We are honoured to announce our newest section to our readers, MADE IN HENLEY, to put a spotlight on local businesses. We are starting with a brand new local business we are very excited about MARANZA
To begin tell us your story.
I was born and raised in Vaalpark, not too far from Henley actually. I studied Law and Accounting in Potchefstroom after high school. I continued to complete a master’s degree in Germany, where I specialized in international dispute resolution. My adventure in Germany lead me to PwC in Frankfurt where I did forensic fraud investigations. This is where our bio ‘Designed with German Precision’ comes from, it was a brutal combination. After almost 9 years in Germany, I decided to move back in 2021. During the transition, I was fortunate enough to do home-office here for a few months. Most of that time was used to learn everything I can about leathercraft and sourcing supplies and tools with my dad. He passed away during this time and I was so thankful that we had that time together. The Maranza Brand logo, initially belonged to my dad (Melt Coetzee), which I ( Maranza Coetzee) am using now because we have the same initials.
For how many years have you been working with leather?
Not that long. My dad unintentionally gave me the idea. He wanted to make leather sheaths for the knives he made. We started talking about it in December 2021 and I order my first leather kit from Amazon in January 2021. The first attempt did not go that well, but my dad told me to keep practicing. My initial intention was to lean a new hobby and I am not the baking type.
When did you start Maranza the business slash brand?
I think some of it came together without me even knowing it. I did not resign from forensics to start my own leather business. Yet, when I got my first wallet order from a friend, I recorded the process and posted it on IG and during the home-office period, I hardly focused on work. I bought 40 Euro Kit in January 2021 and officially started the brand in October 2021.
How did moving to Henley influence your business?
I moved to Henley this February, so I would say I am still new. I found there is a great support structure for small business in Henley. That is something everyone wants to be a part of. I also found a local tannery in Meyerton, which is so convenient and provides a lot more opportunities for the future.
How can people support, order from you, and where do they look for your products?
There is always the option to make an online purchase at www.maranza.store. I can also recommend the website to get an overview of the catalogue and prices. But, if you would like to have a more personal and customized experience, then please contact me on WhatsApp at 0615085151. We can discuss size and what color leather, stitching and hardware you would prefer. It is so much fun and is kind of like a designer experience. Production usually takes a few workdays. I also do a few markets here and there, so people can see the craftsmanship in person, but I like the idea of making a bag for one specific person.
We want to thank Maranza for letting us take a look around her atelier and wish her all the success, find out more at Maranza.store https://maranza.store/