1. Hand-Beaded Shoulder Bag in Guacamole Green: Embrace the essence of spring with our exquisite hand-beaded shoulder bag in a refreshing Guacamole Green hue. Handcrafted with intricate beadwork, this statement piece adds a touch of elegance to any outfit. Perfect for Easter brunches or garden parties, this bag is a must-have accessory for the season.
2. Pouch Bag with Wooden Handle: Elevate your ensemble with our chic pouch bag featuring a stylish wooden handle. Its compact size makes it ideal for carrying your essentials while on the go, and the wooden handle adds a natural, rustic touch to the overall design. Whether you're out shopping or attending Easter festivities, this pouch bag is both practical and fashionable.
3. Drink Bottle Tote with Pocket: Whether you're heading to a picnic in the park or spending the day at the beach, this drink bottle tote is the perfect accessory for your spring adventures.
Embrace the new season and enhance your spring wardrobe.
Happy shopping and Happy Easter!
What is behind the name Sarep + Rose? It is more than just a brand. It symbolizes the resilience of Women and the power of entrepreneurship to re-write legacies.
The story behind the name is as fascinating as the two generations of women it represents - Sareptha and Rose.
Understanding Sareptha
The story dates back to the 1940s, when Sareptha Johnson married an Austrian-American man working with the Firestone rubber company. Together they had three children and lived happily until his employment term was up. However, due to the US laws at the time, interracial marriages were outlawed. After Charles left Liberia, Sarep had more children and learned to provide for her family in the only way she knew how: by becoming an entrepreneur.
She made and sold dried fish, hot fufu & soup, fried donuts and more to government officials. Despite her immense hardships, she never turned down a child who was brought to her, offering them a space in her home and heart. Even after her own mother, Rose, passed away when she was a young child, she mothered somewhere around 25-30 people over her lifetime.
Through her wide social connections and relentless work ethic, she helped family members study abroad and her eldest son earned a PhD in Agriculture from Yale University- despite her not finishing formal education herself. She spoke multiple local dialects and was known to enjoy a glass of Gin (no tonic).
The Legacy of Sarep and Rose
Sarep + Rose is named after these two generations of women because their legacy deserves greater meaning than a motherhood cut short or marred by heartbreak and struggle. Sarep used whatever she could, with minimal formal education, to take care of all the children she had, biological or not.
Now, this company in one form or another, is what will take care of my future family one day, as it already does for the families of those involved in our production.
The Serendipitous Connection
About a year after I started this company as ‘Sareptha Rose’, I found that the name Sareptha is a variation of the Hebrew name Sarepta, meaning silversmith, goldsmith or ‘makers’ shop. How serendipitous that this name signifies an occupation whose purpose is to craft something valuable and beautiful out of dust. This is exactly what we are trying to do here at Sarep + Rose, making much out of little, and continuing the legacy of these two incredible women.
Final Thoughts
In the Biblical Hebrew, ‘Zarephath’ signifies a place of refinement, smelting, purification with fire, and the extracting of precious metals by heat. Likewise, Sareptha's life story embodies the process of refinement and the creation of something precious out of adversity. Her legacy, as well as that of Rose, continues to inspire the brand Sarep + Rose, a symbol of resilience, craftsmanship, and enduring love.
Happy International Women’s Day 2024 and every day!
Here are our top picks from our collection that make for a truly beautiful Valentine's Day gifts:
Elevate her style with the timeless allure of our London Purse. The classic satchel is the ultimate statement piece that exudes sophistication.
With 7 card slots, 2 full-length pockets inside, and an expandable design, this wallet ensures that your loved one can carry their essentials with ease. Order our Wallet ‘S’ Clutch Bag now and let the journey of love begin!
The Cow Hair Tote is not just a bag; it's a bold statement. With one side covered in luxurious cow hair, it's designed to turn heads and spark conversations wherever you go.
The Heli Crosspack: Navy Baoule is a versatile choice that seamlessly transitions from fanny pack to crossbody. Its understated charm and quality craftsmanship make it a wardrobe staple.
The biggest handbag on the block, the Cara Tote effortlessly transitions from work to the gym and even the beach without missing a beat. No need to switch bags – it's the ultimate all-in-one solution for the on-the-go lifestyle.
🎁 Limited stock available! Order now to make this Valentine's Day truly special. 🎁
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What social impact has meant to me are very personal reasons that drove me to start this business. So, I can only explain how I got here and how I thought a business like Sarep + Rose could help turn the tables.
While I applaud and encourage others to make positive impact of any kind, let me be clear. I believe Sarep + Rose’s role is to take a ‘people first’ approach. Before you think I’m an environmental anarchist, let me explain.
Me on a work trip in college that would unknowingly change the way I viewed aid, trade, development and the world - forever.
