Behind every great business is a great partnership. For Dillon and Jos, success meant growing together, balancing business with family, and overcoming challenges side by side. Their journey from a small coffee shop to a thriving brand proves the power of hard work, resilience, and partnership.
Let’s start from the very beginning. Dillon’s journey was anything but conventional. His story intertwines with his wife, Jos, whom he first met while working on the yachts. After years of travelling the world, they realised the lifestyle wasn’t for them and made the life-changing decision to return home to Cape Town.
Back home, Dillon’s mother ran a successful ceramics company, Wonki Ware, supplying bespoke ceramics to the likes of Nigella Lawson, Jamie Oliver, and Cindy Crawford. Dillon started working for his mom while figuring out his future, but deep down, he knew this wasn’t his calling. When he was eventually let go, it was the wake-up call he needed – it was time to dream bigger.
A Dream, A Plot of Land, and a Whole Lot of Hard Work
Determined to build something of their own, Dillon and Jos bought a small plot of land in George and opened a coffee shop inspired by their travels to Bali. It was a true labour of love – they poured their hearts, sweat, and savings into it. With just enough money to cover expenses, they became baristas, cleaners, waiters, managers, and owners – working seven days a week, often for 18 hours a day.
Dillon recalls the early mornings, cleaning the shop at 04:00 a.m., with loyal customers passing by and witnessing their relentless dedication. Those first five years were gruelling, but they never gave up. When COVID hit, they were fortunate to keep operating, serving doctors, lawyers, and essential workers. Social media played a huge role in their growth during this time, and once lockdown lifted, business soared. They were finally able to hire help and with that, their dream truly began to take shape.
The Birth of The Pottery
Dillon’s hunger for innovation led them to create something that set them apart from big coffee franchises – an experience that combined ceramics and coffee. And so, The Pottery was born.
As their passion grew, so did the idea of expansion. They had always envisioned KZN as a potential location, and when Lifestyle Centre began developing Eat Street and The Studios, Dillon spotted the perfect space. Years later, when they finally made the move, the very same store he had once eyed was available. It was fate.
Their decision to open in Ballito was both a business opportunity and a personal one – Jos’ parents were based in Underberg, making it a win-win for their family. But expansion came with its challenges. Without external funding, Dillon reinvested everything back into the business. When they opened the Ballito branch, they didn’t even have enough left for a sign above the door. Every rand from selling Wonki Ware ceramics and coffee went into getting their name up.
Building a Community, Not Just a Business
Each of their stores – from George to Camps Bay, J-Bay, Stellenbosch, and Ballito – has fostered its unique sense of community. “This journey isn’t always straightforward, especially when expanding into new locations where we’re not locals,” Dillon reflects. “The key is adapting to the local culture rather than imposing an outsider’s perspective. We’ve learned that humility is essential – ditching the ‘big city’ mindset and taking time to connect with people. Small businesses are the heartbeat of these communities, and integrating into them, rather than competing against them, has been crucial.”
At its core, a business is only as strong as the people behind it. When you build with community in mind, it becomes more than just a business – it becomes a part of people’s lives. And that, Dillon and Jos believe, is what makes the journey worthwhile.
Balancing Business, Marriage, and Parenthood
Running a business as a couple – especially with two little ones in – comes with its challenges. “We’re lucky to have found each other and to have figured out how to work together,” Dillon says. “There are things in the business that Jos doesn’t enjoy but that I do, and vice versa – we balance each other out.”
Their golden rule? Keeping work and home life separate. “We’ve learned not to bring business to the dinner table. That time is for our family and for ensuring our kids get the best opportunities to enjoy life.”
The Secret to Success? There Isn’t One
When asked if there’s a winning formula, Dillon laughs. “There’s no cheat sheet or A-to-Z plan. It’s about how you tackle challenges together. You’ve got to have both feet in the water and work really, really hard. From there, opportunities come, and the business grows. It’s in those moments – when everything feels like it’s about to fall apart – that pushing through together makes all the difference.”
For other couples dreaming of building a business together, Dillon’s advice is simple: “Be open-minded. Recognise each other’s strengths. Have a clear vision. But most importantly, never stop caring for and loving each other along the way.”
www.ballito.thepottery.co.za
