Making the switch to Coconut fibres…
Firstly, tell us a little bit about yourself, who are the people behind Life of Coco? And is your home a tropical paradise like your brand??
We are Elena & Joe, lovers, beach bums and passionate about all things ocean! Life of Coco was born from a walk along the coastline of Mount Martha in Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula. We were shocked by the sheer volume of rubbish from plastic water bottles, thongs and empty beer bottles that interrupted the views of one of our favourite coastal locations. We had never seen anything like this in Australia. As beach lovers, we refused to walk away and allow this rubbish to end up in the waterways that we share with our local dolphins and sea life. We utilised the empty beer boxes that were left behind and collected as much rubbish as possible that we could fit in our car (if only we took a photo to share how scary it really was).
We couldn’t take that sight out of our minds. We refused to accept that we were two “nobodies” that couldn’t make a difference. So, we set out to build a brand that focussed on providing eco-friendly alternatives and to create a movement in a fun and unique way! And that’s how “Life of Coco” was born.
We recently launched our online business doing everything you see ourselves! I (Elena) am a Graphic Designer, so created the branding and do all our marketing, socials and photography. Joe has a finance background, so together, we’re pretty well-rounded! We’re really proud of our brand and our mission as a company to help reduce waste and the use of plastics. We live beach front on the most gorgeous part of the Mornington Peninsula in a bustling town called Rye, so we’re particularly passionate about protecting and preserving our backyard and will do anything in our power to protect our oceans and ocean friends.
What is a travel destination you would go ASAP once we can travel again??
Definitely Vietnam to meet our makers! Since launching Life of Coco, we have met our partners in Vietnam over video calls and talk with them daily, but it would be our absolute dream to go over and meet them in person, to thank them for being our trusted partner. Each of our products is handcrafted by local artisans, meaning that absolutely every piece is unique and one-of-a-kind. It’s pretty amazing to think that all our products are sourced from nature and crafted by hand! That’s why we are so passionate about sharing how beautiful our range is. Once you touch it, feel it, see it and understand each piece’s journey, you truly appreciate how amazing nature is and how much we can use around us.
Life of Coco is... in your own words?
The epitome of summer, fun and tropical paradise, no matter where you are in the world! The life of coconut is carefree, overlooking the turquoise water and crisp white sand. Sun beaming down on you all day long whilst keeping cool under the wide palms of the coconut tree.
What makes coconut bowls/products eco-friendly? Where/how are they made?
Our coconut bowls are made in Vietnam by the local community from 100% natural coconuts. Our bowls have a positive impact on the environment as the manufacturing of coconut bowls prevents millions of coconut shells being tossed into landfill every year. They are also 100% natural, BPA free, toxin free and most importantly, plastic free. Although your coconut bowl will last a lifetime with the correct care, if you decide you’re finished with them, you can return them to nature and they will begin to compost as they are 100% natural.
Any future plans for LOC?
We have some very exciting things in the mix for Life of Coco! We are looking expand into a whole new summer range of functional and beautiful products. Stay tuned to find out more!
Could you give any advice for young entrepreneurs? What would you tell yourself?
No means yes later
Knock down those doors. Ask the question. Explore all opportunities! There are often times we are scared to ask, because we are scared that the answer will be no. Don’t take it personally! Sometimes, your business, or you, simply may not be ready at that particular time, but it doesn’t mean you can’t revisit it at a later stage. Especially as females, we can take a “no” to heart and go over in our heads a million things we could have done differently to get a “yes”. But what we forget is that most of the time, the person we are dealing with hasn’t given it another thought! They said no because of a particular reason at that time. Ask why the answer was no and you may be pleasantly surprised. It could be something that you could work on or address for the future, and there’s no harm in asking again at a later date.
Where can we find your products??
Make your purchase towards helping the planet online at lifeofcoco.com.au Use code FRANCO for a cheeky 20% off storewide* for our Franco fam!
*some exclusions apply
