Founder
My Buzz
Mella's Makings is a handmade fabric gifting business creating personalised keepsakes and gifts for the people, pets and moments that matter.
In a world where almost anything can be ordered in seconds, I believe gifting should still feel thoughtful, personal and deeply human. Every piece is designed and carefully sewn by me in my Lancashire home studio, with the time, care and individuality that mass production simply cannot offer.
My aim is to help people give something that says, "I know you. I see you. I chose this especially for you."
My Bio
I'm Anell, founder of Mella's Makings.
Originally from South Africa, I moved to the UK in 2001. After studying law in South Africa and working as a paralegal in London, I left my career when I became a mum.
I had always loved creating and adding handmade touches to gifts. After making hand-embroidered keepsake hearts for friends' new babies, their encouragement planted the idea that perhaps other people would value them too. In July 2013, with two young boys and a desire to create something of my own, Mella's Makings was born.
What began with baby keepsake hearts has grown into a handmade fabric gifting business celebrating new arrivals, birthdays, weddings, beloved pets, Christmas traditions and precious memories. I moved to Lancashire with my family in 2018, where I continue to design and make every piece from my much loved home sewing studio.
More than 13 years later, the heart of my business remains the same: creating meaningful keepsakes and gifts that make people feel truly known.
My Business Tips
Know why your business exists. Products and plans may change, but a clear purpose will guide the decisions you make.
Listen to your customers. Some of my best ideas have grown from people asking, "Could you make ... ?"
Don't undervalue the time, skill and care behind handmade work. Your price should reflect what it takes to create something properly.
Don't wait for everything to be perfect before you begin. Start, learn, adapt and keep moving forward.
Most importantly, keep showing up. Building a trusted business takes time, resilience and a great deal of belief in what you do.
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