In 2010 Buttons by Benji was launched in Christchurch, New Zealand.  From kitchen table beginnings, designer maker Nicola Duffy nurtured her passion to create a thriving business, posting cute and quirky handmade buttons to knitters around the country.  Drawing on her experience in business, retail and a science degree, Duffy soon added retail stores and international buyers to her customer base.  In 2014 Ginger Mint Collection was born.  

Duffy's coveted creations were handcrafted in her Melbourne studio following a trans-Tasman move in 2016.  In 2024 Duffy moved back to Christchurch, New Zealand to pursue a Masters, but she finds time for crafting Ginger Mint goodies between lessons.