Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Madeline Stewart. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Madeline, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Can you talk to us about a risk you’ve taken – walk us through the story?

The biggest risk I took regarding the business was the desire to ‘push the envelope’ so they say with our product and displays. I wanted to incorporate bold colors and patterns, large floral designs and botanical stems with big furniture and textiles. My goal was and is currently, to bring joy and fun to the mundane. I believe there is an art to layering, and incorporating ALL of the things you love into a space without feeling cluttered or overpowering the room. It’s a delicate balance, and something people don’t expect to see when they walk into the store for the first time. But taking this risk has paid off! Mustard Seed Home won an ART Award, REA Award, and was named Best Home Decor store 3 years in a row. Taking a chance on unique products and bold displays, although scary at first, was beneficial in the long run.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I am a graduate of the Textile College at North Carolina State University with a concentration in Brand Management and Marketing. I have been fortunate to have had multiple opportunities in the furniture and marketing industries. I am currently the Director of Marketing & Merchandising for the Mustard Seed in Blowing Rock, NC. I am also a wife, pageant titleholder, miscarriage survivor, and dog mom!

I specialize in strategic marketing and brand building with an omnichannel focus in the furniture and design industry. My skill set encompasses the following facets: brand management, social media strategy, press relations, print and digital asset creation, print and video advertising, web development, photography and merchandising, storytelling, digital asset management, influencer marketing, as well as experience in independent sales and networking.

Accolades include the 2020 Rising Star in the People issue of Furniture Today and the 2020 WOW Future Leader Award from Withit, a nonprofit organization dedicated to women in the home furnishings industry. I have also been recognized as a 2023 and 2025 Retail Star, a 2024 People to Watch, and a 2025 Trend Advisor in Home Accents Today Magazine. Mustard Seed Home was also the recipient of the 35th ART Award in the Home Decor Category in the East/Atlantic Region, as well as the 74th REA Award in the Home Decor category.

How’d you meet your business partner?

I was working in Hickory, NC, as the Senior Marketing Manager for Sherrill Furniture when my husband, Ian, who I didn’t know at the time, sent me a message asking to take me to dinner. Six months later, we were engaged, and we were married within a year. Shortly after, I took a leap of faith and joined his family’s 33-year-old business, The Mustard Seed. Together, his mom, Danielle, and I opened a second location combining both of our strengths: interior design, fresh flowers, fine furniture, and antiques. Four years later, the store has taken off, and I couldn’t be happier working with my husband Ian and his family.

How did you build your audience on social media?

Social media is a key tool in branding. I launched the company’s Instagram page and rebranded the Facebook account immediately after stepping into the Marketing Director role. I also bought a content creator Canon camera. We have beautiful plants and products, and iPhone photography is excellent, but I wanted to be better than great. We just hit 11k followers on Instagram and have had significant engagement. My key to success is high-resolution photos, paired with reels featuring the people in our business. I’ve found that customers love to see familiar faces discussing the company and its products, as well as showcasing our current selection and highlighting new and exciting products.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.mustardseedblowingrock.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/madelinebrownstewart
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mustardseedmarketandhome
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/madelinebrownfurniture/

Image Credits

Headshot: Joseph Bradley Photo, all other images shot by me!