Born in Manila, Philippines, Carlyn Nuyda-Calloway was exposed to the arts at a very young age. Her greatest influence came from her parents. Her mother taught her about subtlety and paying close attention to the finest of details; while her father, a well-traveled businessman taught her the importance of learning about other cultures and backgrounds.
In 1997, while feverishly planning her own wedding, she came across many jaunts for a headpiece and wedding veil. She realized that she needed to create one of her own, if she were to fulfill a childhood dream of a bride walking down the aisle in an ensemble that was simply perfect!
Shortly thereafter, the first collection of handmade Thumbelina tiaras and veils was introduced. Born out of a love for all things beautifully crafted and handmade, her headpieces have been rated to be worth the attention of some notable clients in the entertainment industry, as well as leading bridal magazines. Her works have been featured in feature films and TV.
In 2003, Ms. Nuyda-Calloway gave birth to her first child. Another awakening inspired her to introduce a new baby product line. The first collection of Snuggle Sacks were introduced in 2004; and just like the headpieces, the baby carrier was born out of the designer's own personal need and deep appreciation for style, comfort and safety that she did not find commercially. Since then, many notable babies have been carried by their moms in Thumbelina Snuggle Sacks, and was rated as one of "The Best Baby Products for 2006" by Fit Pregnancy Magazine.
In 2005, the designer's quest for all things beautiful and elegant inspired her to expand her business to the bridal gowns collection. She began designing for friends and family, which rippled into a word-of-mouth business after garnering recognition for her acute attention to personal touch and delicate details. Her bridal collection embodies the company’s philosophy of elegant simplicity, heirloom quality, timeless designs and craftsmanship. Nestled in a quaint area of Sherman Oaks, CA is the flagship salon and showroom where one can take in the ambiance that evokes the old saying: "First comes love, then comes marriage, then comes the baby in the baby carriage..."
