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the human behind this project
Hi, I’m Karla. I’m based in Whanganui, New Zealand, and I’m a wife and mum to one amazing young girl, alongside our two rescue cats, Alfie and Shadow.
I grew up in rural New Zealand, surrounded by animals who were rescued and welcomed into our home. From pet lambs, chickens, and rabbits, to dogs, cats, horses and even a pet pig. I had the privilege of caring for many beloved animals, each holding a special place in my heart.
They were more than pets. They were companions, friends, and quiet confidants who shared in everyday adventures. Growing up close to nature, I became deeply aware of life’s cycle, that all living things eventually pass. But knowing this has never made the loss any easier.
As a child, I found my own ways to cope with grief. I held small funerals for each of them. My goldfish, Sparky, who lived to the grand old age of 12, was laid to rest in a Ferrero Rocher box decorated with rainbow tinsel. My rabbit, Cleo, had a service with Ace of Base playing softly on my Walkman. And my best friend of 18 years, a rescue cat named KC, was buried in our family garden, with a native tree planted to honour her life.
There are many ways to say goodbye to our beloved companions, and no single path through grief. As a graphic designer, I now use my skills to create personalised keepsakes and memorial pieces that honour these deep bonds. Over time, I’ve also gathered gentle resources to support others navigating the loss of a pet.
If you have something to share or would like to connect, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. We’re all here to help each other through this journey.
why I started so long snowy
A Personal Journey of Loss and Healing
I’ve been incredibly blessed to have pets in my life, and I understand firsthand the depth of love and the heartache that comes with losing them. As an adult, I’ve watched others try to navigate their own grief, uncertain of how to support those experiencing loss. It’s a difficult and delicate journey, and sometimes it feels hard to know if you’re saying or doing the right things. I saw this struggle and wondered, “How can I make this tough time a little bit kinder?”
This idea has been something I’ve been working on for a long time. While completing my Graphic Design studies, I created a mock brand for my graduate show called ARC, which featured a range of products designed to help people through the grieving process of losing a pet. This concept has always stayed with me, and after many years of reflection and development, it has evolved into what you see now.
This project is incredibly close to my heart, and I truly hope you find the support, comfort, and products you need here.
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my hopes for this project
A Resource for Healing and Support
I’m deeply grateful for the support of some incredible organisations doing important work right here in New Zealand. Although I’m based here, I truly believe the resources and community within this project have the potential to reach far beyond our borders.
I envision So Long Snowy as the go-to place for those in need of support during the difficult journey of pet grief. I want people to spread the word about this valuable resource, sharing it with friends and loved ones who are grieving.
Ultimately, I want this to be the "go-to" resource for anyone navigating the loss of a pet. The community, resources, and products we offer are designed to help provide comfort, healing, and support.
Please, help us spread the word and support those who need it most. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of millions grieving their beloved pets.