Welcome
We are Kristle and Kimberly Jeffers. Trinidadian sisters residing in Barbados, together we manage and operate Handmade by Kae.
A little about us
We are a female-led Caribbean brand specializing in handcrafted, artisanal, all-natural body care and aromatherapy products. My sister Kimberly and I utilize the power of natural oils and butters to enhance skin health and beauty.
Our commitment is to the well-being of our clients and the planet. We use biodegradable or recyclable packaging to reflect this dedication.
Whenever possible, we opt for organic sourcing and prioritize local suppliers to minimize our carbon footprint.
Our products are cruelty-free, designed to be visually appealing, environmentally friendly, and highly effective.
Each product is made by hand with meticulous attention to detail and a focus on sustainability.
Like most small beauty businesses, we started making our soaps and lotions at home in my kitchen.
Our journey into soapmaking started as a solution to our severe dry skin issues. Kimberly began experimenting and self-taught the craft, later passing on her knowledge to Kristle, creating soaps rich in oils and butters that nourished rather than dried out their skin.
Subsequently, we branched out into lotions, body oils, candles, diffusers, gift boxes, and most recently, sugar scrubs and perfumes.
All our products are handcrafted in Barbados.
Our first sales were at the Brighton Farmers Market on Saturdays. This market introduced us to a community of customers who value high-quality, locally crafted products that they can trust and easily present as gifts to family, friends, and colleagues. These initial engagements have blossomed into ongoing wholesale and consignment partnerships that we've sustained over the years.
Strengthening our community
The local market's support has been incredible. We've managed to retail our products at various locations across the island, including the Crate, My Collection Barbados, Harrison's Cave, Walker's World, Butterfly Boutique, Ryan's Happy Place, and most recently, Ganzee. The collaboration with these partners, along with the assistance from the National Cultural Foundation, The Small Business Association of Barbados, Nudge Caribbean, and UN Women, has significantly contributed to our business's growth and success.
Our expansion has allowed us to collaborate with numerous local vendors who produce complementary accessories and containers for our products. Initially, we offered knitted washcloths and soap sacks, later introducing handmade wooden gift boxes, and we have now added a new item to our product range.
This item, a cosmetic pouch, is available for purchase either individually or with travel-sized products and is almost entirely produced in Barbados. The fabric's design was created by Trinidadian branding expert Tanya Marie, printed in Barbados by Aimee St. Hill, with tags supplied by a Barbadian provider, and the pouch itself was sewn by a local seamstress.
Additionally, we employ one person on a part-time basis and provide vacation employment opportunities to two students.
Frequently Asked Questions
Our company was established in January 2018 and we began sales to the public in March 2018.
Yes, my sister and I craft all our products in Barbados, except for our accessories, which are sourced from local and regional artisans.
Our products are primarily crafted using vegetable-based oils and butters. Additionally, we incorporate locally sourced goat's milk and honey in a select range of soaps, which is distinctly indicated on our labels.
We've created a section featuring our top-selling soaps, candles, lotions, and oils. Click here to explore!
Certainly, please email us (hello@handmadebykae.com) with details about your business, and we will send you our catalog that includes pricing and minimum order requirements.
Our website is designed to process orders efficiently and is regularly updated. Payments can be made through PayPal, or in person for local purchases.
Additionally, we have a store located upstairs at Gajah in Canewood.
You can also visit us at the Brighton Farmers Market every Saturday morning, from 6 am to 10 am.
Send an email to hello@handmadebykae.com. We can also be reached by Mobile or WhatsApp at 1 246 823 9123 or complete and submit the form below.
Want to know more about us?
Monday - Friday
10am - 5pm
Saturday
12pm - 5pm