It has been proven (and probably common knowledge) that people generally are able to take better care of their environment when their own basic needs are met. Put another way, the average person doesn’t have a reason to want to damage the environment, unless they feel they don’t have a viable choice.
For example, the women who make our round sisal baskets live in an area legally protected to preserve its biodiversity. However, deforestation and the consumption or sale of endangered animals is a common issue in key biodiversity areas across the globe. Well, not everyone wants to or is able to move to the nearest city (another problem to discuss another day) to find work, so how else can people make money but for what surrounds them?
So, the sisal is delivered in bales (part-financed by the basket sales) to the cooperatives in each area, and when each weaver is ready, she comes to ‘buying day’ with all the baskets she has made. They are categorized by size and purchased for the set price for that size. Now not only does she know she can have something to sell, she knows exactly how much she can earn (no regular price fluctuations like with everyday subsistence goods), control her own income and work schedule; earn independently ; and has no need to travel far and wide to find things that she hopes might sell for something.
There’s also a lot I have to say about how seeing so many talented people struggling to benefit from their talents is why I felt I had to start this business, but I’ll save that for another post too.
Thanks for reading!
Robin xxx
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Our Cara Tote will quickly become a part of your everyday wardrobe for a life lived on-the-go. This *extra large* tote handbag is beyond spacious for all of your things (and then some!). Whether you’re heading to work, a day out with friends, or a quick weekend getaway, this tote can accommodate *all* your belongings effortlessly.
Handcrafted in Kenya with sustainable sourced full-grain leather, this tote is not just a fashionable accessory but a statement of your commitment to eco-friendly choices.
Premium full-grain leather exudes elegance but also guarantees durability and longevity.
Rich, smooth texture of the leather adds a touch of sophistication to your look, making it a versatile accessory that complements any outfit, from casual to formal.
Zip top closure ensures your belongings stay secure and protected, giving you peace of mind on the go.
Two thick-cut leather straps provide a comfortable over-the-shoulder carrying experience, allowing you to wear it for extended periods without discomfort. The design is carefully thought out, ensuring that the bag distributes weight evenly across your shoulder, so you can carry your essentials with ease.
One of the key features of the Cara Tote Bag is its organizational capacity. Inside, you'll find various pockets that are perfect for separating big things from your small items, such as your phone, keys, or pens, neatly organized. No more rummaging around for your essentials; everything has its designated place in this thoughtfully designed tote.
This tote bag empowers local artisans in West and East Africa with it's traditional handwoven textile accent from the Ivory Coast.
Combined with byproduct leather, it promotes responsible consumption, making it a conscious choice for environmentally conscious individuals.
The Cara Tote Bag is more than just a fashion statement; it's a reliable companion that enhances your style while fulfilling all your everyday needs. With its spacious design, durable full-grain leather, and thoughtfully crafted features, staying organized and stylish has never been easier. Plus, with the added benefit of supporting sustainable fashion, you can feel good about your purchase.
So, whether you're heading to the office, the café, or a weekend adventure, let the Cara Bag be your go-to choice for style and function.
]]>Step into the world of island-inspired fashion with our soft gold Pouch Bag featuring a charming wooden handle. This exquisite accessory is not only a testament to elegance and style but also pays homage to the mesmerizing golden hour sunrise in Kenya. With its versatile design and captivating details, this bag is sure to become a favorite in your collection. Discover the beauty it brings to your summer wardrobe
Our Pouch Bag's soft gold hue captures the magical essence of the golden hour sunrise in Kenya. Imagine the sky painted with warm hues and gentle rays of light cascading over the landscape. This bag reflects that ethereal beauty, infusing your style with a touch of radiance. The soft gold color complements various outfits, making it a versatile accessory for both casual outings and special occasions.
The wooden handle of our Pouch Bag adds a natural and rustic touch to its design. Crafted with precision, the smooth and polished wood exudes an air of elegance. Not only is the wooden handle visually appealing, but it also provides a comfortable and secure grip. The integration of natural elements like wood into the bag's structure enhances its island-inspired aesthetic, creating a harmonious blend of nature and fashion.
The wooden handle of our Pouch Bag adds a natural and rustic touch to its design. Crafted with precision, the smooth and polished wood exudes an air of elegance. Not only is the wooden handle visually appealing, but it also provides a comfortable and secure grip. The integration of natural elements like wood into the bag's structure enhances its island-inspired aesthetic, creating a harmonious blend of nature and fashion.
Embrace the spirit of adventure and the beauty of nature as you adorn yourself with this island-inspired piece, and let the golden hour accompany you on your summer journeys. Check out the Pouch bag with wooden handle here.
