Our History

Vellie Boutique: A Small Family with a Big Heart, Crafting Timeless South African Footwear
There’s something special about a well-worn pair of vellies—the soft leather moulding to your foot, the sturdy sole carrying stories of adventures past, and the unmistakable craftsmanship that speaks of heritage, resilience, and quality. These are the things that inspired Kobie Koen, a man who believed in hard work, good business, and, most importantly, family.

 

It all started with a bold decision and a maxed-out credit card.

Kobie had always been passionate about business—about creating opportunities, building something that lasts, and delivering products that people could trust. He believed that great businesses weren’t just about selling; they were about serving—offering quality, treating customers with care, and providing something that people could be proud to own.

So, when he and his son, Marno Koen, decided to start their own leather shoe business, they put everything on the line—literally. With limited resources but an unshakable belief in their vision, they maxed out Kobie’s credit card to get Vellie Boutique off the ground. It was a risk, but one they were willing to take to build something meaningful. They weren’t just launching a brand; they were investing in a dream—one stitched together with resilience, craftsmanship, and an unwavering commitment to customer service.

 

But behind every great venture, there’s an unsung hero. In this case, it was Marely Koen, the glue that held it all together, handling the administrative side of things with precision and care. While Kobie and Marno focused on perfecting their craft and growing their vision, Marely made sure the business had a strong foundation, ensuring that every order, every enquiry, and every customer was treated with the warmth and dedication that would become the brand’s signature.

 

From Humble Beginnings to a Growing Legacy
What started as a leap of faith and a maxed-out credit card has since expanded across South Africa, reaching new regions and new feet with every passing year. And while the heart of Vellie Boutique is still deeply rooted in South African soil, their reach now extends far beyond the borders. With a growing online store delivering worldwide, the company proves that handmade excellence and heartfelt service are values that transcend continents.

 

Despite their success, the Koens have never lost sight of what matters: quality, service, and family—both the one they were born into and the one they’ve built through their loyal customers. Each pair of vellies is a promise, stitched together with care and built to last, just like the traditions they stand for.

In a fast-paced world where trends come and go, Vellie Boutique remains timeless—a testament to the power of craftsmanship, a father's dream, and a family’s dedication to making something truly special. Because at the end of the day, it’s not just about shoes. It’s about the stories they carry and the people who wear them.

 

Vellie Boutique: Timeless Leather. Handmade with Heart.