Minimoc is a local business that places the focus of sustainable, durable products on the little ones in our lives. Upon visiting the Minimoc website, photos of adorable babies and toddlers fill the screen, all donning the iconic Minimoc moccasins. Portobello West got the chance to interview Amanda, creator of Minimoc, and learn a little more about her awesome business.
After creating her first pair of baby moccasins out of some leftover leather in August 2013, Amanda posted a picture to Instagram of her creation and before she knew it the orders were rolling in. Within two weeks the website was created, and by October Minimoc was being sold at local markets. Between her and her husband Jeff, Minimoc has been a great “happy accident”. “We both love creating, I’m more crafty, and Jeff is computer savvy. We’ve tweaked the design a few times to make sure the moccasins have comfortable wiggle room in the toes, and don’t pull too tight around the ankle. A lot of long nights have gone into our current design and we’re happy to say we hear from parents all the time that the moccasins stay on and they’re children love them.” It’s clear that Amanda’s passions lie in creating great products for the little ones in our lives. “We get to use our best talents together as a team and that’s what makes Minimoc so much fun.”
Not only are Minimoc products absolutely adorable, they are also used from ethically sourced materials. “We’ve always called our mocs “A Happy Product”, and we do our best to make sure it remains that way, not just at the time of purchase but throughout production as well.” The soft-soled shoes are made from leather and cork, materials that are durable, comfortable, and ethical. “All of the leather used in our products is a byproduct of the food industry and come from tanneries where the workers are treated fairly. It is a common misconception that using cork is not environmentally friendly; the opposite is true. Cork is one of the most sustainable materials on earth and if it isn’t used, the rare ecosystem it is grown in will likely be used for land development and we could lose this great resource forever.”
Since starting Minimoc, the array of products has grown gradually. “Recently we added matching leather hair bows and bow-ties to compliment our mocs, and we’re not stopping there. We plan to grow naturally, and our goal right now is to have Minimoc in at least one retailer in every province of Canada.” The trend of sustainability is constantly growing not only in Vancouver but nationwide. By creating fresh, ethical products for infants and toddlers, new “steps” are being taken towards quality apparel for all by the smallest of feet.
As a couple that is very supportive of local business, Amanda and Jeff are eager to contribute to Vancouver’s local vendor scene. “Shopping local is something we value heavily, and so we will be at markets across BC throughout the summer. We have always enjoyed attending craft fair and farmers markets as customers, now that we get to be a part of them as a vendor is very exciting! We are looking forward to Portobello West and making connections with many other local artists and vendors.”
Written by: Kelli Klassen
VISIT the Minimoc WEBSITE: http://minimoc.ca/
LIKE Minimoc on FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/Minimocca
FOLLOW Minimoc on INSTAGRAM: http://instagram.com/minimoc