Today we’d like to introduce you to Lindsay Strieker.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
Growing up in Nairobi, Kenya, my mom would make her own clothes and sew dresses for me. I was surrounded with handmade beautiful articles of clothing, jewelry, and blankets. This was instilled in me and came through in my own creations through my own line, Malaika, which is my middle name and the Swahili word for Angel.
When I first started my line of handbags, I hit the road with my collection and sought out my favorite boutiques around the U.S. I drove up the California coast, all through Texas and South Beach, Florida. I met face to face with wonderful buyers and landed some of my very best accounts, which include Barney’s Co-op, Fred Segal, Margaret O’Leary, and Curve.
My blankets have become a beloved gift for all and help people feel love and comfort in times of happiness and times of need. 🙂
Has it been a smooth road?
I have had an amazing journey, but sometimes I get the wind taken out of my sails… like anyone who is an artist and trying to make a living at it. My customers, friends, and family have always kept me going and remind me to never give up.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the Malaika story. Tell us more about the business.
I now specialize in Blankets made with fabrics from West and East Africa, mixed with the softest faux fur from Spain. This collaboration brings a beautiful mix of handwoven tribal prints with luxurious comfort. I have always collected Moroccan Wedding blankets from the Berbers in Morocco and adored their design and bits of sparkle, so I started making my own Malaika versions.
Our Moroccan blankets are washable and are softer to the touch. I have branched out to Floor Pillows as well, which are inspired from Moroccan poufs and meditation pillows. I love doing textiles now and to see my clients feeling the love that is put into them, makes my work a delight in every way!
How do you think the industry will change over the next decade?
I want to continue at a steady pace and branch out into working with more interior designers for big home projects and someday creating an entire lifestyle brand, along with planning adventures and experiences for people in my favorite haunts around the world!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.malaikadesigns.com
- Phone: 310-926-5064
- Email: pinktotem@me.com
- Instagram: @malaikadesigns
- Facebook: malaikadesigns
Image Credit:
Mars & Genesis Velarde
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