Hola! We are Cinthia and Carlos
Two college best friends who fell in love and discovered a shared passion for the artistry of shoemaking. Having each been born into generations of artisans, we have a deep appreciation for the people and skill behind handcrafted items.
After moving to Canada from Mexico in 2011, we knew it was our mission to bring the tradition of the Latin American artisan with us. And so, in the Spring of 2020 we brought this dream to life as founders of Harmonica and launched our first collection.
Timeline
1
2010-2011
We moved from Mexico to Canada. Our journey just began.
2
2018-2019
We traveled to Mexico and fell in love with the stories of the artisans and the idea of bringing these beautiful artisan shoes to Canada. We chose the name and registered the business, started to design shoes and work along the artisans to create our very first collection.
3
2020-2021
All the paperwork and necessary steps were completed. Our very first collection was ready and we picked our Launch date on Feb 21st, 2020. Little did we know that a pandemic was about to start.
OUR STORY
While launching in the midst of a pandemic was a bump in the road that we could have never anticipated, and required some creative pivots - we are so grateful to be doing what we love!
While launching in the midst of a pandemic was a bump in the road that we could have never anticipated, and required some creative pivots - we are so grateful to be doing what we love!
Our Story
Where we began
“At one time, I remember Papa Fernando taught me how to polish the jewelry. It was from that moment on that I recognized this beautiful heritage and felt a deep obligation to honour the work of the artisan”.
As a young girl Cinthia found her love of shoes while watching her grandfather handcraft them. It was in honour of the influence he had that we chose the name Harmonica.
“My grandfather always had a harmonica in his workshop and would play it for the grandchildren so there is a special piece of nostalgia in our name.”
Thank You!
For supporting us and the many artisans that make up the Harmonica family.
We hope you enjoy our shoes and accessories as much as we have enjoyed making them for you!
+ Cinthia & Carlos from Harmonica +