Is there anything more exciting than discovering a new decor brand that matches your aesthetic? A colorful and portable lamp, a perfectly patterned pillow, a bench in the shape of butter… Dare me to one-up that feeling? It’s meeting the designers and makers behind these brands. Hearing about the why’s and how’s. Talking shop. Itching the design scratch. Consider this post as an ode to meeting new design friends who make incredible things, which happened to us over and over again at Shoppe Object in NYC earlier this month. We’d like to introduce you to a few of those new design friends below by sharing a bit about their businesses.
Walking up to Wolfum’s booth was a treat to the eyes. Wolfum, launched in 2011, brings a modern twist to home decor with a nod to vintage design and a focus on sustainability. Known for its bold prints and eco-friendly materials, the brand offers heirloom-quality tabletop and home goods—all handcrafted in Los Angeles. Wolfum’s unique technique of printing directly on wood sets them apart, blending traditional craftsmanship with innovative design. Their soft goods are made from recycled PET bottles combined with organic cotton, while their wood products use sustainably sourced materials. Wolfum is all about creating vibrant, lasting pieces that make you stop and admire.
We had the pleasure of meeting Jesse Hamerman at Shoppe Object, and hearing the story behind Beginner Ceramics was just as inspiring as the pieces themselves. Jesse started Beginner Ceramics in March 2021 after reconnecting with clay—a medium he hadn’t touched in 21 years but quickly rediscovered his passion for. With over two decades of experience collaborating on large-scale sculptures (we’re talking everything from metal to airplanes!), Jesse decided to channel all that creative energy into ceramics. By June 2022, he took the leap and made ceramics his full-time gig. Each piece, hand-shaped with joy and curiosity in Brooklyn, reflects his love for form and the thrill of approaching art with a beginner’s mindset.
Evangeline hails proudly from the state of Maine. Maine’s natural beauty often goes unnoticed, but for Ben Ray, a native Mainer, it’s home. After a decade working in the textile industry and traveling the world, Ben returned to Maine to launch Evangeline, a brand inspired by the state’s wild beauty and resilience. Each piece is thoughtfully woven to capture a bit of Maine’s essence— wild, resilient, warm; designed to be cherished and used daily.
We had the pleasure of meeting the team from Areaware at Shoppe Object, and if you’re in the design world, you’ve likely heard their name. Their philosophy? Everyday objects should spark joy and be as playful as they are functional. Areaware collaborates with independent designers—both industry icons and emerging talents—to create unique, artful pieces that add a touch of charm to your home. Their designs aren't just meant to be used—they’re meant to be treasured.
We had a heartwarming moment meeting a talented mother-daughter booth duo who—surprise!—happen to be part of the Spoak family. There’s nothing like connecting with fellow Spoak members IRL! Nella Lighting, created by Caitlyn Campanella, began in 2023 with the mission of bringing playful, planet-friendly decor into homes everywhere. Caitlyn founded Nella while studying Furniture Design and used her industry knowledge to create customizable, high-quality lighting. Their collection of bold, modular table lamps is pure joy. Plus, they prioritize sustainability by using compostable, plant-based materials—a win for both your space and the planet. Based in Charleston, SC, and made in North America, Nella Lighting is a radiant example of thoughtful design in action.
We’re always expanding our design friend circle, and we want your business to be a part of it! Click here to become a Spoak Brand Partner and get your products in front of thousands of shoppers.
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