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For those seeking a mini tote with a pop of color, the Sara Mini Tote Bag is an excellent choice. Available in an array of solid block colors, this handcrafted bag features subtle textures that mirror the captivating landscapes of the African continent. Made from luxurious full-grain leather, it exudes sophistication and charm. The detachable long, adjustable crossbody strap provides the convenience of hands-free carrying, making it an ideal companion for your summer adventures.
If you prefer a smaller tote bag that doesn't compromise on style, the Mini-Bella Bucket Bag is a perfect match. Crafted with cowhide and featuring a drawstring pull closure, this mini tote bag adds an unique touch to any outfit. The detachable crossbody strap offers versatility, allowing you to go from day to night effortlessly. From sunny outings to evening bonfires, the Mini-Bella Bucket Bag is the perfect tag-along accessory for any occasion.
Don't be fooled by its compact size—the Mini Scrunchie Bag is a testament to space optimization. Its textured full-grain leather exterior and thoughtfully designed interior make it an exceptional choice for summer. With a top handle and a detachable crossbody strap, it offers multiple carrying options. The block colors were inspired by the African continent's diverse landscapes, adding a touch of artistic beauty to this stylish accessory.
Experience the beauty of handwoven craftsmanship with the Emily Summer Tote. Structured and sophisticated, this tote features a detachable strap and an interior open pocket with a full brass zip top closure. The standout feature is the handwoven West African Baoulé fabric sourced from female entrepreneurs. By carrying the Emily Summer Tote, you not only make a fashion statement but also support empowerment and cultural preservation.
As summer unfolds, choose a tote bag that effortlessly blends style and functionality. Whether you opt for the reinvented classic of the Robin Tote, the vibrant elegance of the Sara Mini Tote Bag, the petite charm of the Mini-Bella Bucket Bag, the surprising spaciousness of the Mini Scrunchie Bag, or the handwoven artistry of the Emily Summer Tote, these top five totes offer the perfect companion for your summer adventures. Embrace the season with confidence, knowing that you've found a bag that complements your summer style.
]]>Carry On Companion: Oakley Travel Bag
The Oakley Travel Bag is a classic leather duffel bag that exudes timeless style and practicality. Crafted with heavy-duty full grain leather and a canvas lined interior, this weekender bag is built to withstand the elements. Its brass top zipper ensures easy access, and the roomy interior provides ample space for clothing and travel essentials. Whether your dad is going on a weekend getaway or a business trip, this bag is a reliable companion.
Leather Wash and Toiletry Bag
For the dad who values organization and style, the leather wash and toiletry bag is a perfect gift. This versatile bag can be used to store toiletries or as a general pouch to keep miscellaneous items organized. Handmade with four interior padded pockets, it provides a secure place for small delicate items. The sleek side handle adds portability, making it an ideal choice for dads on the go.
If your dad enjoys writing, sketching, or jotting down his thoughts, a leather journal is an excellent choice. Our leather journals are the perfect travel buddies, featuring fifty unlined pages for unlimited creativity. Made with Kenyan leather and adorned with a flap-tie closure, these journals add a touch of elegance. Whether your dad uses them for personal reflection or artistic expression, these journals make for a thoughtful and timeless gift.
Hand Cut Leather Coasters
Add a touch of sophistication to your dad's living space with leather coasters. These coasters not only protect surfaces from unsightly water rings but also serve as stylish accessories. Made from durable and absorbent leather, they are available in various colors to suit any decor. Surprise your dad with these simple yet elegant coasters that will elevate his coffee table game.
Reusable Wine Tote
For the wine-loving dad who enjoys outdoor activities, our reusable wine tote is the perfect accessory. Designed to carry a single bottle of wine safely, this tote is a practical solution for boat trips, picnics, or any other occasion where fragile glass bottles might be a concern. It also complements any wine gift, making it a versatile and thoughtful present for Father's Day.
This Father's Day, celebrate the man in your life with a thoughtful gift.
Happy Father’s Day!
]]>At Sarep and Rose, we intertwine sustainability and style to create something truly remarkable. The Mini Scrunchie Bag is a prime example of this fusion, combining textured full grain leather, a versatile design, and a commitment to ethical fashion. Inspired by the diverse landscapes and captivating scenery of the African continent, this handcrafted accessory is a celebration of artistry, culture, and responsible sourcing.
The Mini Scrunchie Bag boasts textured full grain leather that not only captivates the eye but also entices the touch. The intricate grains and natural imperfections of the leather add character and depth to the bag, making each piece truly unique. As you run your fingers across its surface, you can feel the richness and quality that only full grain leather can provide. It's a tactile experience that elevates the bag to new heights of luxury.
