älva for kids

When you think about your business, what are you most proud of?

I search the world over for objects and garments made in a sustainable way, that are practical and beautiful for babies, boys and girls up to 12 years old. We are an inclusive space, we cater to families of all colours and shapes.

What is the history of your commerce?

I opened in December 2006 offering brightly coloured clothes for children and babies. Little by little the catalogue of products has increased and so have the sizes as our customers got older. We have also increased the number of reusable products (cloth nappies, bottles and bottles made of steel or glass) and materials from organic or sustainable agriculture. With the arrival of the online shop we have customers as far away as Finland and New Zealand.

What is your professional experience?

I worked for a number of years in companies running courses abroad, sending students to other countries to learn English. And before that I lived in London for two years.

How has covid 19 affected your business?

The truth is that at first it was a shock to have to close from one day to the next. Malasaña is a wonderful neighbourhood with a lot of movement in the streets, many people from other neighbourhoods, other cities and other countries come here to enjoy its bars, restaurants and special shops like mine. All that disappeared overnight. During the confinement I kept the activity online and since it was safe we opened first by appointment and now with capacity control and health safety measures. The response from customers has been wonderful and has been instrumental in giving me the wings to return.

What services and products does your business provide?

At älva you can find clothes and accessories for babies, boys and girls from birth to 12 years. Small brands with sustainable production processes and ethical working conditions. Rubber or wooden toys and original soft toys, ergonomic baby carriers and backpacks (we also give training courses), parenting books and even a compact stroller.