Smateria Turns 19: Bags With a Soul, Made by People With Heart

Nineteen years ago, Smateria was born from a simple but powerful idea: that creativity, responsibility and joy could coexist in everyday products.

From the beginning, Smateria founders Jennifer Morellato and Elisa Lion set out to do things differently. To transform unexpected materials into functional, colourful bags. To design with purpose. And above all, to build a brand that puts people first.

Recently, Smateria celebrated its nineteenth birthday, so we’re taking a moment to reflect - not just on how far they have come, but on the people who make Smateria what it is.

A journey shaped by women, creativity and courage

Over the past nineteen years, Smateria has grown into a women-owned and operated brand known for its originality, ethical production and unmistakable personality. Designed in Italy and ethically handcrafted in Cambodia, every bag carries a story of skill, care and collaboration.

At the heart of Smateria is our women-led workshop in Cambodia - a place of learning, stability and opportunity. Here, artisans build long-term skills, earn fair wages, and work in a supportive environment that allows them to care for their families and plan for the future.

This community is not a backdrop to our brand. It is the brand.

Standing together through challenging times

This year’s birthday arrives during a period of uncertainty for many in the region. Ongoing tensions and instability have had a real emotional and practical impact on our Cambodian team and their families.

While these challenges sit outside our control, what remains constant is the strength, professionalism and resilience of the Smateria team. Even in difficult moments, they continue to show up for one another - and for the work they do with such pride.

As a brand, we stand firmly beside them. Smateria has always been about more than bags. It’s about solidarity, dignity and being present for our community when it matters most.

Smateria works with individuals and organisations who share these values, including purpose-driven partners seeking ethical custom branding solutions that are practical, well-designed and genuinely meaningful.

Nineteen years - and still choosing purpose

Reaching nineteen years is not something we take lightly. It represents nearly two decades of choosing ethical production over shortcuts, people over profit, and creativity over conformity.

As we celebrate nineteen years of Smateria, we’re grateful to everyone who has supported our journey - by carrying one of our bags, sharing our story, or choosing to give a gift with soul.

Here’s to nineteen years of Smateria - and to everything still to come. 💛