Run by power couple Ellen and Andrew Barber, the business has grown into the region’s leader in custom outdoor living solutions.
Written by Kaitlynne Haylock
Photography by Tiffany Bradley
From streets lined with Spanish moss to the sunny weather that, even on its coldest days, makes it hard to stay indoors, Savannah’s environment is one for the books. Husband-and-wife duo Ellen and Andrew Barber at Coastal Canvas Products have spent the past decade adding their creative touch to complement and accessorize Savannah’s outdoor spaces, making them even more irresistible.
Founded in 1975, Coastal Canvas Products manufactures and installs custom shade products for commercial and residential spaces. But the Barbers’ journey as co-owners of Coastal Canvas began in 2012 when they purchased the company from its founder, Glenn Wood.
“Glenn was my next-door neighbor,” says Ellen. “My mom was the one who told Andrew and me that we should buy the business after Glenn announced that he wanted to retire.” Taking over Coastal Canvas Products gave the Barbers a platform to marry their skills — Andrew’s construction and sales background and Ellen’s interior design career. What started as a mom-and-pop operation has evolved into an innovative custom shade and outdoor-living design production facility with a team of over 35 employees.
“Everything we produce is designed and built right here in our Savannah facility — truly start to finish,” says Andrew. “Our production floor brings together metal fabrication, powder coating, sewing, and assembly all under one roof, which lets us maintain complete control over quality and craftsmanship. We’ve invested heavily in state-of-the-art equipment and, more importantly, in skilled people.”
Over the years, Andrew says, the company has embraced new technology, design trends, and product innovations to stay ahead of the curve, while never losing sight of the company’s roots as a family business.
“Seeing that growth has been incredible, and we take a lot of pride in knowing our craftsmanship has complemented Savannah’s timeless architecture,” says Ellen. A recent favorite of hers is the work they did for a waterfront home on the Isle of Hope. Complete with aluminum framing, Sunbrella fabric, and smart automation, the project shows just how far accessories for outdoor living have evolved.
“Having a business and life partner who understands where the other is coming from has allowed us to lean on each other in incredible ways and do our best work,” says Ellen. She admits it’s been a balance they’ve had to perfect over the years, but running Coastal Canvas together has given the couple a seamless rhythm that works not only for the business, but also for their personal lives as they raise their two children.
As they celebrate the business’s 50th anniversary, the Barbers are looking ahead to their legacy of enduring craftsmanship. With a multigenerational team, they’re hoping to expand their brick-and-mortar store to Charleston and Jacksonville and to push innovation through their designs and technology. “We’re investing in new technologies like smart screens and precision cutting systems that are going to make custom designs more sustainable for our clients,” she explains.
There’s even hope that the business and the Barbers’ legacy will stay in the family. The couple’s son worked with Coastal Canvas Products over the summer for his first job and “got the bug,” wanting to continue to work there throughout his high school years. “It would be so fulfilling watching him take over and learn everything from the ground up,” Ellen says. But for now, celebrating every win with her husband and watching her son find a passion in the business is the true prize for her.
As they work toward their expansions, the Barbers’ goal is to continue making outdoor living accessible to homeowners and architects across Savannah. “We want Savannah to know we’re here for them. If there’s a project someone wants to do but isn’t sure how to get it done, that’s why we’re here,” says Ellen. “Everyone can have a beautiful outdoor space.”
