There are moments in an entrepreneur’s journey that stop you in your tracks — moments where you look around and think, “How did I get here?” This past weekend was one of those moments for me. I had the incredible honor of being featured live on WGN Chicago, sharing the story of Petite Protea with the city I call home. I’m still pinching myself!
Twenty Years in the Making
When the host asked me to describe Petite Protea, I shared that this business is the culmination of two decades of passion — twenty years of working in either fashion or traveling the world. Those years gave me something priceless: a deep appreciation for the artisans behind the accessories, the women whose hands and hearts pour into every piece they create.
Today, Petite Protea is a Chicago-based boutique that curates luxury, ethically handmade jewelry, handbags, and accessories exclusively from women-led companies around the globe. Every purchase is more than a transaction — it’s a vote for a more equitable, beautiful world.
The Tag That Changes Everything
One of my favorite moments on air was talking about our Dinadi sweaters. The host noticed something she hadn’t seen before: each sweater carries a tag featuring a photo and the name of the woman who made it. That small detail tells you everything about what Petite Protea stands for.
These aren’t just beautiful pieces — they’re connections. When you wear a Dinadi sweater, you know the name of the woman whose hands brought it to life. That’s the kind of fashion I believe in.
Sopro Jewellery: Wearable Art with a Soul
I also had the joy of showcasing some of our best-selling pieces from the Sopro Jewellery collection — handmade by a sculptural artist turned jewelry maker. From delicate necklaces to bold statement rings, Sopro embodies what Petite Protea is all about: superior craftsmanship rooted in tradition, created by women for women.
And you truly don't want to miss their signature asymmetrical earrings. Differentiated stones set in 24K gold, each earring varying slightly from the other — it's that intentional imperfection that makes them so special. A reminder that beauty doesn't have to be perfectly symmetrical to be perfectly you.
The Protea Pouch: My Passion Project
And then there’s the piece closest to my heart: the Protea Pouch. This is my passion project, and getting to share its story on live television was deeply moving.
Each Protea Pouch is hand embroidered and sewn by Syrian refugee women living in Lebanon — a craft they have practiced and passed down for decades. The protea flower itself is a symbol of strength, courage, and transformation. It felt like the perfect symbolism for the women I partner with.
For every Protea Pouch purchased, I donate $10 to support girls’ education in Africa. Because I believe that when you invest in a girl’s education, you change not just her life — but the lives of everyone around her. Fashion can do that. We can do that together.
Thank You, Chicago
Being featured on WGN Chicago is something I will never forget. To every person who tuned in, shared the segment, or visited our site today — thank you from the bottom of my heart. You are why I do this work.
If this story resonated with you, I’d love for you to explore our collection at petiteprotea.com. And if you’re new here, use code WELCOME10 for 10% off your first order. Let’s make fashion meaningful — together.
