Today we’d like to introduce you to Coral Wedel. Them and their team share their story with us below:
Coral grew up on the whole grains, humidity, and sunshine of Southeast Ohio’s Appalachian Valley. She finds inspiration in the sky, the ground, the water, and her relationships. “Designing is an exploration of my surroundings,” says Coral.
Her previous career in the fashion industry informs her choices in the search for balancing a healthy creative practice. Upon becoming a mother, Coral slowly built her collection as a way to structure work, while balancing her new roles. Since 2011 the business has grown & blossomed along her personal journey of womanhood.
She says, “I strive to fulfill my creative practice while being respectful to the planet and to my community. As I design, I focus on a harmony of functionality and beauty. I focus on sourcing sustainable materials that are reused, recycled, or organic along with producing the work by hand in my studio.
Being a maker is an important part of my design philosophy. By handcrafting each piece personally from start to finish I ensure the quality and impact of my work. This investment in the process allows for a better understanding of how to harmonize all the aspects that go into the work. As a tactile person who enjoys materiality, I find myself humbled, challenged, and inspired by the process of making slow fashion.”
Coral holds a BFA from the School of The Art Institute of Chicago. Prior to launching her own collection, she worked in design, production & sales for both women’s and children’s wear.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle-free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
Growing up Appalachian was not always something I have highlighted. My desire to leave the region and go out into the big world was strong. I moved to Chicago to pursue my education as quick as I could and never intended to return home. After years of exploring through education and professional endeavors, I found myself home in Appalachia again. This change coupled with being a new Mom really was a challenge that became the catalyst for all that has come after in my life such as my business, my parenting philosophy, and my professional journey into offering higher education in fashion regionally. Life is full of challenges and my own experience has certainly reflected that truth. Facing the obstacles and challenges with creative problem solving and a can-do attitude has been a mindset that has allowed my success. This gritty attitude, I have come to realize, is the essence of my own Appalachian heritage. Making a lot out of a little and being willing to put in the work is how I have made it to where I am today.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
Coral Marie is a sustainable lifestyle brand imbued with practical minimalist beauty.
A consciously handcrafted slow fashion collection & custom clothier on a mission to balance aesthetics and function in order to create strong design that is crafted responsibly while also developing meaningful relationships through community support.
Founded on the belief that the clothing we wear is of utmost importance because it affects the way we feel and there is such power in feeling. How we feel is a force that can change everything. How we feel changes our actions and our ideas; it guides us.
What we wear can be an intentional choice to change the world.
The Coral Marie Collection is comprised of limited-edition slow fashion and lifestyle products. Each item is designed and responsibly handcrafted in small batches in her solar-powered studio. Offering timeless options for every season.
Coral Marie’s design studio is nestled int the rolling hills of Appalachia. Together with her family, the homestead and studios reside in an evolving creative landscape. Rooted in intentional living through permaculture concepts, land revitalization, and integrated sustainable studio practices they enrich each other.
Within the Studio Shop, you will find a curated selection of accessories, lifestyle products, and gifts featured as compliment to the Coral Marie Collection. Partnering with similar mission-driven brands and independent makers when offering anything that is not made on site.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
Mentorship and networking are really important pieces to finding success in any profession. My advice is to always build connections and relationships that are meaningful with those around you. If you make this a constant and consistent practice you will always have someone to call on when you have questions, need advice, or just want support in your next endeavor.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://coralmarie.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coralmariecollection/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CoralMarieCollection/
Image Credits
January Heuss Photography LLC
