The Hold was founded by Rae Pooley, who grew up surrounded by creativity and the beauty of nature. From an early age, Rae developed a love for hunting one-of-a-kind treasures—a pursuit that infused each find with special memories. This passion for discovering the extraordinary is at the heart of The Hold.

With over a decade of experience in buying and design, Rae envisioned handbags that carry not just essentials, but stories—pieces that fit into someone else’s life journey. 

The Hold was born out of a desire to combat the waste and excess in the fashion industry, using traditional craftsmanship to create bags that honour both the maker and the wearer.

We believe that when something is made by hand, it imbues a sentimentality that is not only an ode to the artisan but also helps keep traditional craft alive. We honour the skills and craftsmanship of our makers and every set of hands our product passes through on its journey to us.

At The Hold, we are committed to reducing overproduction and celebrating the beauty of slow, mindful craftsmanship, ensuring every piece is made with intention and care. When you carry one of our handbags, it serves as a reminder to hold onto what matters most: your values, your voice, and the stories that shape you.