Growing up in Germany, our founder, Stefan, was surrounded by craftsmanship. In the years following World War II, resourcefulness and skill were part of daily life, and nearly everyone knew someone who could make or repair things. This environment instilled in him a deep appreciation for quality and durability from an early age.

Stefan’s passion for craftsmanship was also deeply influenced by his grandmother, Gertrud. During the war, she endured unimaginable hardship, walking hundreds of miles on foot with her infant daughter, Stefan’s mother, to escape the devastation in Poland. Despite the odds, Gertrud’s skill as a seamstress and her resourcefulness allowed her to build a life, bartering handmade goods for survival until she was reunited with her husband. Her resilience and ability to create beauty from scraps became a cornerstone of the values she passed down to Stefan.

Trips to Italy with his parents further sparked Stefan’s love for leather goods. Visiting local artisans crafting custom leather jackets and boots revealed the artistry and timeless appeal of fine leather, leaving an indelible impression.

After moving to Western North Carolina, Stefan discovered the region’s rich tradition of craftsmanship, which reignited his passion. Formal training at the Chicago School of Shoemaking and Leather Arts refined those early inspirations into a skillful pursuit, culminating in the creation of timeless, handcrafted leather goods that honor tradition, resilience, and excellence.