Functionality meets fashion with the Mini Scrunchie Bag's thoughtful design. Featuring a sturdy top handle, it offers a classic and elegant carrying option. Whether you're attending a business meeting or enjoying a leisurely afternoon, the top handle adds a touch of sophistication to any ensemble. For a more hands-free approach, the bag also includes a detachable crossbody strap, allowing you to wear it comfortably across your body, keeping your essentials close at hand while providing an effortless, on-the-go style.
One of the most captivating aspects of the Mini Scrunchie Bag lies in its leather options, which mirror the breathtaking landscapes and vibrant scenery of the African continent. Each leather variant captures the essence of a specific region, bringing the spirit of Africa to life. From the warm hues inspired by the savannahs of Serengeti to the earthy tones reminiscent of the Sahara Desert, these options immerse you in the beauty of Africa while making a bold fashion statement.
The Mini Scrunchie Bag goes beyond its visual appeal and takes pride in its commitment to ethical fashion. The sustainable leather used in its creation is sourced from Kenyan cattle farmers. By choosing this bag, you contribute to sustainable practices. It's an opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of those involved in the creation process while embracing conscious consumerism.
The Mini Scrunchie Bag encapsulates the essence of African beauty, sustainability, and ethical fashion. With its textured full grain leather, versatile carrying options, and leather variants reflecting the landscapes of the African continent, this handcrafted accessory is a testament to artistry and responsible sourcing. By embracing the Mini Scrunchie Bag, you not only elevate your personal style but also support a movement that values the environment and the communities that bring these remarkable creations to life.
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One of the seeds that were sown (way back when I was still in undergrad on my law career track) that has bloomed into Sarep + Rose existing today. I saw a CNN Africa special about this particular way of ‘turning trash into cash’ and it forever stuck with me.
To me it was a fascinating example of how we create our own systems and industries in Africa based simply on ways of life that have long existed. What is already happening, largely borne out of more limited resources is lauded as an extra-ordinary effort of “sustainability” abroad.
To be honest for a moment, this is one of the reasons I find it challenging as an African founder to pigeon-hole my company as ‘sustainable’ in the way that the Global North generally understands it to be.
For example, it’s second-nature to many of us to buy dry peanuts, seasonings or oil in old water bottles and re-purposed plastic jars from Dakar, to Monrovia, Accra or Banjul.
To eat grilled corn or fried alloco out of a newspaper or banana leaf in central Abidjan.
Or how a company like J-Palm Liberia has mechanized and accelerated the production of one of our biggest crops in West Africa - Palm Kernels. Not only to create huge efficiencies for small farmers but also to create an additional use - Bath, Body and Hair collections, all from a natural byproduct of how we’ve been making food for ourselves all along.
I consider the very essence of a business in Africa that utilizes local talent and / or materials to be ‘sustainable’. Who would have known almost a decade later, I too would become part of turning the Fish Skin ‘trash into cash’ for Kenyan fishermen. (NOT me!)
Our Maral ‘Fish Skin’ Daily Tote is this Month’s Bag of the Month. Make sure you check it out (and perhaps get a matching pair of Fish Skin sandals if you can!) and have a feel for yourself of what it’s like to have ‘turned trash into cash’ for some of the most creative communities on earth!
- Robin Sirleaf, Founder, Sarep + Rose
]]>The Maral Daily Tote has a classic silhouette that can easily be styled for any occasion. Here are some ways to style it:
We cannot wait for you to have your own Maral Daily Tote Bag. In honor of Mother’s Day, we’ve given you $50 off this leather tote bag all May long. Order yours today here.
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Elevate your warm-weather look with the yellow leather and vibrant green handwoven fabric. No matter if you are going out to countryside wine tastings or down busy city street strolls— the Emily Summer Tote is the perfect size companion. Featuring a long, adjustable crossbody strap, you’re able to carry it wherever the day takes you next.
The Emily Summer tote is perfect for any tropical vacation or trip to the shore. Equipped with a detachable strap and an interior open pocket with a full brass zip closure, this bag has the versatility, brightness and security ideal for all your sunshine days ahead. A solid leather back is the perfect canvas showcasing handwoven Baoulé fabric sourced from female entrepreneurs in the Ivory Coast.
Make the Emily Summer Tote your go-to statement purse this season, celebrate with $50 off here.
]]>Our Kenya Tote was one of our first all full-grain leather bags at Sarep + Rose. We realized that some of you preferred a more muted, classic choice for your everyday, everywhere bag - so we skipped integrating the handwoven traditional fabrics on this design and launched this clean-cut Tote bag.
Fun fact: Maybe we should be embarrassed to say it now, but we had actually discontinued the Kenya tote back in 2021, until one day, we began receiving a deluge of messages asking us to bring back this tote handbag. As it happens, someone who purchased it back in 2020 happened to have a YouTube channel where she made a video on Black Owned Handbags - featuring our Kenya Tote Handbag in Smoky Gray!
