Colombian-born designer Paola Buendia and her husband, Mark Donovan, founded wooden ships in 1992. The couple met while studying at Harvard and founded the company within two years of graduation, spurred by a four-month trip to Bali. "I went traveling with the idea of 'seeing the world' and basically never left Indonesia,' says Paola. "Bali is the most incredible place - such a dynamic, creative place with the kindest people. We knew we wanted that to be a permanent part of our lives." Before founding wooden ships, Paola was aware of an opportunity in the women's accessories market. "I wanted accessories that fit my lifestyle - comfortable, casual, eclectic. In Bali, I was able to realize my ideas. Each piece we sell is so special and unique. Our hand knits and crochets have such detail - every item is truly a labor of love. We receive so many emails from consumers telling us about a favorite wooden ships piece they have loved almost to bits." Today, Paola and Mark - and sons Lucas, Julian and newborn Henry (5/21/08)- live in Bali where they design and manufacture their collection.

"Our brand has spread mostly through word of mouth," says Mark. "We have really grown tremendously since 1992 and are now sold nationwide, as well as in some international markets. We have recently been featured in In Style, Lucky, Glamour, Accessories Magazine, Teen, GL, Seventeen, Good Housekeeping, All You,
Country Home, Country Living, InFashion (Colombia) and Chatelain (Canada)." Retailers can view the line in person at the wooden ships showroom in New York City or at wholesale trade shows throughout the year.