I’ve always loved retail, design, and creating. My first job was wrapping holiday gifts at a local small business. This was quickly followed by an early effort at entrepreneurship called Preppy Proprietors - we created and sold hand-painted and ribbon barrettes (anyone remember those?) Another business endeavor, Mittens by Mo, eventually folded due to high labor costs (my own.)
Given that I couldn’t figure out how to make money selling my own creations, it seemed wise to switch to selling someone else’s. So after college, I spent 4 years working with women’s apparel manufacturer and retailer CP Shades, eventually overseeing their store operations. I dreamed of having my own business, in apparel or home furnishings. But instead, I ended up taking a more conservative path, getting a MBA, and working in high tech marketing for the next 20 years.
Yet somehow, over all that time, I haven’t been able to quit being creative. Over the years I’ve designed, advised, renovated, and remodeled homes and apartments. I’ve scoured stores looking for pieces to repurpose and refinish. And I’ve covertly filled up our basement with vintage finds, decor, and antique books - boxes of things meant to eventually find new homes, serve as inspiration, or become that ever-elusive, perfect, unique gift.
I’m excited to share stories of home design and renovating. I’m excited to encourage individual creativity. And I’m excited to showcase sources and products that inspire giving. Maybe it will be that perfect item for yourself and your shelf. Or maybe it will be a perfect gift for someone who seems impossible to surprise. Our goal is all about feeling great. Feeling great about the design in our lives, the spaces we create, and the things we give.
Welcome to Addison West.
Mo Bonner
Mo Bonner