This leather tote bag holds all the things you could need throughout the day. This large tote bag’s interior is beautifully lined with cotton canvas and handcrafted with two thick layers of leather stitched together to create the sturdiest straps for your shoulder. It has a tough brass zipper that protects your goods even if it falls or simply from the elements. It measures approximately 16.5 by 17 inches with a generous depth of 5 inches at the base. So whether you’re carrying the largest laptop on the market (The MacBook 17” which measures only 15.47”) or a mini tablet, you can ALSO zip close your makeup bag, a pair of sneakers, water bottle, lunch tote, a book or two, plus all the little loose things swimming in our handbags. We received a lot of feedback from those of you with more petite frames that you wanted smaller tote bags for smaller bodies, so we launched the Slender Kenya Tote for when you prefer to travel a little lighter - so we have a work tote handbag choice for every type of commuter. It’s 13 inches wide by 15 inches high, so can fit any tablet and any laptop sized 15 inches and smaller. With a 4.5 inch depth, (only 0.5” difference) you still have a pretty generous capacity in both the original vs the slender Kenya Tote.
Our leather is durable, water-resistant and it’s patina that will develop with use over time makes it more and more resistant to scuffs or scratches - making this the perfect bag to commute to work with, play with and throw a few groceries into on your way home.
The Kenya Tote is an easy way to elevate your wardrobe this Spring. The Cinnamon and Smoky Gray leathers mirrors earthy tones that literally match any coat or outfit, so say goodbye to stressing over changing your bag and all it’s bits and pieces because you changed your clothes (which we do like… everyday right?)
Having our Kenya Tote as the bag of the month, during Women’s History Month was no accident. Thanks to you, we can undoubtedly say that it’s one of the best work bags for Women. We are spending this month honoring all of the strong women in our lives. We could never have this business without all of you. Our sisters, cousins, friends, entrepreneurs, and partners. We are inspired daily by all of you, and for this we are giving $50 off each Kenya Tote this month along with a free Kenya Wallet (add to cart to receive one).
Cheers to all the ladies, you make us proud, and we honor you all daily. Happy Women’s History Month!
Love, the team at Sarep + Rose.
To toast a cheers to Black History Month 2023, I’d love to share with you just a few of our favorite Black (and nearly all Women)-Owned businesses.
I hope you enjoy shopping and following these brands all-year round!
Robin xx
Solid block colors inspired by all corners of the African continent. In honor of Valentine’s Day and the season of love, let’s dig into the 14 reasons we love our Sara tote...
Our Sara Mini Tote Bag was designed with color blocking fashion in mind. The Orange, Red, and Indigo mini leather totes are a perfect ‘pop’ of a statement piece against a muted or even a color blocked ensemble, whereas the Black, Ombre Croc, and Deep Purple easily complements pattern or printed layers in your outfit
The Sara Mini tote is small but surprisingly spacious.You’ll be shocked about how many things you can fit in this little leather bag
Both the black and deep purple block colors take inspiration from the African savanna elephant. A print intended to be reminiscent of the texture of the Elephant’s skin is hand pressed into full-grain sustainable cattle leather. Did you know, in the mid-1990s the Kenya Wildlife Service launched a ‘Park Beyond Parks’ program to increase local community engagement in protecting wildlife in the country. There has been a steady increase in the African Savannah Elephant since this program was introduced
The red and orange mini leather tote bags were inspired by those evening sunsets throughout the continent. These bright colors especially bring us joy. (Fun fact, the orange is our founder’s favorite, learn more about her here.
Our Croc bag pattern colors are the Ombré Brown and Indigo mini tote bags. Africa has a large Nile crocodile population – they call nearly half of the countries in Africa home – so, similar to the Elephant texture the Crocodile texture was hand pressed into our full-grain sustainable cattle leather.
This mini tote can be carried by the handles or on your body with the adjustable strap. Hands-free whenever you need.
The zip top closure keeps your essentials snug and safe in your purse for wherever the day takes you. The Sara Mini Top Zip Closure tote bag is perfect for brunch, everyday use, or traveling!
Spring 2023 is all about quiet luxury pieces and Sarep + Rose has you covered. The Sara Mini Tote is a handsewn leather purse that is practical for all of your outings this spring.
Every Sara Mini Tote has a 1 card slot perfect for easy access to your debit card and license when you are at the wineries this spring!
The Sara Mini Tote has a soft structured bottom so it will not topple over when placed on the table!
All of our leather is purchased from local tanneries in the region. Farmers were burying the hides as a means of disposal because they had no use for them. Sarep + Rose buying these hides for leather is creating additional stream of income for people who rely on the cattle-herding economy.
This purse was hand cut and sewn in Kenya. Check out some more #BTS on our Instagram.
