About La Carla Masks

We at La Carla Atelier are an artistic family team who started this exciting venture after falling in love with romantic Venice. While roaming its alleys for gifts, Carla discovered a Venetian mask shop and was blown away by their beauty. The irresistible love began for these exceptional party masks. Back in South Africa, Carla started this venture along with her daughter Charnelle. We where both eager to switch on our inspiration.

This decision would change our lives completely. Since 2007 we have custom designed over 35,000 unique carnival masks, which are couriered all over the world. And that has become our only obstacle – the inefficient and expensive international shipping from and to South Africa.

That is why we now opened a second studio, in Spain. Charnelle had often been the Head of Service on several luxury yachts and knows how to offer first class service. She uses a translation app and does not find foreign languages an impediment.

Meanwhile we her parents (Carla and Neels Engelbrecht) happily continue to live and work in South Africa, on the Garden Route near Plettenberg Bay, where our studio is open to visitors.

We could not have asked for a better working relationship between mother and daughter, our connection through art is phenomenal. We are very creative and find our inspiration not only in our relationship but also when travelling around the world whenever we have the opportunity. In the end everything comes together in our studios where nodding ostrich plumes in every colour poke out of beer tasting glasses. Beads, rhinestones, ribbons, lace and brocades in all colours allow us to create magic.

More than once it has been the clients who push our boundaries, which allows us to grow our repertoire. We can handle large orders with a deadline. We also create table decor, event accessories, branded products, and unique items to our clients’ specifications.

Our hand crafted masquerade masks are used for flamboyant balls, carnival events, theme parties, corporate events and functions, but are also employed as pieces of art for interior decorating.

Challenge us with your ideas! We would love to be of service to you.