Welcome to The Happy Elephant
We're Alison and Mark, and we're excited to bring you beautiful, sustainable tagua jewellery that tells a story.
Having spent five years living in Ecuador, it's been a journey filled with wonder, discovery, and a deep appreciation for the natural world.
How It All Began
Our journey with tagua began in 2015 when we embarked on an adventure that would change our lives forever. We moved to Ecuador - where we spent five years - with our two teenage children, a decision that not only immersed us in a new culture but also led us to discover the amazing world of tagua jewellery.
During a trip to the vibrant town of Otavalo, some friends took us to the bustling indigenous market. It was there, amidst the colourful textiles and lively atmosphere, that I first laid eyes on tagua jewellery. I was captivated by its beauty—each piece was not only stunning but also made from a nut that remarkably resembled ivory. The combination of its natural origin, vibrant colors, and tactile texture left me in awe.
Meet the Founder
Hi, I'm Alison! Born and raised in Glasgow, I've always loved the natural world and connecting with people. Watch to hear our story, meet our talented Quichua artisans, and find out why we're called The Happy Elephant. It's a tale of unexpected discoveries, cross-cultural connections, and how a small idea grew into something very special.
Sharing Our Discovery
On visits back to the UK I would give tagua as gifts to friends and family. Their reactions were just as enthusiastic as mine, and it wasn't long before we realized that we had stumbled upon something truly special.
Little did we know that this chance encounter would eventually lead us to create The Happy Elephant in 2020.
From Novices to Entrepreneurs
On our return to the UK in 2020, we took a leap of faith and launched The Happy Elephant. We had no experience in selling jewellery, and at times, the challenges seemed overwhelming.
There were so many sleepless nights and moments of doubt. We almost backed out, wondering if we were in over our heads. But our vision kept us going. Our vision?
To create meaningful, eco-friendly jewellery that not only looks beautiful but also tells a story and makes a positive impact on all those involved in its production.
We learned as we went, making mistakes and celebrating small victories. Every piece we offer now is not just a testament to the beauty of nature and the skill of Ecuadorian artisans, but also to our journey of perseverance and discovery.
From Humble Beginnings
Our first market in Buckingham, England was a humble start! We borrowed tables and braved November weather without a gazebo, earning chuckles from fellow traders. Looking back, it's amusing to see how far we've come. Despite the challenges, we quickly discovered the popularity of tagua jewellery. It was a small beginning, but it marked the start of an incredible journey for The Happy Elephant.
Without your support, The Happy Elephant wouldn't be where it is today, so thank you for being part of our journey!