A traditional Tote Bag shape in a portable size makes this bag an easy versatile gift for all ages and is simple enough to supplement a wide-range of personal styles.
Sarep + Rose is a Black-Owned, Female-Owned business with a very small team and big dreams. We truly appreciate every purchase and all of your support.
January
We began the year kicking off with Stitch Fix's inaugural Elevate program along with 5 other incredible brands–Diarra Blu, Marcus Alexander, Chloe Kristyn, Busayo and Kahmune.
March
By late spring as we prepared to launch two brand new major retailer partnerships, we had to make the very tough decision to close our retail store in Brooklyn, New York.
May
After completing the virtual class components of the deferred class of 2020 of the Macy's Workshop, we went live with some of our core classics on Macys.com for the month!
June
Then one day in June, we woke up to a flood of leather Kenya Tote bag orders , only to find out that a customer from the previous year happened to also be a natural hair YouTuber with over 1.2 million subscribers - and posted this video of her review of our now bestselling Kenya Tote!
July
By July, we finally found a new 'home' for our business and moved into our very first office and warehouse location. We were finally ready to grow our team again.
August and September
In August it was time to manage our biggest ever production run - quite a challenge for handmade handbags - especially when each stitching, zipper, strap and clasp needs to look as close as possible to mass-produced, machine-made pieces.
That alone is worth an entire blog post, so more on that experience later. Intense on all levels, further complicated by a global supply chain crisis - but we emerged victorious!
October
After a hectic few months of preparation - in the first week of October, our long-anticipated launch with Stitch Fix was finally live! See this really cool video we shot for the collection launch back in July.
December
Unfortunately, we've been in a dark haze since then, as a completely unexpected personal (and brand) tragedy hit. My hilarious, awkward, animal-sheltering and self-appointed diehard Sarep + Rose brand ambassador and country manager - my Father, was found deceased. Just a few hours after his custom habit of forwarding our email newsletter with his all of his networks.
2022 seems to have rolled around over my head to be honest, but I'm picking up the pieces, learning to stand tall again and working hard to bring you handbags, baskets and much more that you too, can rely on through all seasons of life.
In the words of the late James Sirleaf, "Cheers, Folks!"
- Robin xxx
]]>We’ve got some big news. Beginning June 7th, Sarep + Rose has joined The Goods by Pinterest, a collection of limited-edition products from your favorite brands all shoppable through Pinterest's new shopping platform.
A curation of small mission-focused brands you know and love, The Goods offers you the opportunity to shop exclusive products and collections you can't get anywhere else. For this partnership, we've created our Back Outside Bundle–the essentials you need to take on any adventure in style this Summer ahead.
Available now, experience the richness of truly African made goods by pairing any color of our Fish skin Leather Sandals with the everyday favorite, our Sadie Crosspack. Exclusively on Pinterest for a limited time.
Support our mission in driving meaningful impact within Pan African society through fair-trade work and sustainable production. Designed for comfort and functionality, crafted with sustainably sourced full-grain and fish skin leather, and from head to toe handmade by skilled artisans and fair-trade factories.
Our Back Outside Bundle is available only for a limited time, so shop the goods now before they're gone and receive $100 off.
We all know who we run to first when we’re in a jam. Forgot your mask? Didn’t pack a sweater or comfy shoes? Fell and tripped? Need wipes or tissues really quick? If anyone left the house fully equipped chances are its Mom, Grandma, Aunt, or your big sister. Whether it’s truly her bag or ‘everyone’s’ bag as well, we’ve got her covered.
Enter code 'MOM15' at checkout for 15% off across the store. Order by Friday April 30th to ensure delivery by Mother's Day using standard shipping.
]]>Photo credit: Unconventionalsouthernbelle
In the 1940s, Sarep married an Austrian-American man working with the Firestone rubber company. Together they had three children and lived happily until his employment term was up. Interracial marriages were still illegal in the US so he knew their lives would be in danger here. After Charlie (Charles) left Liberia, Sarep went on to have subsequent children of her own and had to provide for her family the only way she knew how; by becoming an entrepreneur. She made and sold dried fish, hot fufu & soup, fried donuts and such to government officials between various ministerial buildings. Despite her immense hardships, she never ever turned down a child who was brought to her from the countryside a space in her home and heart. Despite her own mother, Rose, passing away when she was a young child, she mothered somewhere around 25-30 people over her lifetime.
