We had the good fortune of connecting with Maia Burke and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Maia, what’s the end goal, career-wise?
My end goal is to have my very own brick and mortar. I would want it to be a collective space in the community that brings creators + artists of all types together. A collective space that supports other local businesses who are passionate about sustainability + take action against unethical practices like fighting fast fashion + mass production. Maybe one day this will come to be, but for now I’ll dream bout it!

What should our readers know about your business?
I started my business in 2020, in the middle of the pandemic. I had just recently bought my first home and buying furniture and decor was almost impossible with all stores shut down. The only stores near me that remained open were thrift stores- so that was what I had to do. I ended up decorating and furnishing my whole house with items from the thrift and facebook marketplace. I ended up buying a few things that wouldn’t fit in my home and after posting them on FBMP they sold in about 20 minutes- this gave me an idea. I started a instagram account selling items I purchased, or from my own home. Eventually this turned into something much bigger. I now curate furniture and decor sourcing from all over the US preventing thousands of items from going to the landfill.

The most important reason I keep this business going is to giving clothing and furniture a second life. Fast fashion is unrealistic and absolutely destroying our environment. Landfills are overflowing. Don’t buy new. Buy secondhand. Do it for the earth.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Must visit places:

Food:
Lady Nomada – Not only is the food delicious the decor and vibes are A+.
Postino – The Bruschetta board with wine cannot be beat.
El Five – Spanish & Eastern Mediterranean small plates & drinks served in a funky, buzzy top-floor penthouse.

Shops:
MADÉ Tattoo & Mercantile – they have beautiful vintage + modern home-goods along with local made jewelry.
Meek Vintage – Beautifully curated shop with vintage, home goods + clothing that you do NOT want to miss out on.
Modern Nomad – A collaboration of the most perfect small business. There is something here for everyone.

Drinks:
El Camino – Nicest staff + most delicious cocktails.
Bardo Coffee – Wheat Ridge
The Broken Cage – Drinks, plants, more drinks more plants. Yes please.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I dedicate this shoutout to my partner Greg Tennant. Without him pushing me to step out of my comfort zone and start this business, I wouldn’t be where I am today! Thank you for all the times I needed your muscle, and words of encouragement to keep going + not give up.

Website: https://freckleandfringe.co/

Instagram: freckleandfringe

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shopfreckleandfringe/

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