I have been lucky enough to encounter many courageous women throughout the years and learn their stories of how they were diagnosed with a life threatening illness that could have killed them. Instead they prevailed by turning their experience into something positive. I guess it puts life into perspective to enjoy the little things that might have been over looked in the past. I recently had the pleasure of interviewing Michelle Brown who is the owner of All Cork. Brown is a soft spoke kind hearted individual whose life was turned upside down when she was diagnosed with leukemia and subsequent recovery from a bone marrow transplant. Shortly after her recovery Brown took a trip to Portugal which inspired her to open her company All Cork which makes beautifully hand stitched purses and other accessories.
Below is my interview with Michelle Brown.
When you wake up in the morning what makes you smile?
After facing a life threatening disease, the fact that I am here to be mom for one more day! On a less serious note, my morning cup of coffee!
What inspired you to become a vegetarian?
For me, it is all about respect for the animals. It came to a point where I would look at a piece of meat and all I could see was a cute little face. Once I started apologizing to my Thanksgiving turkey as I was preparing it, I knew it was time! I have taken the next step, now on a vegan diet and loving it. I was hooked after reading Alicia Silverstone’s book, The Kind Diet. The recipes are delicious!
What drove you to create your company?
Receiving doctor clearance to fly after a bone marrow transplant, my mother surprised me with a trip to Portugal in 2009. I was introduced to items made from cork and couldn’t understand why this amazing resource was vastly underused. I felt there was a void in the marketplace for luxurious, leather alternative handbags made from renewable, sustainable resources and knew immediately this was going to be my new business!
What inspired you to use cork as your material of choice?
I became obsessed with cork items and couldn’t wait to spread the word about this unique, versatile material.
How is the cork harvested?
Harvesting is a process that does not harm the tree in any way. The bark is extracted entirely by hand, without any machinery, by skilled, trained technicians. The first harvest occurs at approximately 25 years of age. The bark regenerates and the harvest continues every 9-12 years until the tree is approximately 150 – 200 years old. After the cork is harvested, it is transported to the factory where the processing begins. Think sheets of cork are made from the leftover waste from producing wine stoppers. These sheets are then backed with fabric and cork leather is formed.
Was it difficult to get permission to harvest the cork or do you purchase it from suppliers in Portugal?
The cork is purchased from suppliers in Portugal and Spain.
Where are the bags made?
All Cork items are hand stitched in Portugal.
What is the process you go through when making your product?
I design my bags and accessories based upon what I like and what I would want to buy. I always look for durability, functionality and great style! I personally put my design samples to the test to ensure top quality.
Is it labor intensive?
The complete process from cork forest to the handbag is detailed and labor intensive. Many skilled hands are involved, beginning with the harvest. From there, the manufacturing of the cork leather begins and it is then passed on to seamstresses who are familiar with handling this unique fabric.
What is the most challenging part about your company?
Right now, I would say the most challenging part is educating people about cork and it’s attributes. I can’t say enough about it! First and foremost, cork is a sustainable, renewable resource. It is also lightweight, durable, soft, stain resistant and water resistant. And just so pretty and cool!
Do you have any best sellers?
My best selling handbag is the “Jaime” quilted evening bag/clutch. Fits the girlie essentials for a night out while remaining lightweight. My best selling accessory is the women’s wallet, so spacious to keep anyone completely organized.
What made you choose the charities you support?
Gift of Life is an organization that is dear to my heart. They were a huge source of support for my family when I was diagnosed with leukemia and in need of a bone marrow transplant. They do amazing work and help so many! Giftoflife.org Supporting animal rescue organizations has always been extremely important to me. I have been an animal lover ever since I was a little girl. Adopt, adopt, adopt!
What sustainable practices does your company follow?
ALL CORK is a company that is respectful to our planet. Since the majority of cork tree forests are found in Portugal and Spain, I am committed to using manufacturers that share my view and minimize their carbon footprint while processing their cork. Packaging used for shipping is kept to a minimum and eco-friendly. In the office, paper use is also kept to a minimum.
What does sustainable fashion mean to you?
For me, sustainable fashion means anything that reduces our carbon footprint on the planet. I believe in buying classic, functional, stylish, quality items made to last, and if possible, from sustainable, renewable resources. We need to be conscious consumers and less wasteful!
What is one thing you find surprises most people about All Cork?
When thinking of cork, most envision the texture of a wine cork stoppers. Everyone is surprised the first time they see and touch my products. They can’t believe how soft it is and how much it looks like leather. Also, the fact that cork trees are never cut down!
Do you have a favorite item in your line?
No, I truly love them all and use every ALL CORK item! Well, except the men’s wallet, which my husband and two teenage boys use and love!
Name one thing you wish more people would recycle? (Can be as creative as you want with this question)
Who could forget the memorable Linus quote from Snoopy Comes Home —
“You got a used dog, Charlie Brown!” I urge everyone who is considering a furry addition to their family, to visit a local shelter or contact a rescue organization. There are even specific breed rescue organizations too. Adopt, don’t shop and go ahead, use your recycled dog or cat for years of unconditional love and companionship!
What’s in store for the future?
I am looking forward to the upcoming launch of my pet accessories line, called BARK. Also coming soon, is the addition of new handbag and accessory styles, colors and patterns. As for the future, my vision is a world full of all things cork and a flagship store in my hometown of NYC. The possibilities are endless!
If you would like more information on All Cork please feel free to click on one of the links above.
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