Through her wide social connections and relentless work ethic, she helped family members study abroad and one of her sons even earned a PhD in Agriculture from Yale. She spoke multiple local dialects and was known to enjoy a glass of Gin (no tonic). ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
I named this brand after these two generations of women because I wanted their legacy to be given greater meaning than a motherhood cut short or a motherhood marred by heartbreak and struggle. Sarep used whatever she could, with little formal education to take care of all of the children she had, biological or not. This company, Sarep + Rose is what will-in one form or another-take care of my future family one day, as it already does for many of the families involved in production with us.⠀⠀⠀⠀
About a year after I started this company as ‘Sareptha Rose’, I found that the name Sareptha is a variation of the Hebrew name Sarepta, meaning silversmith, goldsmith or ‘makers’ shop. How serendipitous that this name signifies an occupation whose purpose is to craft something valuable and beautiful out of dust. Now if making much out of little isn’t women’s biggest mark in the world, then I don’t know what is.
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Easily carry heavy loads with thick, sturdy leather handles. Warm up and soften any room with these hand-created patterns all the way from Ghana, West Africa.
- When we said we'd decorate the playroom, we didn't say it wouldn't match the rest of the house. Great for use in nurseries.
- Store blankets for cozy movie nights on the sofa or for chilly evening backyard soireés .
- Be Guest room ready and keep a set of extra beddings and pillows handy in this basket.
West African Mudcloth does not only hail from Mali. Popular in the region, this is an organically grown, hand-spun and hand-dyed black mudcloth textile from Guinea. Each piece is one-of-a-kind, produced by women in informal cooperatives alongside of other traditional styles of textile weaving and production.
This piece could be used as a rug, chair throw or simply hung as wall decoration. The simple black and white color palette is sure to complement any room. Must be cleaned on a delicate, very cold wash or dry clean.
Click here to shop our full At Home collection.
On Narratives
First of all I want to say a huge hello and thank you to all my new folks! How much I appreciate your follow, purchase, review or support cannot be simply quantified in a few slides. I’m really looking forward to you guys joining us on this journey of changing the narrative on African people and goods through design, quality and craftsmanship.
I started this business because as an African person, born in the United States and raised in Europe, for some reason, who I am, what I wear and what I do has been met with far more (repetitive) assumptions than my peers who don’t look like me. Based on their own perceptions, people have had no problem confining the meaning of ‘African’ to a few limited narratives. “That bag doesn’t even look African” is one of the repeated statements that I can credit to why Sarep + Rose exists today. Even for myself, it took years before I stopped and thought- “Do we make the same analysis for goods manufactured in the US? In Italy? In China? In Vietnam?” Look at the tags in your clothes, in your shoes, your sheets, your jewelry. Do we ever wonder whether the item ‘looks like’ something that could be made in that country?
I wondered about the harm this narrative causes. Its role in the larger narrative that African countries, people and things had to be centered around topics such as extreme poverty, civil unrest, continent-wide danger, ignorance and general strife. Qualities that nobody could value. Do we really believe that other continents or countries are the only places safer to travel to or that could be the origin of highly valued, well-made things- or is it that we let our narratives about people and places get in the way of finding out the truth?
Even in some of my own endeavours, I continue to learn to see beyond narratives. It takes insight, courage and sometimes experience- after all, we have all been conditioned to believe they are fact to some extent. But it doesn’t make the need to unlearn them any less critical.. How are we supposed to experience the beauty, the heartaches, the growth and potential- in all its imperfectly perfect splendor that this world has to offer- if we don’t make the conscious effort to look within and beyond our own narratives?
I am often asked whether I run a charitable organization as opposed to a for-profit business. Do I support an orphanage, provide clean water, etc.? I could, but you know what creates less orphans and more funds to build clean water pipes? Gainful employment. That’s what allows you to pay your water bills and support your children, right? Or is charity only for Africans? How many white countries have developed through charity? Why is there a focus on giving as a form of survival in black countries? I wonder if it’s because it feeds a cyclical narrative that Black people are less capable, less hardworking, productive and according to the structure of our global societies therefore they are ‘less valuable’?
American citizens in Flint have been forced to consume poisonous water for years. Millions of children are in state care, subjected to horrifying abuse and funneled to prisons before their brains have fully developed. So where is it more dangerous for a black baby to live? A north American country or an African (black) one? Can we say for sure? Is it really about the color of our skin, or is it really about the systems within the country we live in?
What I’ve been forced to learn about narratives is that people that look like me are burdened by many more persistent negative narratives than people who are lighter than me. The lighter the skin, the more freedom you’re afforded to write your own story. What’s more, is that you aren’t responsible for representing or being a spokesperson, for all the people that look like you. People from all backgrounds can be ‘good’ or, they can be ‘bad’. But how much of your assessment is based on this individual as opposed to what you think you’ve seen before? Better yet- how many ‘bad’ things have you seen before, from people that DO look and dress like you that you don’t pin onto your own son, mother, sibling, daughter, niece, cousin or nephew?
