Alexandrian Native Olivia Massie Shares Her Inspiration For Textile Line: Maison Venu
Nothing makes me happier than when someone I know starts her own business. I’ve always thought my next job/career will be helping people figure out how to hang their own shingle. When I heard the wonderful Olivia Massie was starting her own textiles business, I literally teared up. It’s extra special when you’ve known that person since they were young and watched them grow up.
I was always impressed by Olivia’s love of travel. I wasn’t brave enough at 18 to travel outside of the country, especially on my own. Well, Olivia had that thirst for adventure along with an incredibly strong work ethic. These two traits combined often lead someone on the path to entrepreneurship. When Olivia started Maison Venu, I knew it would be successful, but the speed at which she is growing is truly remarkable. She was just featured in Southern Living! That is not an easy accomplishment but it’s not surprising.
Photo: Maison Venu in Southern Living
Her textile collection is beautiful and I hope you will see it for yourself in person this week. Olivia will be at The Hive on Thursday, November 9 from 12 to 7 pm and Friday 10 am to 4 pm. It’s perfect if you need to get some early holiday shopping done, or are hosting this year and need new table linens.
It’s been more than a few years since I’ve spoken to Olivia, and I’m so happy we were able to catch up recently, read more below.
About Olivia
Where did you grow up? I was lucky enough to grow up in Alexandria.
What is your favorite thing about Alexandria? The small town-feel, while being minutes from a large city. Alexandria's tight-knit community is one that has remained a part of me no matter where I've moved on to in life. I am so grateful for that.
Where did you go to college? University of Georgia.
What inspired you to study abroad? I actually didn't study abroad, but took a gap semester before starting at UGA and traveled to India, Fiji and New Zealand. I was eager and curious to explore parts of the world I'd never been to. My introduction to the textiles world while spending time in India stole my heart. I approached college with the intention of finding a job in India after school…and that's exactly what happened!
What created your love of textiles? A combination of my love for art history and interiors. Textiles are part of everything we do in life - what we wear, how we live - and as a result are the background of our memories in life. As I started designing Maison Venu's first collection, I considered the textiles and designs that were part of my upbringing. My grandmother had wallpaper in her kitchen and an informal designing space that is the background of so many memories I shared with her. When I think of her, I imagine that wallpaper behind her. I hope to design pieces that hold this kind of sentimental value and are a thoughtful, unique detail to one's home.
What is your favorite pattern so far? Our Tuileries pattern. It was my breakthrough moment in designing our first collection. Every colorway I created I loved more than the last! I’m also in love with our new Starburst napkin for this holiday season. The embroidery technique resembles how a Suzani, a well known Uzbekistan textile, is created. I love using ancient techniques to interpret my original designs and motifs.
So, I am someone that can't set a beautiful table. My mom can, and of course my southern grandma could. If you were me, would you start with a tablecloth or place mats? Or how does a beginner start building a tablescape? Napkins are a perfect way to start building a tablescape. It's an easy way to add color and personal style to your table. My next thought is usually flowers and what vessels I might use. This is where you could add something special or inherited. I think about what compliments the colors on the table and what's in season. I love a table with a lot of color - you can probably gather that from my designs! Sometimes even contrasting colors. I would then assess what other elements to pull in for glassware.
For tablecloths versus placemats, I'd say placemats are a little more every day and tablecloths are special. Tablecloths are a larger commitment but they really pull together a table for a special occasion.
Come meet Olivia and see her amazing textiles for yourself:
