From as early as she can remember, Merel was never without her imagination. Growing up in a large, artistic family in Amsterdam, creativity shaped her daily life. Her mother’s paintings filled their home, set within a household of sixteen people—children, grandchildren, and generations living together, surrounded by art, color, and creative expression.

As a child, Merel sewed clothes for her dolls and stuffed animals, transforming fabric scraps into tiny handcrafted masterpieces. Her world was defined by texture, color, and endless possibility—an early connection to craft that would later define her life’s work.

A Journey of Family and Craft

Merel’s childhood laid the foundation for her creative philosophy: freedom of expression, respect for handmade beauty, and the joy of making with intention. Her mother’s artistic influence was ever-present, teaching her that craftsmanship carries emotion, meaning, and story.

Over time, Merel realized that creating was more than a passion—it was her calling. Her path eventually led her to Ibiza, an island whose energy mirrored her inner world: vibrant, open, and unconfined. On the shores of Benirrás beach, she met Alok, and together they began a journey that would later give birth to World Family Ibiza.

Travel became a central source of inspiration. Merel and her family journeyed through Mexico, Morocco, India, and Thailand, collecting fabrics, embroideries, and artisanal stories from local makers and remote communities. These encounters shaped a deep respect for traditional craftsmanship and cultural heritage. Merel often emphasizes that behind every design lies not only visual beauty, but a profound respect for the hands and minds of the craftsperson who created it.

Building a Bohemian Kingdom

Back on Ibiza, Merel—together with Alok—started small, with a humble stall at the iconic Las Dalias market. There, they sold uniquely crafted gypsy bags made from the materials and treasures gathered during their travels. What began as a modest market project quickly captured attention.

People were drawn to the authenticity, the craftsmanship, and the spirit behind each piece. One one-of-a-kind bag sparked widespread interest, transforming a small creative venture into an international phenomenon.

Today, World Family Ibiza is much more than fashion—it is a creative universe. The family designs handcrafted shoes, accessories, interior pieces, and clothing, all rooted in artisanal traditions and bohemian aesthetics. Every piece is unique. Merel refuses to copy, believing that true design must come directly from the heart and imagination.

Family, Evolution & Legacy

World Family Ibiza is not only Merel’s dream—it is a family legacy. Her children play an essential role in the brand’s evolution. Two daughters lead key areas of the business: one guiding the creative vision, the other overseeing the business side, blending intuition and strategy.

Merel describes her design process as deeply intuitive. She does not follow fashion seasons or trends; instead, she creates in the moment, allowing inspiration to flow freely.

Working with family brings both joy and challenges, but for Merel, collaboration is rooted in love and mutual respect. While Alok manages operations and logistics, Merel remains focused on design. Their children contribute across design, operations, and sales, ensuring the brand continues to grow as a shared family endeavor.

Philosophy & Style

Merel’s philosophy is grounded in freedom—both in life and in style. She believes personal style should be fluid and expressive, shaped by emotion rather than rules. She encourages people to look in the mirror each day and explore color, shape, and mood to discover what truly resonates.

Her own style embraces contradiction. Known for colorful fringed skirts, Merel just as easily appears in ripped jeans and sneakers. For her, there is no single way to dress or live—style is fluid, and life is ever evolving.

The Bigger Picture

Under Merel’s guiding spirit, World Family Ibiza has grown into more than a brand. It is a philosophy, a family, and a global creative journey. From a crowded, art-filled home in Amsterdam to the markets of Mexico and India, and finally to building a bohemian world on Ibiza, Merel’s story reflects creative courage, family devotion, and deep respect for handcrafted tradition.

Her legacy lives on in every thread, every handcrafted bag, every soft cushion, and every bold garment—a celebration of craftsmanship, world cultures, and love.