular craft into a successful business. Vivette Ayiaga is doing just that, giving customers the opportunity to own a unique piece of her crochet work in the form of an accessory. Her genuine passion and enthusiasm for the work she does attracts customers to her brand who want to own a unique accessory that has been made with love and attention to detail. We look forward to seeing this brand grow and thrive, finding new customers and fans from across the continent. — Melanie Hawken, founder & ceo, Lionesses of Africa