Meet Our Retailers: Viand Mercantile

We’re continuing our series highlighting small, independent boutiques, markets, and retailers across the country, and next up is Viand Mercantile.

Located in Portland, Maine, Viand Mercantile is one shop that instantly makes you feel at home. Founder Jenny Bravo has a background in food photography, which makes sense—everything in the shop is about gathering, layering, and creating spaces that feel warm and lived-in. “The word Viand is about the feeling you get when you gather around a table and get the warm and fuzzies,” she says. “That’s the feeling I hope our customers get when they visit us.”

Beyond creating a beautiful space, Jenny loves the community that comes with having a brick-and-mortar store. “It has been such a joy getting to know our customers and meeting our seasonal visitors,” she says. “Above and beyond that, I’ve absolutely loved planning inventory and store installations. The creativity and community drive my joy for sure!”

Her design philosophy embraces layering old with new. “You know how they say ‘high/low’ in fashion? I think the same rule applies to homes with new/vintage,” she says. “Find something new that fits a need in terms of measurements or function, and let vintage add warmth, charm, and character. Don’t be afraid to have fun with your finds!”

Of course, running a shop comes with challenges, from rising costs to navigating an unpredictable market. But Jenny remains focused on what’s ahead. “I hope to create more Viand label products like hardware and custom pillows and bedding,” she shares. “And looking even further, we hope to expand and open new stores in new cities! Eek!”

At the heart of it all, Viand Mercantile is about slowing down and surrounding yourself with things that tell a story. “We live and breathe this life,” Jenny says. “Carrying bespoke goods made in small batches by hand is something we could all use more of.”