A Story of Artistry, Authenticity, and Small Business Resilience
Discovering Purpose Through Design
Born and raised in Ontario, I have always believed that design is more than aesthetics—it's about purpose, community, and impact. After receiving my four year degree of illustration at Sheridan College in 2011, I began my career in logo development, illustration, and textile design. Over the years, my focus shifted to product development, specializing in soft goods and textiles for home décor. Teaching design to marketing & advertising students at Sheridan College further deepened my passion for creative problem-solving and mentoring the next generation of innovators.
Turning Adversity Into Ambition
My journey as a Canadian designer is rooted in resilience. Diagnosed with a neurological disability at 19, I discovered that design—and the ability to work remotely—offered a meaningful path forward. As my ability to manage my symptoms improved, so did my determination to launch my own small business. Inspired by my late father’s entrepreneurial spirit, I set out to create a brand that would fuse artistry with ethics and sustainability.
Why Turkish Towels?
In 2019, as I began researching the perfect product for my vision: something sustainably made, ethically produced, and built to last. Turkish towels, or peshtemals, crafted from 100% pure Turkish cotton, were the answer. Their construction, versatility, and beauty perfectly complemented my design sensibility. By partnering directly with expert manufacturers in Türkiye, these towels are made where the tradition began—honouring the original artisans and supporting sustainable local economies.
Ethically Made, Authentically Inspired
Every towel is sustainably produced using only the finest Turkish cotton, free from plastics and harmful chemicals. This commitment to sustainability goes beyond materials. Manufacturing in Türkiye, where the cotton is grown, reduces our environmental footprint and preserves the authenticity of the product. The workers are treated fairly in safe and supportive environment. Each design is a reflection of my illustration background, transforming everyday essentials into works of art.
Custom White Label & Promotional Merchandise for Resorts and Businesses
Recognizing a need for sustainable, bespoke promotional merchandise, I expanded into custom and white label Turkish towels for hotels, spas, resorts, and retailers across Canada. These timeless pieces allow companies to offer eco-conscious, luxurious souvenirs and gifts—replacing disposable plastic items with artisan-crafted textiles that guests will cherish. With a growing catalog of over 50 designs, my small business makes it easy for partners to select or customize towels that perfectly express their brand’s story. Custom Turkish towels are also popular promotional merchandise items.
Growing a Canadian Small Business with Integrity
From the challenges of the pandemic to rebuilding and relaunching at the RevolutionHER Summit in 2022, my journey as a Canadian designer and entrepreneur has been anything but conventional. Today, my ethically made Turkish towels are available in over 30 stores nationwide and through major retailers like Today’s Shopping Choice. I remain dedicated to the values that started it all: sustainable practices, ethical craftsmanship, and original Canadian design. As my business grows, so too will the impact!
Elevate Your Brand With Sustainable Luxury
If you’re searching for custom Turkish towels, white label products, or promotional merchandise that blends luxury, sustainability, and authentic Canadian design, discover the collection and join a growing movement towards mindful, meaningful goods.
Thank you for supporting my small Canadian business! Please comment under this post to support the visibility and reach of my work.
Kind regards, Nikky Starrett, Founder & Design of Pomp & Sass Turkish Towels