Calling our Brand "Kikariki"
"Kikariki" is a play on the founder Franziska Knaup's nickname, 'Kika.' In German, "kikeriki" is the rooster's call as he welcomes a bright new day full of fun, play and sunshine for all children.
Our Story
Founders Kika Knaup and Jemima Haines met through Centering, a program designed to provide support and emotional well-being to expectant mothers.
Through the ensuing rollercoaster of birth, maternity leave, and returning to work, before repeating the cycle all over again, they created a strong and lasting friendship. Kikariki was born on this deeply rooted connection between two mothers who wanted to see a change in the world of children’s products brought about by several realizations.
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Long lasting products
The constant replenishment of children’s closets as kids outgrow their clothes is an ongoing task in every parent’s life. Kika and Jemima asked themselves, what if some pieces could grow with our children instead?
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Fun designs for all the kids
Kika found herself wandering into the girl's section to find more colorful prints for her boys, while Jemima normalized pink in her son's inherited wardrobe from his sister. Where were the colorful unisex designs for all kids?
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A one-stop-gift-shop
Kika and Jemima were constantly searching or trying to recommend thoughtful and unique gift ideas for children. With busy lives, getting a complete unisex gift bundle was the solution everyone had been looking for!
Kika Knaup
Founder & Designer
Kika is originally from Germany, where she trained in the meticulous craft of creating wedding and evening wear. After moving to San Francisco, Kika continued her studies in Fashion Design at CCSF, where she won a full presidential scholarship to the Academy of Art. Here she continued in designing intricate knitwear. Kika's collections have been featured at the Senior Fashion Show and in Vogue Magazine.
Today Kika runs the entire business operations from her home studio in Noe Valley, San Francisco.
Jemima Haines
Founder & Strategist
Originally from England, Jemima spent her childhood in Europe and the UK. Jemima's passion for science and math led to a career in finance.
In 2013 Jemima moved to San Francisco, looking for adventure with her husband. Several years later, she met Kika while pregnant with her first child Josephine. Jemima's love of childrenswear and beautiful things, coupled with a desire to see Kika's unique talents put to work, led to the partnership that is now Kikariki.