about us

The Story of little fish BOATEAK

little fish BOATEAK began humbly in a one-car garage with just $500 and a big idea. While working in interior design, I watched beautiful fabric sample books and rope trims get tossed aside once they were no longer needed. Instead of seeing waste, I saw possibility—and imagined a jewelry line built from these rich textiles and unexpected materials.

With no formal training in metalsmithing, I turned to YouTube to teach myself how to hammer and shape metal, experimenting until I developed a signature technique: carefully wiring fabric into sculptural forms, often shaped like sails catching the wind— homage to the water and coastal life that inspire everything I create.

The name little fish is deeply personal. I am constantly inspired by my “little fish,” my daughters Woodley and Willa, whose creativity, curiosity, and spirit are woven into every collection. With steady encouragement from my husband Bill, I continued to grow—expanding designs, refining collections, and trusting my instincts.

Today, every piece of little fish BOATEAK jewelry is designed and handmade in my home studio on Hilton Head Island, South Carolina. Each design reflects a love of texture, craftsmanship, and coastal living—thoughtfully created to be worn, lived in, and cherished.

We are a small, family-run team. I personally design and create each piece, while my husband helps with packaging and shipping. From time to time, I can even talk my girls into lending a hand, and my father still chips in with a bit of hammering now and then.

Please keep this in mind—we are not a large business. When you reach out, you are working directly with me, and every order is handled with care and intention.

Thank you for your continued support as I chase my creative dreams!

xo, lissy