Ina’s Story: Sunflowers, Family, and Honest Living

Growing Up in Pretoria

Ina grew up in Pretoria in a family of four children, the second last born. Early on she learned to share space, speak straight, and pull her weight — habits that shaped the way she lives and works today.

Ina & Frans: From Childhood Nuisance to Lifelong Partner

Both families were friends. As kids, Ina and Frans played together — same age, same circle. Frans was mischievous enough that Ina refused to play with him, and her mom once joked she’d never want a son that naughty. Years later, they met again at Frans’s aunt and uncle’s home. One look was enough — Frans fell in love immediately. It wasn’t long before they married and built a family with three children.

Building a Business: Lolla’s Paper Deli

In the early 2000s, Ina started Lolla’s Paper Deli, a stationery shop that grew into a successful business. She later sold it to pursue new interests, but the lesson stuck: start small, work hard, serve people well — results follow.

What Grounds Her: Nature, Faith, and Home

Ina loves sunflowers and traveling to places where nature is front and centre. Farms are a favourite — reminders of God’s power and grace. Chickens are her favourite farm animal; her kitchen carries a full chicken theme. It’s simple, warm, and honest — just like her approach to life.

Crafts, Music, and the Quiet Things

She spends time on crochet projects — blankets for loved ones — and fills her home with decoupage pieces she’s made herself. For calm, she turns to classical music: piano and violin, and the depth of choirs. No fuss. Just peace.

Values That Don’t Bend

• Someone else always carries a heavier load.
• Don’t panic about your problems — you’ll conquer them.
• Take it one step at a time; soon you’re on the mountain’s peak.

In Summary

Ina’s story is one of family, faith, and resilience. Growing up in Pretoria taught her loyalty and grit, which she carries into her life today. Her successful business, Lolla’s Paper Deli, demonstrates how hard work and vision can lead to lasting success. Ina’s love of nature and simplicity, along with her creativity and craftsmanship, reflect her gratitude and humility towards life and creation.

Why This Story Matters

Ina’s life is proof that steady values beat noise. Build well. Keep your word. Put family first. The rest follows. If you want to know more about the people and principles behind our work, start here: