By: Jennifer Thompson
In the hustle and bustle of modern life, sustainability often takes a backseat to convenience. However, for Carmen Olsen, the founder of Park + Coop, sustainability is not just a buzzword—it’s a way of life. Driven by a passion for eco-conscious living and a desire to create meaningful products, Carmen set out to revolutionize the home décor industry with her innovative brand.
Q: What inspired you to start Park + Coop?
A: My inspiration for Park + Coop came from a personal need for sustainable children’s aprons. As a mother who values eco-friendly practices, I was frustrated by the lack of options available in the market. I wanted aprons that were not only stylish but also made from sustainable materials. When I couldn’t find what I was looking for, I decided to create it myself. That’s how Park + Coop was born.
Carmen’s journey with Park + Coop began in her own kitchen, where cooking and baking served as bonding experiences with her children. Dissatisfied with the available options for children’s aprons, Carmen saw an opportunity to merge her passion for sustainability with her love for family time. She envisioned aprons that were not only practical and eco-friendly but also stylish enough to be worn with pride.
As Carmen delved deeper into the world of sustainable fashion, she became increasingly aware of the staggering amount of textile waste generated each year. Determined to make a difference, Carmen decided to tackle the issue head-on by upcycling discarded denim and other textiles into unique home décor pieces. By repurposing materials that would otherwise end up in landfills, Park + Coop is not only reducing waste but also creating beautiful, one-of-a-kind products.
Park + Coop’s commitment to sustainability goes beyond its products—it’s woven into the very fabric of the brand. Drawing inspiration from the rustic charm of farmhouse chic, Carmen and her team create timeless pieces that add a touch of elegance to any space. From denim placemats with pockets to napkins and handbags crafted from repurposed materials, Park + Coop offers a curated collection of upcycled home décor options that are as stylish as they are sustainable.
Q: What challenges have you faced along the way, and how have you overcome them?
A: Like any entrepreneur, I’ve faced my fair share of challenges. Sourcing sustainable materials at scale has been particularly challenging. It’s not always easy to find suppliers who share our values and meet our standards for quality and sustainability. However, we’ve been able to overcome these challenges through perseverance and creativity. We’re constantly exploring new ways to source materials and improve our processes to ensure that we’re as sustainable as possible.
In a world where fast fashion reigns supreme, Park + Coop is a breath of fresh air. With its commitment to sustainability and style, the brand is paving the way for a more eco-conscious future. Through her innovative approach to design and unwavering dedication to sustainability, Carmen Olsen is proving that you don’t have to sacrifice style to make a positive impact on the planet. With Park + Coop, eco-friendly living has never looked so chic.
Published by: Holy Minoza
