Our Journey
WHERE IT ALL BEGAN:
A Foundation
GiftLady’s journey began back in 2002 when founder and CEO, Sanet Owen’s, world was turned upside down by the sudden passing of her beloved dad, Otto.
During this difficult time, Sanet was working abroad and struggled to find a personal way to comfort her mom back in South Africa.
Inspired by Otto, Sanet found a clear gap in the online market for meaningful gifting while being far away from loved ones.
While visiting South Africa, Sanet eagerly pitched her business idea to her mom, Minette. Despite being skeptical in the beginning, Minette soon jumped on board and became a pivotal part of laying down the foundation for one of South Africa’s most established online flower and gifting services.
Starting off as a small home-based business, Sanet and Minette built the foundation for what GiftLady is today. One personally wrapped parcel at a time.
Starting off as a small home-based business, Sanet and Minette built the foundation for what GiftLady is today. One personally wrapped parcel at a time.
HOW IT’S GOING:
21 Years Later: A Family Legacy
Back in 2003, unbeknownst to Sanet, a little bun was baking in her oven while building the GiftLady legacy. And in 2004, Sanet gave birth to her oldest daughter, Annabel.
Although a full-time student, Annabel follows in her mother’s footsteps, working at GiftLady as an operations and design junior during her off-time.
From one generation to another, the love language of gifting is truly evident.
As GiftLady grew, Sanet embarked on her journey of establishing PartyLady and BeautyBar, thus forming the Ladygroup.
Staying true to the emphasis on family, GiftLady welcomes Shanon, previously Sanet’s Au Pair, as manager. Shanon began her journey with GiftLady in 2018 as a student, and despite completing her honours in Industrial Psychology, simply fell in love with the business. From babysitting and part-time work to full-time manager, Shanon shares a strong passion for GiftLady and her success, closely forming part of the family.
GiftLady continues to grow from the loving and solid family foundation established those many years back, while keeping strong to her roots in Port Elizabeth/Gqeberha.
GOING FORWARD:
Happiness delivered nationwide!
We are proud to say that 21 years later, GiftLady ranks as one of South Africa’s most well-established, independent gifting companies, and online florists.
Throughout the years, we have been delivering gifts, flowers, and curated hampers, to not only private customers, but largely recognized corporate clients too. All beautifully hand wrapped, with a whole lot of love.
Our mission is to consistently provide customers with excellent customer service and outstanding product quality, while maintaining a personal touch. We aim to continuously spread love and happiness nationwide for many more years to come.
The GiftLady Team
FRONT ROW: ANNABEL OWEN, SANET OWEN, BIANCA SCHRADER
BACK ROW: STEPH BAARTMAN, SHANON SIMPSON, LISA BURGER, PEGGY QEQE, LOIS SCALLAN