We’re not asking you to see us all as perfect, nice, shiny people. If it’s not too much to ask, we’re only asking you to see us as versions of you. Sure, you’ll never know all the things we keep with us and black out of our minds that help us continue on and navigate in our worlds. All of us have a right to deal with lifetimes of this baggage in our own ways. Honestly, I don’t know all the reasons why it took this particular video of George Floyd for so many of you to begin to see us in some form. Were the same history books, documentaries, movies, articles, etc. invisible until now? I know that after the horrific point blank range shooting of Alton Sterling, the live-streamed shooting of Philando Castile within 24 hours of each other in 2016, or when George Zimmerman - a civilian- walked free after murdering a teenage boy - who looked exactly like little Black boys that I love- walking home holding skittles, I cried. I cried and I had nightmares for days. Because all the books, movies and documentaries I have read or seen in my life about just some of the murders, arsons, rapes and beatings perpetrated against Black people in this country without fear of recourse, was not mere history after all. I cried because it knocked the air out of my lungs that my little cousins, nephews, father, uncles, nieces, look no different to these people whose faces were now plastered over the news. Why should we have to prove our humanity, multiplicity and achievements so that you can see us a little bit more like yourselves...and maybe chip away a little bit at your narratives of us? Painful scenes from movies such as ‘Detroit’ or ‘Mississippi Burning’ are not mere history after all. Think of all those cases where there are no cameras. My God.
I could have been Breonna Taylor, Atatiana Jefferson or any of the countless women who were carelessly murdered because their lives were seen as less valuable. Less worthy of an effort to double-check. Unworthy of the right to be scared, to protect ourselves in our own homes. The woman who admitted she lied about Emmett Till decades later lived her life freely for many years, as did the men who beat him to death. We know not all of any type of people are bad -we’ve always known that. But the point is- there is a pattern rooted in the way power has been structured since this country’s inception. Why should we be concerned with ‘putting ourselves in the shoes’ of police, when the whole point is that they are supposed to be significantly better than the rest of us? The entire premise of a Government creating a subset of people who essentially have a legal exception allowing them to kill in the name of “serving and protecting” is that these people are supposed to be equipped with significantly superior reasoning and tactical skills compared to the ‘rest of us’.
If justice means anything, shouldn’t this immensely powerful pedestal come with equal responsibility? If you are the CEO, do you get to pass the buck to your receptionist - or is your responsibility as CEO to handle the challenges that arise in exchange for the perks of being CEO? If life gave us and all of our predecessors no natural consequences for our actions, what would we do? Who would we be? The state of the justice system against minorities and especially Black people in America is precisely that, and has been since Europeans massacred indigenous people to form this country.
I’m going to try and not dwell on why now, why this, what will happen next. None of us are genies or have crystal balls. What I do know is that for several generations, there has not been such a seismic shift in the conversation or consciousness like this one. Good or bad, we needed something. Though this is nothing new to us and I try not to cringe or be confused by statements that start with ‘what is happening now’. We’ll tell you - It’s always been happening, it’s just now you’ve decided to see us. Let’s see where this next chapter takes us. Thank you for starting to open your eyes. Now, let’s go together.
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People often ask me what’s the meaning behind the name, Sarep + Rose. So I named this after my maternal grandmother, Sareptha. In the 1940s, Sarep married an Austrian-American man working with the Firestone rubber company. Together they had three children and lived happily until his employment term was up. Interracial marriages were still illegal in the US so he knew their lives would be in danger here.
After Charlie (Charles) left Liberia, Sarep went on to have subsequent children of her own and had to provide for her family the only way she knew how; by becoming an entrepreneur. She made and sold dried fish, hot fufu & soup, fried donuts and such to government officials between various ministerial buildings.
Despite her immense hardships, she never ever turned down a child who was brought to her from the countryside a space in her home and heart. Despite her own mother, Rose, passing away when she was a young child, she mothered somewhere around 25-30 people over her lifetime.
Through her wide social connections and relentless work ethic, she helped family members study abroad and one of her sons even earned a PhD in Agriculture from Yale. She spoke multiple local dialects and was known to enjoy a glass of Gin (no tonic). ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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I named this brand after these two generations of women because I wanted their legacy to be given greater meaning than a motherhood cut short or a motherhood marred by heartbreak and struggle. Sarep used whatever she could, with little formal education to take care of all of the children she had, biological or not. This company, Sarep + Rose is what will-in one form or another-take care of my future family one day, as it already does for many of the families involved in production with us.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
About a year after I started this company as ‘Sareptha Rose’, I found that the name Sareptha is a variation of the Hebrew name Sarepta, meaning silversmith, goldsmith or ‘makers’ shop. How serendipitous that this name signifies an occupation whose purpose is to craft something valuable and beautiful out of dust. Now if making much out of little isn’t women’s biggest mark in the world, then I don’t know what is.
With love,
Robin
Bifold Wallet, handmade in Liberia, West Africa.
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