With the showroom opening just weeks away, I’m having so many emotions ranging from extreme excitement and anticipation to complete freak out mode as the to-do list in my head grows longer by the second. However, the overall sentiment is that deep down I know that at just eight years old, Vintage Refined is still at its beginning stage and we’re just getting started! By having this showroom, it opens so many doors for new opportunities, new collaborations, and new relationships. There’s been a lot going on behind the scenes and I want to share with you some of these exciting developments.
In addition to the showroom being a place to feature Vintage Refined furniture, we have also teamed up with local artisans and will carry their brands in our showroom. This includes artists, hardware makers and textile companies. The idea is that the showroom will be a place where clients can discover new brands, get inspired by unique finds, and support small local businesses.
Today I want to introduce to you one of the textile brands we will be carrying in our showroom, Merinda Studio. Established in 2019 by two women, Erin & Mindy, the brand evokes a preppy yet sophisticated feel. Combine Mindy’s business background with an MBA from Kellogg School of Business at Northwestern and Erin’s photography background, these two ladies make a dynamite duo!
Inspired by Erin’s photography background, the patterns are based on her photographs of nature and travel. From seascapes to landscapes to digital kaleidoscopes and everything in between, they take the beauty they see in the natural world and create patterns for wallpaper, textiles and home decor products.
With Erin’s expertise in digital editing, they are able to customize their designs to meet their client’s color and scale specifications, creating a truly unique end product. From upholstery to wallpaper to artwork, all of their products evoke a truly unique and curated feel. Stay tuned, we have our very own Vintage Refined x Merinda Studio line launching soon!
Teaming up with several U.S. based manufacturers, their products are produced with sustainability in mind. From sourcing materials to printing and shipping, they look for methods that limit waste, use eco-friendly materials and reduce their carbon footprint.
Over the past several months, I’ve had the chance to know these ladies on a more personal level. I can attest that their personalities are just as fun and unique as their designs. They have been such a delight to work with and every time we meet, I leave inspired by their talent and creativity. I am thrilled to be carrying their line in our showroom and can’t wait for you to see their products in person!
I’ll wrap this up with a couple words from Erin and Mindy.
“We are thrilled to be a part of Ashley's new showroom space in Gin Alley! We've been a fan of Vintage Refined for a while. From her creative eye and love of color to her ability to revive vintage furniture and make something entirely new. Ashley's been so fun and inspiring to partner with this year. She has built this amazing company with a focus on customization, sustainability and local artisans - all things we strive for at MERINDA. We can't wait to collaborate more this year!”
For more information, check out their website and follow them on Instagram.