This week we chat to new stallholders Amber Papenfus and Jenna Hattingh of homewares label, Coral + Brass.
You guys are best friends, how and why did you decide to go into business together?
We are both teachers and on the first day of our December holidays we decided to holiday in Bali, with the hope of relaxing but also to feed our love of homewares. We hoped to bring home some coastal beauties from the Indonesian workshops.
It was there that we stumbled across a brasserie which made beautiful hooks, drawer pulls and statement pieces that we couldn't resist. We ended up buying a whole heap of goodies for our own home. But, that afternoon we got chatting poolside, and decided that so many other Gold Coast homes would love these too! We went back and are now in the process of designing our own designs as well as bringing back their unique designs.
Do you both have a creative background?
We both met at University in 2009 whilst studying art. Jenna was studying a business degree with electives in Fine Art, while I (Amber) studied a bachelor of Digital Media, majoring in Fine Art.
Since then we have shared a love of being creative. We spent our university days styling wedding shoots, creating art and playing with a bit of photography. We now use teaching as our creative outlet.
Jenna teaches Art in High School and I incorporate art into my lessons as a Primary School teacher, which we both love!
Tell us about your brand name, how did this come about?
We were sitting in a Balinese hotel room brainstorming names while staring at our beautiful brass. We really wanted to incorporate brass into our name as they are our staple pieces, but we wanted to allude to our love of the Coast and seaside interiors. We decided to choose Coral + Brass because a lot of our designs are inspired by the ocean (and my sisters name is Coral haha).
What can we expect to find at your stall this Sunday at TVM 16 February?
We are currently stocking brass hooks and drawer pulls in a range designs such as pineapples, palms and sea shells. We have also just had some beautiful palm door plaques, pineapple door knockers and stunning brass bottle openers arrive! Our items come in an antique brass colour or brushed gold, which is just beautiful!
What inspires you creatively?
We go through creative phases. We started being obsessed by wedding decor, floral arrangements and stylised photography. As we moved to being homeowners, we found a new infatuation with homewares, renovations and beautifully designed spaces.
We both have different styles. Jenna loves French and Hamptons inspired living, while I love more coastal, relaxed beach house designs.
One thing we both have in common is our appreciation of a beautiful brass statement piece!
Do you work from home, an office or creative workspace?
Currently we work from both our homes. Jenna does all our marketing and social media and I work on the logistics, stocking and shipping.
Do you implement any sustainable practices within your company, if so tell us about this?
We are currently sourcing recycled postage packaging and gift bags, as well as recycled business cards.
Do you collaborate with any other local businesses?
We are in the process of talking with some local businesses on the Gold Coast. Stay tuned!
Why did you choose TVM as a platform for your business?
I have been a Burleigh/Miami local for over 20 years and have spent many weekends strolling through TVM on the hunt for my next original purchase.
We love that TVM values innovation, and supports local, small business.
We also know that the people of TVM will just love our curated collection as much as we do!
Where’s your favourite local coffee haunt?
Barefoot Barista or Canvas
Favourite book?
The Barefoot Investor - so easy to read and so practical!
Favourite podcasts?
Joe Rogan is a goody!
Favourite way to unwind?
Beachside, with a coffee in hand or homewares window shopping.
Websites or profiles you’re loving for business inspiration right now?
Three Birds Renovations is our ultimate fave!
What’s your favourite TVM stall, if you have one?
Brother Nature - because he is my brother, ha.
Find the girls from Coral + Brass at TVM this Sunday 16 February and you can also find them online, here.