Mission
There are places in the world were time has slowed and simple tasks still pulsate with tradition and ceremony. My goal is to find these places and discover their hidden treasures. Whether battling monsoons, snake-infested territories, or bouts of funny tummy, I hope to create and share products that have a cultural heritage yet function in a modern format.
Myanmar
I started Mr. Merz in November of 2014 after being let go from my first out of college job. At 24, I was lost again. Taking the minute savings I had, as well as the knowledge my former boss imbibed me with, I decided to travel to Myanmar. Amongst the stunning temples, the sweet smell of royal jasmine, and hair raising buddhist chants, I stumbled upon the most beautiful blankets. Embroidered with motifs of fauna, flora, and humanity, the blankets told a story–and gave me a story.
Turkey
Turkey became the next adventure. Spending two months traveling the country, working in bazaars, and stuffing my face with amazing food–I found a means to connect with some of the last hand weaving families in Turkey. A dying art, hand weaving (done on an old style shuttle loom) has quickly become replaced by small factory machines. Working with master weavers Ahmet, Izmet, Murat, Meta, Fuat, and Aziz, I created a line of textiles that carry Turkish Hamam style roots, are amazingly soft, 100% g.o.t.s certified organic, extremely durable, and completely timeless.
Standards
All my products are geared towards fair trade, eco friendly, and sustainable.