The team behind CoralBloom
Tracing back to times spent exploring the rock pools, mountains and veld surrounding the village of Cape Infanta was really the inception of CoralBloom. This creative endeavor, borne from a close bond with nature, is a family initiative woven together by my sister, mum, dad and myself.
I earned a PhD in Botany & Microbiology and am a self-taught artist and jewellery designer. A hobby of painting and turning reclaimed copper into jewelry evolved into a full-time passion called CoralBloom. Our functional art range aims to bring joy into the home to inspire and share our deep love for nature.
Our family has always had a heart driven passion and synergistic dynamic where everyone’s unique skills are showcased. My mother and sister, both self-taught artists, contribute the original naturalist paintings fusing traditional and modernist watercolor designs. My father is the talented carpenter and self-taught jeweller who transforms reclaimed metal into wearable functional art. It is my role to translate the artworks into digital designs and balance all operations for the CoralBloom Studio.
In 2020 we were also affected by the pandemic restrictions and lockdown. As a family we responded to new economic challenges by launching a range teaming with local fynbos and shells showcased on home-ware, décor and accessories. We have also been collaborating with local fashion designers, which features a bespoke limited edition linen-range of our prints.
We align ourselves with slow and circular design principles and strive to create thoughtful items that communicate a story of respect and care. We ensure that materials and supplies are sourced locally and only work with printers who use eco-friendly water-based inks and energy saving equipment. Our range is currently available in natural fabrics and fabric made from 100% recycled PET. To prevent wastage, we keep a few items in stock and have digital catalogues so that products are made to order on demand. Layouts for printing are meticulously planned to minimize offcuts and wastage.
Products are lovingly hand-sewn by us and are made to last. Our growing team of skilled seamstresses, working from home across the Cape, Bloemfontein, De Aar, and Port Elizabeth, are true artisans of their trade. To help us fulfill larger orders, we also collaborate with local CMT teams and we are excited to be working towards launching our own clothing collection in 2025. At CoralBloom, we are committed to a zero-waste philosophy — every small piece of fabric is repurposed into zip bags, scrunchies, or saved to stuff beds for local animal welfare centers. As part of our commitment to ethical and transparent growth, we aim to educate consumers to choose products that prioritize the health of our environment. The CoralBloom team continues to draw inspiration from the richly varied South African landscape, sharing its beauty and heritage through our creations.
Xx Michelle
