Today we’d like to introduce you to Stephanie Lilley.
Stephanie, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
The inspiration for the company emerged from a meaningful gift—I received a stunning handmade basket from my dear friend, Guadalupe Lopez, who sought to share her heritage. Everywhere I carried the bag people complimented its style and functionality. Fellow market shoppers admired its happy colors and grocers noticed its durability and how it stands upright when filling it.
When I heard that many El Salvadorans needed work, I thought that even though I couldn’t solve the entire country’s employment issues, I could put money in someone’s pocket by buying a lot of bags then selling them in the US.
The Lilley Line has grown from reselling market bags at farmer’s markets to a national brand that is in over 300 boutiques and sells directly to consumers through a website. Our chic designs can be both playful and sophisticated.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Each week at The Lilley Line surprises me. Just when I think there is calm and everything is falling into place, BAM. The plastic wire machine breaks. There is no more dye for our most popular color. Our shipment is stuck in US Customs. The challenges are endless,
But our team has a great sense of humor. So after we knock our heads against our desks, we just start laughing. Then we find a solution.
We’ve been impressed with The Lilley Line, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
We are humbled that a small gesture to help has turn into a larger movement that provides work to a growing number of artisans.
My first trip to El Salvador deepened my commitment to the mission. Meeting our first three weavers and seeing how grateful they were to have consistent work, strengthened my resolve to grow the business to empower more people.
Each product tells a story of heritage and craftsmanship, offering customers not just a functional accessory but also a connection to the communities and traditions behind it.
The Lilley Line baskets are extremely durable. Crafted with a plastic wire similar to the one used in weed whackers, they will never break — no matter how heavy your load. Ingeniously, the handles are woven into and are a part of the body of the bag so you can carry even the heaviest loads. Their durability also makes them sustainable: they never require replacement.
The bag’s unique flat bottom ensures your load stays upright and makes it easier to pack whether you are going on a boat or picnic, to a beach, carrying flowers, gardening tools, groceries or awkwardly shaped sports equipment. They’re waterproof, breathable, easy to clean, and last forever. Best of all, the color never fades! And there is a size for every use imaginable!
The original engineering of our bags makes them useable and durable. What sets The Lilley Line apart from the original market bag is that we have discerning quality control and a designer, Lalie Tongour, who creates colors combinations and patterns that make you smile when you use them. Whether you choose from our sophisticated natural tones or bright cheerful palettes, the colors provoke feelings of joy. Seeing colors that you like is similar to hearing your favorite song.
What matters most to you?
Growing our business so we can make a bigger difference. I didn’t expect that focussing on commerce actually helps more people than connecting emotionally with individuals. That is a nuanced and difficult thing to process, but my determination to help has driven me to find the most effective way to help. That has not been easy, but I am committed to making a difference in more and more lives.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://TheLilleyLine.com
- Instagram: @TheLIlleyLine
- LinkedIn: @TheLilleyLine
- Twitter: @TheLilleyLine
