Hi! Good to see you here, and welcome!

I’m confident you’ll find something you love, in my quaint little boutique, filled with delightful finds from our corner of Rwanda! My husband and I had an absolute blast when we visited there in November 2022 for his birthday! Beautiful people, beautiful land!

We stayed in Kigali, Rwanda's largest city and capital. Rwanda is a landlocked country located in East-Central Africa. It is known as the "Land of a Thousand Hills" due to its scenic and hilly terrain. Kigali is the country's political, economic, and cultural hub.

'A little history about Rwanda. It gained independence from Belgium in 1962. The country experienced ethnic tensions and conflicts between the Hutu and Tutsi communities, culminating in the tragic Rwandan Genocide in 1994. The genocide resulted in the loss of hundreds of thousands of lives and had a profound impact on the country. Horrific! Since the genocide, Rwanda has made significant strides, and its history has shaped the resilience of its people and their commitment to building a more united and prosperous nation. Rwanda has a rich cultural heritage with traditions, music, dance, and art.

It's that art, the talented artisans, and the people in general, who showed us much love at every turn that helped lay the foundation for Purple Luci.  Moving through the engaging, energetic, and bustling markets in Kigali, I was like a kid in a candy store – mesmerized by so many things of beauty! I got caught up in the vibes of being beckoned by one artisan after another while laughing and talking with them. So much love and talent! After two days of intermittent shopping, my husband and I barely had enough space in our luggage, to fit the bounty of gifts we bought for ourselves and others. And once we returned home, between showing off and sharing our goods with those in awe, the idea for Purple Luci started taking shape.

I’ve always loved shopping, and especially for others. And occasionally throughout the years, people have encouraged me to become a personal shopper. Well, now that’s my reality - of sorts, with Purple Luci. You might call me a “curator.” Those who know me recognize my affinity for pretty things. And now I’ve “curated” some beautiful items mostly handmade, including traditional African earrings to traditional African print fabric, such as African wax print and kente. We just know you're going to love it all! 

Thanks for supporting this Black-owned, women-owned small business. As you peruse the site, you’ll notice - shall we say a “home-grown” feel. Except for the artisans “creating,” we took the pictures in Rwanda, and I snapped the pictures of the items, at our home. Don’t judge!

Now – back Rwanda! Please – do yourself a favor and visit Rwanda. Add it to your Bucket List. You won’t regret it! And why of course, we’re planning to return – and very soon! We'll meet you there! Thanks! #visitrwanda

Marqueeta Curtis-Haynes                                                                                                  Owner, Purple Luci