The Story of Lili & Co Ceramics: Our Journey from Humble Beginnings to a Creative Hub

At Lili & Co, our story is one of growth, passion, and creativity. For more than 7 years, we’ve been proudly nestled in the heart of Kleinmond, a beautiful coastal town in South Africa. Our little shop has become a beloved part of the community, thanks to the unwavering support from both locals and holidaymakers.

From Humble Beginnings

Lili & Co began with a simple dream: to bring beautifully crafted, handmade ceramics to the world. It all started with one remarkable potter – Jeanette Kitchin – who, from her home studio, began creating unique, handcrafted pottery pieces that would eventually fill the shelves of our store. Jeanette’s creativity and dedication turned the humble beginnings of our ceramic journey into something extraordinary. From handmade mugs and intricately designed platters to sugar bowls and other functional yet artistic items, Jeanette’s creations filled a gap that no mass-produced factory item could ever achieve.

A Creative Community in Kleinmond

Though pottery has always been the heart of Lili & Co, we’ve been fortunate to work alongside talented local artisans who have contributed their works of art to our shop. From beautifully embroidered tea towels and handmade mirrors and frames to locally brewed teas and coffees, the spirit of Kleinmond’s community is woven into everything we offer. Our shelves are always full of uniquely crafted items, perfect for a gift or a personal treat.

We’re also lucky to be surrounded by nature’s beauty. Local flower farms supply us with fresh fynbos and proteas, which brighten the shop and decorate homes around Kleinmond. This connection to nature and the local community is part of what makes Lili & Co so special.

Kleinmond Coastal Life

Situated on Harbour Road, right by the coastline, Lili & Co has a front-row seat to the wonders of coastal life. Once known primarily for its fishing heritage, Kleinmond is a hub of activity, with whales frequently spotted in the bay and seals and penguins wandering the shores. It’s not uncommon for us to witness the gorgeous Clarence Drive Coastal Path stretching out in front of us, providing endless inspiration for those creatively inclined. As more people discover the magic of this small coastal town, Kleinmond’s charm continues to grow, attracting visitors from near and far.

A Growing Family and Evolving Studio

As Lili & Co continued to evolve, so did our pottery studio. Over the years, we’ve expanded our family of talented potters, training people of all ages and skill levels. The evolution of our designs, products, and techniques is a testament to the energy and innovation that goes into every piece we create. Our studio has become a place of constant learning, growth, and creativity.

Peppermint Pottery: A Space for Everyone

In recent years, we’ve welcomed a new partner into our studio: Peppermint Pottery. This open-access space allows anyone to paint, sculpt, or create pottery to their heart’s content. After finishing their creations, visitors can fire their pieces in our kilns, taking home their own masterpiece. We’re thrilled to offer this unique opportunity to share our love for pottery with the local community and visitors alike.

The Future of Lili & Co

The future of Lili & Co is something we can only imagine, as the path of creativity is always full of surprises. However, one thing is certain: we are blessed with a team of talented, passionate individuals who will continue to create beautiful pottery and provide a welcoming space for local crafters and artists. Our commitment to offering a space where visitors can paint pottery, experience the creative process, and enjoy the beauty of handmade ceramics will remain at the core of our mission.

As we move forward, we can’t wait to see how Lili & Co continues to grow and evolve, and we are excited to share our journey with all of you.

Thank you for being part of our story. Whether you’re near or far, we’re honored to have you as part of the Lili & Co family. We can’t wait to share more of our creations with you in the years to come