From dream to
kawaii reality
How did it all start?
Kawaii Tomodachii (CUTE FRIENDS!) is a small business in the USA. Originally started by two best friends and former make-up artists, Emmi and Ashley! We began our journey in October, 2019 - we got our head start via Instagram (@kawaiitomodachii) and Etsy selling resin art and molds made from from 3D prints! We were tired of doing make-up because of how time-consuming it was to do all of that art just to wipe it away once the photoshoots and videos were over. We wanted to start a business that came from the heart, empowered our artistic abilities + your love of cute crafts - but most importantly: make things that make you smile! KT has come a long way since it's launch. Ashley branched off to run our sister shop (Kawaii Tomodachii Mo!) for a while, but later realized that while she adored the KT brand, she had other passions for the long-run. Emmi now manages the business solo and Ashley is still cheering her on. Their best friendship remains strong 'til this day!
Brand Aesthetic History:
In the beginning, Ashley was the first of the two to get a laser cutter and after a successful year or so of molds from 3D prints sales, Emmi hopped on board and also bought a laser cutter! The two passionately shared their laser cut projects and drawings that they would do for molds and even collaborated on launching the same range of freebie molds from both shops. Together, learning how to do things like holographic molds and more by means of trial and error (and lots of fun nights giggling!) After a few years of being a seasoned laser-cut blank maker, Emmi has now started a journey to expand by creating and designing goods such as accessories (and more) to open a mini store under the Kawaii Tomodachii brand.
In late August, 2021: Hurricane Ida paid Emmi and Ashley a detrimental visit. in the New Orleans, La area. Leaving behind massive storm damage to Emmi's home and lots of things to fix and deal with at Ashley's home. Emmi was forced to move her and her two children quickly out of New Orleans by whatever means necessary to get everyone back to normal life and the business back to normal functions. Kawaii Tomodachii was closed for at least a month or two. Finding another home to live in on such short notice while she was temporarily in Florida and many others affected by the storm attempting to relocate proved more than difficult. Emmi finally found a residence, but the catch was it was an hour away from Ashley. While this did not strain the friendship, it strained the productivity of being able to work on the business together and the amount of times they'd see each other. Determined to make it work, they carried on and re-opened shop as soon as possible. While the closure did temporarily affect the business, things started to go back to normal after a little time and love!
The Kawaii Tomodachii you know today has the same heart and values, but will always be forever upgrading and challenging itself to be cuter, bolder and bigger than we ever imagined. I do it not only for me or you, but for everyone!
Meet The
Owner
emmi elle
Hey there, cuties. I'm Emmi!
Everything here explodes with pastels and kawaii because I believe everyone deserves to find something to let their sparkle shine! ✨
I wear many hats: LLC owner, mold-maker and artist, social-media content maker, graphic and goods designer, packer/shipper/customer service agent - but above all: being a mom! This shop is my biggest passion. Every creation gets a sprinkle of my heart.
Here, expect kind customer care, honesty, and creations overflowing with love. I LOVE what I do and hope you adore my little kawaii world as much as I do!
