In 2020, as the world turned upside-down and we found ourselves confined to our homes and isolated, something magical happened: communities came together to support one another. In our small town of Plettenberg Bay, nestled in the Garden Route of South Africa, those who had lost their livelihoods found lifelines in a project we called The Big Green Tree.

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Pioneered by Elyse Harmony Rose and brought to life by Elyse, Philipp Hofer, Chi Chi Love, Deane Zambetti, baby Sage Love, and me, this project became a beacon of hope. The Big Green Tree was a seed that grew and flourished, creating a platform for artisans and craftspeople to trade their wares within our community. It held us together in love and hope, a testament to our resilience. When the storm passed, The Big Green Tree remained rooted, continuing to connect our community.

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As sparrows, Philipp, Sage, and I spent our lives in motion, following the sun and living diverse lives between South Africa and Switzerland. We have always endeavored to build a bridge between these worlds. In this spirit, in 2024, I felt a deep calling to embrace the archetype of the traveling storyteller and tradeswoman. I reached out to the branches of The Big Green Tree and beyond, driven by a heartfelt mission to empower our community even further. I stepped forward, investing in my friends and fellow craftsmen and women, creating a collection of products I loved and wanted to share across the long bridge to Switzerland.

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Thus, Magpie’s Perch was born, a true Southern African representative of the magical creations of our talented community members, sharing itself here in Switzerland and beyond. I am proud and honored to represent this collection of creations, knowing they will find their way to those destined for them. These lovingly handmade treasures, gathered from the Garden Route and surrounds, celebrate and promote our traditions and heritage as children of Mama Africa.

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May they be lovingly welcomed and received.

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— Ayla Love