In this week's interview, we introduce Harbour UK, a London-based jewellery brand founded by designer Pablo who produces authentic and sustainable pieces that are designed to last a lifetime. Read on, to learn more about how he started his brand and to gain further insight into his creative process. 

How did your brand begin?

Well, let me tell you. It all started with my work in the markets around London. 
 
I was blown away by the positive feedback from customers who appreciated my products. After hearing this time and time again, I thought to myself: why not take this to the next level and create an online presence? That way, people from all over the world could have access to my products at any time. And that's how HARBOUR UK was born in 2015! 
 
It's been an incredible journey, and I'm so grateful for all the support and love we've received along the way.
 
Where do you draw inspiration from for your designs?
 
I believe that inspiration can come from anywhere and everywhere, so I try to keep an open mind and stay curious about the world around me. 
 
Sometimes I'll see something as simple as a pattern on a piece of fabric or a shape in a cloud, and it will trigger an idea for a design. 
 
Other times, I'll intentionally seek out new experiences, whether that's trying a new food or attending a concert, to help me break out of my routine and see things from a different perspective.
 
How are your products made?
 
All of my bracelets are made by hand, knot by knot. 
 
What does that mean? 
 
It means that each bracelet is created from scratch using a completely different process than the typical rope bracelets you might see online. 
 
Rather than simply buying a roll of material and adding closures, I craft each bracelet individually and with care. This ensures that every bracelet is completely unique and made with the utmost attention to detail. So when you purchase one of my bracelets, you can be sure that you're getting a truly one-of-a-kind piece.
 
How do you source your materials?
 
At our company, we believe in supporting small businesses and local communities. That's why we make a conscious effort to source our materials from other small enterprises whenever possible.
 
We prioritize quality and sustainability in our materials, and we work closely with our suppliers to ensure that they meet our standards. By partnering with small businesses, we get high-quality materials and contribute to the growth and success of other entrepreneurs. We're proud to be part of a network of businesses that supports each other and works towards a common goal.
 
Additionally, we invest in marketing strategies that help to raise awareness of our brand and products, with a focus on highlighting the unique qualities and benefits of our materials and our production process.
 
Through our commitment to sourcing materials responsibly and supporting our fellow small businesses, we hope to make a positive impact on our community and the environment.
 
Can you recall a particular moment with a client that will stay with you forever? Could be a funny horror story or a fond memory.
 
I recently received a card from a customer in Australia telling me about her son who has autism and how much he loves wearing my bracelets.
 
Reading her heartfelt message was a truly moving experience, and it made me reflect on the impact that our work can have on people's lives, even on the other side of the world.
 
It's moments like these that remind me of why I started this business in the first place - to create meaningful connections and bring joy to others through my craft.
 
Knowing that my bracelets have the power to make a positive difference, even in a small way, is incredibly rewarding and motivates me to keep pushing forward.
 
 
What music do you play in the studio whilst you’re working?
 
My go-to music while working is indie folk, especially José González.
 
I recently discovered Charlie Cunningham. Music inspires and motivates me as I create my products.
 
If you could travel to one place in the world right now, where would it be and why?
 
I've been thinking about taking a trip to Scotland - I used to live there, and it's always been a place that inspires me. The natural beauty and serenity there can really help disconnect you and refresh your creativity.
 
I think sometimes people tend to focus on far-off destinations when seeking inspiration, but there are so many beautiful places close to us that we often overlook.
 
What drew you to JewelStreet?
 
I really appreciate the fact that they support small, independent brands, and their selection of products is absolutely beautiful.
 
Their commitment to ethics is another aspect that drew me to the JewelStreet community.
 
All of these reasons combined made me want to be a part of it!
 
Thank you for talking with us Pablo!