Our Story

Ecorations™ was formed in May 2008 by Kathy de Jong and Debora Owens, but it’s conception stems from Kathy’s marriage and first Christmas with her new mother-in-law in 2000. A native of the Netherlands, Mrs. de Jong presented Kathy with her first gift - in a well-used, yet cherished, natural burlap tote with Santa screen printed on the front. Mrs. de Jong explained in her Dutch accent that these bags had been in the family for years, and she “needed it back”. She said with a chuckle, “you’ll see it again next year!”.

Both Kathy and Debora share a passion for travel, and in their travels noted that despite the many differences in cultures and traditions around the world, one of the most universal customs is the act of gift-giving.

It’s with this sense of global appeal, Dutch practicality and environmental conservatism that Ecorations™ was formed. Kathy enlisted the help of long-time friend and one-time co-worker, Debora Owens to work on this venture.

Kathy (Hain) de Jong, PMP, President and co-founder of Ecorations™

Kathy has spent her career working in a variety of different fields as an internal and external management consultant, and decided to put those skills to work for her own company as a "ecopreneur".

Kathy is a native of Erie, PA. She attended the University of Miami (The “U”).  She is married with three children, and lives in Clemmons, NC.

Debora (Torres) Owens, Vice-President and co-founder of Ecorations™

Debora has an eclectic background, with experience in brand management, finance and consulting.  With a passion for start-ups, she could not resist joining her long-time friend on this new venture.

Debora is a native of Bogota, Colombia, and New York City.  She earned her degrees from the Goizueta Business School at Emory Universtiy and Baruch College, CUNY. She enjoys running, dancing and traveling. Debora is married and has two children.