Our Story

My story with The Gambia began over 20 years ago, when I first visited what would later become my second home. My husband and children are Gambian, making The Gambia not only a place close to my heart, but part of my family and everyday life.

I fell in love with the warmth of the people, the vibrant culture, colorful markets, and the incredible craftsmanship found throughout the country.

Smiling Coast Design was born from a desire to combine the beauty of African creativity with Scandinavian simplicity — creating unique, handmade pieces inspired by both worlds.

Each product is carefully handmade in The Gambia using beautiful African wax print fabrics and crafted by skilled local artisans, some working with traditional sewing techniques and mechanical machines without electricity. Every item tells a story of heritage, craftsmanship, and culture.

Our collections are inspired by places, memories, nature, and stories from The Gambia — from sunsets, rivers, and beaches to local traditions and wildlife. Because every item are handmade and one of a kind, no two pieces are exactly the same.

My vision is to share the beauty of vibrant African fabrics with the world while building something meaningful that can hopefully grow over time and contribute to creating more job opportunities in The Gambia. By supporting local craftsmanship, I hope to play a small part in empowering talented artisans and preserving traditional skills for future generations.

I hope to be a counterbalance to mass production. To create baby products
that you save for your children and that their children then inherit so 
that the story continues for generations.

By choosing Smiling Coast Design, you are not only buying something stylish and unique — you are also supporting talented Gambian artisans and celebrating authentic handmade craftsmanship.

Fashion for women and children inspired by African wax print mixed with Scandinavian simplicity. Handmade in The Gambia, based in Sweden, shipped worldwide.