The Family Behind WoodenWares: Crafting Keys, Crafting Memories

At WoodenWares, we don’t just make Birthday Keys—we make memories. And behind every design, every order, and every detail is a family who pours their heart and craft into creating something unforgettable.

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Ken – The Designer & Founder

Just over 9 years ago, WoodenWares was born out of Ken Russell’s passion for combining Fine Art Joinery with modern technology. Ken has always believed in pushing the boundaries of design—blending traditional craftsmanship with advanced machines, inks, and materials. Every new key is an evolution of that dream: to create the ultimate Birthday Key that lasts a lifetime.

Ken is the one sketching ideas, refining details at 1am, and making sure each creation isn’t just beautiful, but also practical and strong enough to last for 50+ years.

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Monaliza – The Creative Spark

Where Ken envisions, Monaliza brings the magic to life. With her hands on the CNC machines, lasers, and materials, she ensures every design is cut, crafted, and finished with care. Her creativity also flows into the design process, helping customers’ cultural elements, patterns, and symbols find their perfect place on the key.

She’s also the steady energy in the workshop—the one who keeps production flowing smoothly while balancing the artistry WoodenWares is known for.

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Mariah – The Next Generation

Mariah, our Daughter brings the Gen Z vision to WoodenWares. From social media vibes to design insights, she keeps our brand modern and connected. She understands trends, what people want to see online, and how to translate WoodenWares’ legacy into content that resonates with the next generation of milestone celebrations. adds her creativity and perspective when needed, especially with graphics and customer interactions. She represents the family teamwork that WoodenWares thrives on—everyone pitching in to make sure no key leaves the workshop without perfection.

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Occy – The Bulldog Mascot 🐾

Every family has its character, and for us, it’s Occy, our French Bulldog. Always around the workshop, Occy adds joy (and plenty of distraction) to our days. Customers love seeing him pop up in our socials—because WoodenWares isn’t just about business, it’s about family life.

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Why Family Matters at WoodenWares

We’ve always believed that to create milestone pieces for families, we need to be a family business at heart. That’s why every key is made with the same care we’d give if it were for our own celebrations.

This family approach means:

• We treat customers like extended family.

• We value long-lasting quality over shortcuts.

• We make sure every detail—down to the last engraved pattern—is crafted with pride.

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The Journey Continues

From our small beginnings in Timaru, New Zealand, to shipping worldwide today, one thing hasn’t changed: WoodenWares is family-run, family-focused, and family-proud.

Every time we hit a milestone—like recently achieving 10,000 Birthday Keys—it’s not just our success. It’s the success of every family who trusted us with their memories.

Because at the end of the day, WoodenWares is more than just a brand. It’s us—our family, creating for yours.