MFEO feature & GIVEAWAY!

Today's Shop Small Saturday Showcase feature comes from MFEO, a husband and wife duo that combines that retro, mid-century modern vibe with natural materials.  Can you tell that this is my style to a T?  Yes, I absolutely adore every single item that they make.  Seriously everything, which includes lighting, tables, seating, beds, mirrors, accessories, and serveware.

In fact, speaking of the serveware, MFEO is going to be giving away a 4 pack of bottle stops to one of my lucky readers!  That will be at the end of the post, but before you enter, make sure to check out the interview!  Find out how a favorite rom-com inspired their name and the one-of-a-kind materials that started their journey into making beautifully designed pieces.

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Tell me a little bit about yourself!

Soon after meeting, we dreamt of launching a small, design-based business. A love of mid-century modern paired with a shared interest in living a more sustainable lifestyle, we decided to create a furniture and housewares collection. Stars quickly aligned for the new venture when my grandfather offered us his 100+ year old barn as a material resource. MFEO was born, a joint effort to handcraft sustainably sourced materials into heirloom quality pieces for the home.


Where did the name of your store come from?

MFEO is an acronym for ‘Made for Each Other.’ It’s originally a quote from the film, Sleepless in Seattle. We liked the idea that each piece we make is destined for a certain home.

Why did you start making goods for MFEO?

I started designing and building furniture about two years ago. I originally studied graphic design, multimedia and animation. Ten years later I realized that my career had veered down a less creative path and I found myself in advertising. So I decided to simply start over and reconnect with my creative side. I wanted to do something very hands-on and provide a product that people could love for years to come.


What is your favorite item?

Our favorite item is our Rohe club chair. When we originally salvaged what we believe to be a vintage Modernica or Mies van der Rohe chair, we were in love with the beautiful chrome base, but the upholstery was in tatters. We ended up replacing the entire seat and back with the barn wood and it is without question our trophy piece. We will be sad when it sells one day, but are happy to enjoy it in the meantime.

What is your most popular item?

Currently, the most popular item in our shop are our Troika mirrors.


Where do you get the inspiration for your work?

Aesthetically speaking, we draw a lot of influence from the mid-century era. Clean lines and minimal shapes have always appealed to us.

Inspiration as a broader term comes from everywhere for us. Our fellow makers in the community are great source of motivation and support. Also, spending time outdoors is crucial for us to remain balanced and manage the stress involved with managing our endeavor. It reminds us why we’re striving for sustainable manufacturing in the first place.

What makes your store unique?

Our designs offer a unique juxtaposition by blending modern lines with rustic and natural materials.


What is the toughest part about making your goods/your artistic process?

Time management is probably the most challenging aspect. It can get extremely overwhelming making all the product in addition to the other daily tasks necessary to run small business.

Do you take custom orders?

Yes, we definitely offer and have done custom work before.  We’ve made several custom tables, media consoles, framed mirrors and even condiment caddies for a restaurant client.  Depending on the request, we work with our clients to put together a budget and timeline that works for everyone.


Where can I see more of your work and buy a gift?

Website:  wearemfeo.com
Etsy:  etsy.com/shop/wearemfeo
Instagram:  @wearemfeo
Facebook:  facebook.com/wearemfeo
Twitter:  twitter.com/wearemfeo
Pinterest:  pinterest.com/wearemfeo

Are you going to be at any shows soon, so I can see your work in person and say hello?

We sell at the Melrose Trading Post from time to time. Please visit our site for event updates.


Anything else to add?

Support your local makers!

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Can't you see why I am MFMFEO (Made For MFEO)?  I'm sure a bunch of you are too now!  I seriously want one of everything for the new house, starting with the chair... and the bookends... and any of the lighting...  It may just be easier if I just add everything to my wishlist in one fell swoop.

Now to the giveaway!  To win a 4 pack of the bottle stops (pictured below) enter in the widget below.  Some of the entries are easy one-click options, and make sure to come back daily to earn extra bonus entries.

Good luck!

MFEO