Since 2019, I’ve watched our factory operations grow from one order a year to a nonstop production line with over 50 full-time team members, from a corner to half a floor to two full dedicated floors. Each time I visit, I see freshly remodeled spaces and brand new machines—but the same familiar faces.
We always start the visit by sharing a pot of tea.
It really takes a village to create just one bag. Each step is highly specialized, and over 100 individuals are involved end to end—each with a family to support, dreams to chase, and futures to build. My purpose is to give them a vehicle to get there, no matter how small. Because every single day, they choose to invest tirelessly in mine.
I remember wondering in 2019, “Does the world really need another handbag brand?” I made a vow: the only business I’d ever start had to uplift every person involved—and leave the world a little better than I found it. That’s not a goal I want to achieve, but the way I want to live during my time on this earth.
That vision is realized through our team, our dedicated community, and most of all, through the smiles and calm focus on the factory floor. A majority have been with us since we made our very first 300 pieces of the Linnea Tote over five years ago. Since then, we’ve nearly doubled their salaries. And during this trip, Mr. Zhong (the owner) and I explored exciting new ways to give back in more substantial ways—next year and beyond.
We make bags, but Freja is, and has always been, about the people. It’s the part of our brand I’m most proud of. To everyone who’s been a part of our story—these are the lives you’re impacting. It may seem small, but it’s meaningful.
Thank you endlessly for your trust and support.
xoxo, Jenny