On Closing a Chapter

There's no easy way to say this: today I’m writing to share that I’m closing MINNA.

The past 12 years have been a whirlwind of creativity, risk, beauty, and countless challenges. But, wow, what a privilege it has been to do this work. Collaborating with hundreds of incredible artisans, bringing their handmade pieces into so many homes - MINNA has only been possible because of their talent, knowledge, creativity, dedication, and trust.

It’s been such a privilege to learn. To see my work become part of so many lives. To have met and be in community with an inspiring group of creative entrepreneurs. To have “grown up” with this business in a way that feels oddly public, as founders are often expected to do these days.

This work has fulfilled me in ways I can hardly put into words. I live for the creative process: being in the field, learning new textile techniques, exploring new places and crafts, and building relationships. My happiest moments have always been in the workshops.

It's vulnerable to say that lately, the hard parts have outweighed the good, and that I've been deeply unhappy. It’s no secret that small businesses are struggling: how many brands and shops have you seen close in the past two years? The truth is, MINNA has been part of that reality for a while. We’ve done everything we could to adapt, to shift, to hold on. But at a certain point, holding on is no longer sustainable.

Acknowledging when something has run its course is difficult, but there comes a time to give yourself permission to close a chapter. And so I'm trying my best to make sure we close this chapter in a way that honors everyone who has been a part of building MINNA: the artisans, the team, the customers, the community. We’re working to make this transition as smooth as possible, but the reality is, we need your help. If you’ve ever thought about bringing a MINNA piece into your home, now is truly the time.

To every person who has been part of MINNA community over the past 12 years: thank you, my deepest thank you. Your energy, creativity, and excitement brought more to this brand than I could ever put into words. You brought my dream to life.

MINNA has always been a beautiful ecosystem of relationships - a web built on trust, care, and shared values. The unfortunate truth is that I’m no longer sure the current market is built to sustain ethical, relationship-driven businesses like ours. This decision was already underway before the reality of new global tariffs set in, but their impact will only make it harder for the small, values-led businesses we all love to survive - let alone thrive. New systems will need to be created and it's more important than ever to lean into relationships and community.

That said, I still believe that business can be a force for good. I still believe in the artisan sector, and after 12 years, I see its challenges more clearly than ever. I’ll never stop championing this work or the supply chains that consider the human at every level. The sector has so far to go, and the home industry has so much to learn about integrating ethically made goods. I could write an essay - or a book - about this, and, who knows, maybe someday I will.

Now, for the practical details: We’ll be holding final sales over the coming weeks, depending on how long our inventory lasts. Made-to-order pieces will be available until April 15th, after which we’ll close custom orders. Sitewide discounts are already live on the site. Inventory is already very limited so I encourage you to act fast! We're counting on our community to help us close this chapter in the best way possible.

MINNA has shaped so much of who I am. And now I’m looking forward to seeing who I’ll become after. I have a few ideas about what’s next. But I also want to lean into a space of unknowing. After all, MINNA grew out of that very space once. For now, I’m going to hit pause, rest, and step into a new and forever role: being a mom. I’m due at the end of May.

xo
Sara Berks
Founder, Creative Director, and CEO of MINNA

Keep in Touch With Me:
sara@saraberks.com
Follow my art practice and consultancy:
www.saraberks.com