I was born in Texas, but moved to Kuala Lumpur when I was two and subsequently spent my teen years in Hong Kong. Although I now live in the US, it was my years in Asia that really formed my design aestethic. I remember as a child staring at the Hong Kong skyscrapers and marveling at the bamboo scaffolding that clung to the buildings. I couldn't believe something so light could hold somebody hundreds of feet above ground!

I based my first collection around bamboo, creating a range of handcrafted eyewear that celebrated the material. To my surprise, the collection received rave reviews, was picked up by stores across the world and featured in magazines like Vogue, InStyle and
Elle. In that moment, KAYU (meaning "wood" in Malay) was born.

Our collection now includes a range of bags that again, is inspired by nature. This time straw and shell are intricately handcrafted by women's cooperatives in Asia to create a line of unique clutches.

With each collection, I strive to keep our core principles of craftmanship, ecology and ethics in mind. All our products are handmade and feature natural materials. In addition, we remain committed to bettering our community by sponsoring one sight-restoring surgery of every pair of glasses sold, and donating a backpack and school supplies for every clutch purchased.

Everything I do is inspired by the people I meet and the places I visit. KAYU was created as an expression of joy and gratefulness - for family, for love, for life, and I'm so happy to share this journey with you.

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