Hello Friends!
Can you believe it's been 10 years since I started this little business?! What began as a way for me to get back to working with my hands after long days at the computer has turned into something beyond my wildest dreams – now supporting four employees! Over the past decade, I've learned so much and feel incredibly grateful to call this my job. I've met some amazing people along the way, leaned on friends during tough times, and had the support of incredible employees and family who encouraged me to pursue my dreams and build my business to what it is today.
As we celebrate 10 years of Melanie Abrantes Designs, I'm filled with gratitude for each and every one of you who's supported us. Whether you've bought something from our shop, followed us on social media, joined a class, or simply told a friend about our work, your support means everything to us. I wouldn't be here today if you didn't believe in me, thank you.
Here's to many more years of making memories together. Thank you, thank you, thank you!
xoxo,
Melanie Abrantes
Owner, Designer, & Maker
1. Bud Vases as our First Product, 2014
It all started with a simple idea and a lot of passion. Our very first product, the Bud Vase, captured hearts and set the stage for the incredible journey ahead.
2. First Craft Show at West Coast Craft, Dec 2013
We made our debut at the West Coast Craft show in December 2013, showcasing our budding collection of handcrafted goods to the world for the very first time.
3. Our First Book, Carve, 2017
I wrote my first book Carve, A Simple Guide to Whittling back in 2017! It still is one of our best selling products on our site and has reached 1,000's of carvers all over the world to teach them how to carve!
4. Marais Vase Debut in Paris Design Week, 2018
5. London Design Week, 2019
I attended London Design Fair to showcase my work with the Design Milk Booth. Our Marais vases were even featured on the front page of the London's Evening Standard for London Design Week!
6. Ashtray Collaboration with Houseplant & Seth Rogen, 2020
7. Mel’s Carving Club, 2021
Our best-selling and beloved subscription box was born in 2021 after so many people were stuck at home and yearning to learn a new hobby! Mel's Carving Club is now on it's third year and better than ever! (June sign up's for 2024 Fall are coming up!!)
8. Josef and Anni Collection, 2022
Our most complicated products ever designed is our Anni and Josef Collection. I am incredibly proud of these pieces and love the way they push the boundaries of cork and wood.
9. My First Art Show, Third Culture: Childhood Foods from the Diaspora, 2023
I was incredibly lucky to have my first solo art show last year at Rare Device! I showcased 8 different foods from my childhood, carved from wood. Each one took hours to create and were a labor of love. I was deeply proud of this project!
10. MAD Studio/House in Portugal, 2024
