Today we’d like to introduce you to Haya Gilinski
Haya, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My journey really took off when I was sent home from college due to COVID-19. Like many, I found myself stuck at home with limited options and a lot of time on my hands. With the same meals being served day in and day out, I felt the need to shake things up and make our dining experiences more enjoyable and unique.
I partnered with Jeanette Fallenbaum, a talented party planner whos companies name is JF Party Planner, and together we launched Meza by JH, a tableware company that specializes in charger plate covers. Our aim was to provide a way to give each meal a different look and feel, enhancing the dining experience. We focused on creating sustainable and reusable products, offering beautiful designs that not only elevate meals but also promote environmental mindfulness.
As we began sharing our vision with family and friends, the positive feedback encouraged us to take it further. Today, I’m proud to be part of a venture that combines our love for design and food, allowing us to connect with our community meaningfully while making a positive impact.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
My journey was not entirely smooth. Initially, we faced significant challenges in finding the right fabrics for our charger plate covers. We wanted to ensure that the materials were not only aesthetically pleasing but also sustainable. This led us to reach out to various fabric stores and fashion companies to inquire about purchasing their deadstock fabrics.
Once we secured some fabrics, we had to go through a lot of trial and error to determine which materials washed well and maintained their appearance after cleaning. It was a learning curve, but each setback taught us more about our products and what our customers would appreciate.
In figuring out our manufacturing parter, we encountered a lot of rejection along the way—many places said no. However, we were lucky to find a like-minded talented tailor, who allowed us to get started with this exciting project.
All in all, we have had a very rewarding journey and we were able to overcome the obstacles along the way. As difficult as those experiences may have been, it shaped us into the company we are today.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Meza by JH?
At Meza by JH, we believe that every table tells a story. We specialize in curating beautiful, high-quality tableware that elevates both everyday dining experiences and special occasions. Our pieces are designed to blend style with function, allowing our customers to create tablescapes that are as memorable as the moments shared around them.
What sets us apart is our commitment to sustainability and style. Our table covers are made primarily from deadstock fabrics, reducing waste and giving new life to materials that might otherwise go unused. These covers are not only eco-friendly but are also designed for versatility—you can switch them out effortlessly to match any occasion or season.
We’re passionate about craftsmanship, and we source our pieces to meet high standards of quality and durability. More than just products, we provide inspiration—whether it’s for a cozy brunch or a grand holiday gathering.
At Meza by JH, we take pride in our close-knit community of customers who value elegance, creativity, and connection. We’re here to help them create beauty and warmth for any occasion, offering not just tableware but the means to celebrate life’s moments in style.
Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
One of the most inspiring books I’ve come across is The Woman I Wanted to Be by Diane von Furstenberg. As a woman in business, I’ve faced many of the challenges she describes, and her journey has been both validating and motivating. I love how she weaves together her personal and professional experiences, showing how it’s possible to balance ambition with a fulfilling personal life. Her story is a reminder that you can achieve success on your own terms.
One of my favorite resources is The Business of Fashion podcast. It’s perfect for listening to while I’m walking or in the car, and it’s full of insider information on the fashion world. They feature insights from top industry professionals, covering everything from trends and business strategies to career advice. It’s a great way to stay updated and get tips directly from experts who’ve been successful in fashion.
Pricing:
- $10 – Meza cover
- $2 – charger plate
- $3 – napkin ring
- The idea is that the first purchase you buy both the charger and the cover and the second purchase you buy just the cover and you change them at home!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Cuanto.app/meza
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/meza_jh/
