We recently connected with Stevi McNeil and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Stevi, thanks for joining us today. What was it like going from idea to execution? Can you share some of the backstory and some of the major steps or milestones?

The journey of creating the Mudhaus began with a vision to transform the garage into a cozy and aesthetic studio space. Despite seeking out contractors for years, none understood the vision. However, after booking a tangible example of a small detached studio surrounded by lush vegetation, my vision was solidified.

I returned home, sketched, researched, and planned, using the structure of my home as the basis for creating the foundation of the first space under the Mudhaus portfolio. After finding the best contractor, negotiating the price, and investing my own funds, we set out on the journey of creating the studio.

After the space was converted, I used my interior design skills to furnish it and reached out to local artists and vendors. Eventually, I went back to the drawing board and converted the main house into another short and long-term space.

Today, the Mudhaus, as a company and brand, has a studio, several fully furnished short-term properties, and is community safe haven. The process of going from idea to execution required a lot of patience, determination, and perseverance. The key was to remain intuitively connected to the vision, do thorough research, and invest personal funds to make the vision a reality. The Mudhaus serves as a testament to the power of creative vision and the value of hard work and commitment.

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

During the day, I work as an IT Director at an agency based in Dallas, TX. Pursuing a career in IT was not initially planned and it’s been a rewarding yet interesting experience. Still, I have found it quite fitting as it has given me more freedom and resources to pursue my entrepreneurial dreams, including the creation of the Mudhaus.

Being in the tech space, I have had plenty of opportunities to utilize my design skills to create databases, scripts, forms, etc.. It has been an awesome experience to translate those skills into architectural and interior designing. Creating the Mudhaus provided me with the opportunity to use and hone those skills. Through this process, I discovered another passion for designing spaces.

As a proud parent to my 3-year-old daughter, Mecca James, she is at the heart of all of my plans and designs. Mecca motivates me to continue building and growing in both my personal and professional paths. In fact, she is my little design assistant, and is never shy when providing input and feedback.

Being a parent has inspired me to create spaces with her comfort in mind, especially due to her sensory sensitivities. It’s important to me that the Mudhaus provides a welcoming, safe, and comfortable environment for all guests.

The Mudhaus brand represents the essence of afro-essentialism. Our spaces are all about balance, texture, and feel. From the moment you step inside one of our properties, you’ll feel a unique sense of harmony between modern and vintage elements. We’ve carefully curated our interiors with handcrafted pieces to provide a warm and inviting atmosphere that reflects our commitment to honoring blackness while embracing contemporary design. At the Mudhaus, we believe that spaces should be both functional, breathable and beautiful, and our brand reflects that philosophy.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

Building the Mudhaus was an emotional journey that provided a creative outlet and completely tested my resilience. In mid-2021, I faced several challenges, being post-partum after a high-risk pregnancy, being away from family, and the rampant COVID pandemic. Everything felt dark and difficult until I channeled that energy into the Mudhaus.

I am most proud of of bringing my vision to life despite so many hardships. It required effort, discipline, endurance, and focus, which made this accomplishment more significant, especially considering my ADHD diagnosis.

Through parenthood, my career, and entrepreneurship, I have learned to challenge myself and thrive even when the odds are not in my favor. Giving up or not starting would have certainly been the easier option, but I was driven by the desire to channel and create.

The Mudhaus serves as a reminder of my personal strength, a place where I can find inner peace, and a testament to creating a lasting impact. It’s a supportive and inviting space.

How did you put together the initial capital you needed to start your business?

To fund my business, I relied solely on my own savings. The name “got it out the mud” reflects my journey of relying on myself for the means.

Towards the end of the project, when funds got a little tight, I capitalized off my crypto investments.

Looking ahead, I plan to continue expanding the Mudhaus portfolio. Though, I might rely more on other resources such as grants and other investment tools this time around.

Contact Info:

• Website: Www.themudhaus.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themudhaus/
• Other: https://linktr.ee/themudhaus

Image Credits
Kristen Gray Jazzella McKeel