Our Story
The story of MAHALA is the story of our family, and of all the friends we have made along the way. Each individual brought something to our lives, and by extension to our business. It is so beautiful to remember how it all started and how our shop evolved along the years, but even more so, we look forward to all the new connections we are yet to make, and that will shape us further.
2015
Emily creates MAHALA
She establishes the shop in Hackney and her first product is the handbag, that she designed and makes by hand from recycled materials.
She names the shop after her great-grandmother Ada-Mahala.
2017
Redwan joins Emily
Soon after meeting, Redwan and Emily become partners, in life and in business. Redwan adds a Sufi-inspired clothing collection to the MAHALA catalogue.
2020
A new shop in Crouch End
MAHALA moves to a larger shop in Crouch End. Emily and Redwan are able stock handcrafted Kilims from Turkey, Kanthan from India and unique pieces of furniture from antique fairs around the UK.
2022
Launch of our soaps and candles
Emily and Redwan created a line of plant-based toiletries. Soaps, shampoo, moisturising balm and even scented candles. It was a resounding success and many restaurants across London selected our products for their customer’s bathrooms.
Today
A haven for slow living
Emily and Redwan’s love for all things natural and handmade that will last a life time culminated in the current shop. From one-of-a-kind treasures in search for their next owner, collaborations with local makers who excel in their crafts, to making the same clothing collection since 2016 with handcrafted natural fabrics.
