Meet Carlos and Lisa: The Passionate Founders of Tin Whimsy

Carlos and Lisa's lives have been deeply intertwined with the natural world, and this passion is evident in everything they do. Their long careers in wildlife conservation not only shaped their professional paths but also deeply influenced their personal lives and the creation of Tin Whimsy.

Lisa's Journey

Lisa spent over 25 years as a zookeeper at the Toronto Zoo, a career that allowed her to interact with a wide variety of animals. Her responsibilities ranged from caring for majestic gorillas to handling slithering pythons. One of her most profound experiences was helping to raise an infant gorilla when her mother was unable to produce milk. This task required not only expertise but also a great deal of compassion and dedication.

Lisa’s love for animals extended beyond her professional life. She has traveled extensively throughout South America and Africa, immersing herself in the natural beauty and wildlife of these regions. One of her most adventurous journeys involved exploring South and Central Africa in a truck with a small group of friends. They camped under the stars, experiencing the wild up close and personal. These travels not only enriched her life but also provided endless inspiration for the designs at Tin Whimsy.

Carlos' Adventures

Carlos, a wildlife biologist specializing in reptiles and amphibians, has had his fair share of adventures. His work took him to some of the most remote and biodiverse regions in the world, including the Amazon Basin, the rainforests of Central America, and Southeast Asia. Carlos' passion for reptiles and amphibians led him to many fascinating and sometimes perilous situations.

One particularly memorable and challenging experience occurred during a research trip in Peru. Carlos, along with a colleague and an inexperienced guide, found themselves hopelessly lost in the dense, flooded forests of the Amazon for 36 hours. Navigating through the wild in a dugout canoe, they were eventually found by local villagers. This ordeal underscored the importance of mosquito repellent and left Carlos with an unforgettable story of survival and resilience.

Wildlife Television Production

As their careers in wildlife conservation evolved, Carlos and Lisa were hired by a wildlife television production company. For five years, they worked on animal-related content for Discovery Channel and Animal Planet, contributing both behind the scenes and in front of the camera. Carlos, with his extensive field experience and engaging personality, became a recognizable figure on television, especially in the United States. This period allowed them to share their love for wildlife with a broader audience, further fueling their passion for conservation and education.

From Wildlife to Whimsy

After retiring nearly 10 years ago, Carlos and Lisa continued their love for travel and exploration, but this time with a new purpose. They began seeking unique, handcrafted goods for their store, Chaiya Home and Garden Decor. Their travels took them to various exotic locations where they discovered artisans and crafts that inspired them to create their own line of garden decor.

This journey eventually led to the creation of Tin Whimsy. Here, they could channel their creativity and appreciation for vibrant, colorful designs into products that bring joy to others. Their garden decor is not only beautiful but also functional, reflecting their practical approach to design.

Inspired Designs

The designs of Tin Whimsy’s unique metal art are a vibrant blend of the styles and patterns they encountered in Latin America and Asia, particularly Bali. These influences are evident in the bright colors and intricate details of our products. Each piece, whether a tea light holder or a mosquito coil holder, is crafted to bring a touch of whimsy and delight to any space.

Carlos and Lisa’s deep connection to nature and their extensive travels have profoundly influenced the heart and soul of Tin Whimsy. Their journey from wildlife conservation to art and decor is a testament to their enduring passion for the natural world and their desire to share its beauty with others. Through Tin Whimsy, they continue to bring the inspiration and vibrancy of their adventures into the homes and gardens of their customers, creating pieces that not only decorate but also tell a story.