I believe in Ireland we are a country with deep roots in creativity and design. So to see this beautiful business, not just get through a global pandemic but thrive is fantastic. Today we chat with the woman behind KinnOir, Michelle
Tell me how KinnOir came about and what makes you so passionate about what you do?
My mum made her own wedding dress, veil, silk turban, headpiece and cake. She also made my communion dress from fine lawn muslin, a Carrick Mac cross veil and headpiece. So, I have grown up in a very creative house with an emphasis on practical skills. I could use a sewing machine at the age of 6 or 7. I did wire work and jewellery making as a hobby in my teenage years and made some pieces for friends and family.
It was while I was searching for a beautiful hair accessory for my wedding day that I went back to that hobby to create a unique piece for myself. When I wore my own headpiece I absolutely loved it, knowing it was made to the absolute highest standard - I remade it 3 times until I was 100% happy. It was then I noticed companies re-selling products from Ali Express and it made me realise that there was a gap in the market for luxury Irish hand-made veils and headpieces.
After making bespoke veils and combs for friends weddings, I threw myself into preparing my brand and developing my first collection and all the work behind the scenes that come with opening a business. I officially opened KinnOir in July 2019 and celebrated a year in business last year!
What are you doing in your business and for your clients though this last year and Covid 19?
I have pivoted my business by being able to design pieces with brides remotely. My favourite part is when I send the reveal slide show and the reaction from brides. Then when the luxurious box arrives by post and they get to open their headpiece or veil.
My collection called “In bloom” which I released June 2020, took a completely different direction to what I had originally planned. I was meant to release it in March 2020 but due to the Coronavirus I put it on pause. Being only in the fledgling stage of a business, it was very hard to be hit with the pandemic. I had just left my day job and for the first time I was able to work from home and walk around my local area taking in the nature, really “see” the flowers and leaves. I decided to take my time with the collection and base it on Irish wildflowers. I was also desperately home sick for my parents and granny and all the places I spent my happiest childhood memories, so there is a hint of nostalgia with vintage style laces and point d’espirit tulle.
What is your big dream for KinnOir?
I am now working on some 2021 editions for the Signature Collection and Summer Blossom Collection and have a range of crowns coming as well. My bespoke service is the most popular. I work with my brides creating sketches and ideas for their piece. Sending regular photo and video updates so they can see their piece come to life. If it’s a veil I am working on, I send a swatch sample and then they can match it to their dress and give me the measurements and I am able to make it and send it. I have had so many happy brides. I love to create something unique for them that they will treasure and give them a special experience of designing it with me.
My plan going forward is to create new collections and products to build on my bespoke service and expand my stockists in Ireland and abroad. I am looking forward to growing the KinnÓir team and focus on building my luxury brand and putting Irish design on the map!
What an inspiring story and to see how the creative process works for you . Check out KinnOir collections at www.kinnoir.ie and send some social love to @kinnoir
Is Irish design important to you when planning your wedding? I think more than ever there is a focus on supporting and nurturing our small but mighty Irish businesses – Let me know if there is any wedding suppliers that you found particularly amazing when planning your wedding.
