Jeannine Birch started Coral + Hive in 2016 as a natural home interior brand to share the magic of South African makers. She grew up admiring the art of weaving, and is personally passionate about the creative process behind woven craftsmanship. Jeannine has a natural talent with colour, texture and pattern, as well as an innate awareness of how these elements contribute to a sense of wellbeing in a space. Her creative vision can be found in every element of Coral + Hive.
We love to honour the stories behind Coral + Hive and her people, and here we chatted to Jeannine about the very beginnings of this special company.
Tell us about the start of Coral + Hive
I started Coral + Hive in 2016 when I was a new mom with a busy mind. I was living in London at the time, feeling somewhat wistful for my home country of South Africa. In particular, my creative mind was wandering over thoughts of African artisans, and how I could bring a piece of their magic to the UK. I came up with the name Coral + Hive, the natural home and contemplated bringing over a variety of handmade homeware items made in South Africa.
I started by looking into handwoven rugs, as I had memories of being spellbound by women weavers when I was a young girl. I soon realised that the world of handwoven rugs was deep and beautiful, and I decided to focus solely on rugs. I immersed myself in learning about fibres and weaving techniques and I started visiting interior designers all over London, building relationships and sourcing handwoven rugs from South Africa for them. And so, a little business began.
The first year was a time of research, trial and error. The supplier journey was full of highs and challenging lows, but when an opportunity arose to buy and own the operations of a South African loom which was closing, we cautiously took the leap. We employed the team of weavers and started weaving our own rugs under the Coral + Hive brand. It was a daunting responsibility and at this point I realised I really had to give it my all. Our head weaver, Nazeema was one of these original ladies, and with over 30 years’ experience in weaving she was an absolute gem who has trained all subsequent weavers to a very high standard.
From there we grew slowly but surely. I worked with my friend, pattern designer Erica Bartholomae, to design original Coral + Hive patterns and I hired the amazing Debs, who managed the South African looms and operations, while I built client relationships in London. We also partnered with a family-owned loom in India, which expanded the rug and fibre options wonderfully. We’ve worked with internationally celebrated interior designers who have spread the Coral + Hive love. We’ve added wonderfully talented people to our team along the way, and we’ve honed our design skills, weaving skills, our fibre blends and colour work to a point where I can bravely say that we are offering something completely unique and utterly beautiful. It’s a showcase of gorgeous natural fibres and exceptional weaving talent combined with thoughtful design.
What are some of your personal values in business?
I hope to make each person I meet or work with feel valued, happy and supported. I really appreciate input from everybody in the Coral + Hive family, and always try to give credit where it’s due.
I love to celebrate people and special occasions.
I respect the art of weaving and am committed to preserving this artform for generations to come.
I believe in the importance of balance – we need to take the time to connect with nature and the people we love.
I am so inspired by new goals and dreams, and feel most energised when working with fresh, new ideas.
What does success look like for you?
If our looms are full and are a hive of activity, chatter, laughter and song – and our cashflow is healthy! 🙂
I also see success in sharing the loom journey and the making process – I want clients to feel connected to the art of weaving and to truly slow down and appreciate the beauty of that piece as it lives in their home. I want the weavers to feel proud, valued and acknowledged for their talents.
Success would be seeing a significant shift in the way that people purchase items for their homes. It’s my dream to see people buying consciously – special items that have soul and a story behind them, that were made with love and talent. Sustainable heirloom items that make you slow down and unwind.
And I want Coral + Hive to be producing the most magnificent natural handwoven rugs in the world.
Your favourite Coral + Hive rug?
Ooooh, that’s not fair – can I choose 10?!
I adore our African fibre rugs in their natural tones for that feeling of pared back luxury – the lox mohair and karakul wool blend would be my choice.
If I were choosing something for my family home I’d go for a jute and wool combination in herringbone.
I also love abstract patterns and organic shapes in rugs.
How did Covid 19 restrictions affect you and the business?
Personally, finding balance in mothering and business was tricky with two young, energetic boys at home. I was worried about our weavers’ safety and also felt the pressure of needing to ensure they were financially supported over a time where everything ground to a halt. It was hard, but as a team we pulled together to make it through.
Positively – it was encouraging to see the shift in the way people were purchasing. They had time to consider their home spaces and to make considered decisions. Ironically, my inbox filled with enquiries during lockdown. People were seeking to declutter and create natural homes – spaces that were understated sanctuaries, close to nature and calming. I think our natural rugs are the perfect foundation for these homes.
As a team we had time to think, streamline and get some important processes in place. Ultimately, we’ve come out better.