About us

 

HELLO!

Hi, I’m Holly, founder of Sun People Co.

Our journey began with a vintage sun tent I found second-hand, a piece that instantly connected me to memories of beach days past. The bright, colorful umbrellas and shades that dotted beaches in the '50s and '60s inspired me to create something that would bring that same nostalgic feeling back to life. That’s how L’Ombra, our signature sun tent, came to be—an adaptation of that original find, designed to give modern families the perfect space to relax and shelter from the sun.

We believe in products that last, just like the ones from years ago. Our tents are made with 100% cotton canvas and trims, sustainably sourced wooden poles, metal pegs, and zero synthetic or plastic materials. Every detail is carefully chosen to ensure durability and environmental responsibility. We even worked with our manufacturer to minimize fabric waste by optimizing our patterns, making sure every cut counts. In 2024 we designed our Tutto Tote especially to use up our left over fabric we had printed for our sun tents.

Living in New Zealand, where the sun can be intense, we know the importance of seeking shade without compromising on style. Our L’Ombra sun tent is perfect for the beach, park, or backyard—a cozy nook for reading, relaxing, or simply enjoying a beautiful day outdoors. We’re proud of how our products offer not just shade but a little piece of privacy and comfort in the open air.

Our love for summer also ties back to our travels. We’ve spent many summers on the Italian coast, where the vibrant rows of striped sun shades create the ultimate atmosphere of relaxation. It’s where we embraced the joy of "un giorno al mare" (a day at the beach), always with a spritz in hand, and of course, "il dolce far niente"—the sweet pleasure of doing nothing. This connection to family, friends, and the simple pleasures of life has been a huge influence on the design of our products.

Designed in sunny Gisborne, New Zealand—the first city in the world to see the sun each day—Sun People Co. is all about creating memories and enjoying life under the sun.

Thank you for being part of our journey.

Holly
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