The Timeless Tradition of Crackers
The story of crackers begins in Victorian England with confectioner Tom Smith, who in the 1840s sought to reinvent French bonbons. His innovation? A wrapped sweet that would "crack" when pulled apart, revealing hidden treasures within. This simple concept—part candy, part toy, part theater—would evolve into one of the world's most enduring holiday traditions.
Victorian-era crackers established a tradition that continues today.
The shared moment of discovery creates lasting memories.
What began as a marketing gimmick became cultural touchstone. By the turn of the century, crackers had become essential to British Christmas celebrations, their popularity spreading across the Commonwealth. The ritual is simple yet profound: two people grasp opposite ends, pull sharply, and share in the delight as contents spill forth amid the satisfying "snap."
Elegant designs elevate the dining experience.
Modern interpretations maintain traditional charm.
The 20th century saw crackers evolve from simple paper tubes to elaborate decorative pieces. While mass production made them more accessible, it often came at the expense of quality and sustainability—a compromise that Nairobi-based Dragonfly Crackers would later challenge.
The Dragonfly Revolution
Founded by Hellen Boullay, Dragonfly Crackers represents a paradigm shift in celebration accessories. The company's Nairobi workshop employs local artisans who handcraft each piece using sustainable materials and traditional techniques—proving that ethical production can enhance rather than diminish the celebratory experience.
Why Dragonfly Stands Apart
Unlike conventional crackers that prioritize disposability, Dragonfly's creations are designed with intention. Each component—from the handwoven paper to the hand-tied ribbons—tells a story of craftsmanship and care. The company's commitment extends beyond product to practice, ensuring fair wages and safe working conditions for all artisans.
Materials With Meaning
Dragonfly's innovation begins with its choice of materials. The primary component—water hyacinth paper—solves two problems simultaneously. This invasive aquatic plant chokes Lake Victoria's ecosystems; by harvesting and transforming it into beautiful paper, Dragonfly creates economic opportunity while restoring ecological balance.
Each pull celebrates sustainable design.
The Science of Celebration
Even the signature "snap" has been re-engineered. Traditional crackers use plastic-based mechanisms; Dragonfly crackers use a friction snap and the card used in the making of the snap is certified by Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). The FSC is an international non-profit, multistakeholder organization established in 1993 that promotes responsible management of the world's forests via timber certification. This organization uses a market-based approach to transnational environmental policy.
Our dyes come from EU-certified eco-inks, while the interior treasures are carefully curated to delight without waste. This thoughtful approach extends to packaging—minimal, recyclable, and often reusable. It's this holistic view of sustainability that has earned Dragonfly Crackers international acclaim, proving that tradition and innovation can coexist beautifully.