Check Out Lindsey Hufnagel’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Lindsey Hufnagel. They and their team shared their story with us below:

Lindsey Hufnagel, originally hailing from Calgary, Alberta, Canada, and now residing in Venice, California, has embarked on a remarkable journey with her fiancé, Amine Ben Khayi. The story unfolds three years ago in Morocco, where Lindsey was on a costume design venture for a feature film. It was in this enchanting setting that she crossed paths with Amine. Their love story blossomed, leading to a partnership not only in life but also in the creation of the House of Ben Khayi.

The venture was officially born during Lindsey’s recent visit to Morocco, where the couple decided to turn their shared passion for the handmade designs and textiles crafted by Berber women into a business. A crucial step was establishing a direct connection with a co-op working with these skilled artisans. Thus, the House of Ben Khayi came into existence, deriving its name from Amine’s surname, signifying “Son of a Brother” in the Moroccan language Darija.

More than just a business, the House of Ben Khayi is described as a labor of love. Lindsey and Amine curate a collection of handmade Moroccan treasures that will range from traditional clothing to home decor, currently focusing on hand-selected one-of-a-kind Moroccan rugs and pillows while also focusing on building their collection of custom-made-to-order designs. Their mission is to not only showcase exquisite craftsmanship but also to share the rich cultural heritage of Morocco. The name reflects the profound connection to family and heritage, and the venture is presented as a magical journey where creativity knows no bounds, and each piece narrates a unique story.

It’s evident that House of Ben Khayi is more than a retail endeavor; it’s a celebration of artistry, culture, and the beautiful connection between two individuals who share a deep love for Morocco and its traditions. The bio sets the stage for customers to join this magical journey and experience the joy that comes with owning a piece of Moroccan heritage.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
House of Ben Khayi is a new venture for us, and I am sure we will hit some bumps along the way, but for now we will focus on building our collection and reaching the LA market.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Lindsey Hufnagel, a native of Calgary, Alberta, Canada, embarked on a creative journey that took her from the picturesque landscapes of her hometown to the bustling streets of New York City over a decade ago. Her passion for art and design led her to pursue a career in the industry.

Hufnagel honed her skills at the renowned Parson’s School of Art and Design, where she earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Fashion Design. Early in her career, she gained valuable experience through notable internships, including a stint with the Broadway show “The Pirate Queen,” where she had the privilege of working under the guidance of Tony Award winner Costume Designer Martin Pakledinaz. This experience ignited her interest in costume design.

Alongside her exploration of costume design, Hufnagel embarked on a parallel journey, crafting her own distinct line of handbags. Under her brand “Horse+Nail,” she established herself in the vibrant and competitive landscape of New York City’s fashion scene. Her entrepreneurial spirit led her to open a Vintage Shop in Venice, California, adding a unique dimension to her diverse portfolio.

Despite her success in the world of fashion, Lindsey found herself drawn back to her roots in costume design. This shift led her to work on several award-winning shorts and feature films, showcasing her talent and versatility. In recent years, she has concentrated her efforts in the realm of television, contributing as a Costume Buyer for notable productions such as Barry Season 4 and The Old Man Season 2.

Lindsey’s journey is a testament to her multifaceted talents, seamlessly blending the worlds of fashion and costume design. With a rich background in both industries, she continues to leave her mark on the creative landscape, bringing her unique vision to life in various artistic endeavors.

What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
Los Angeles, and especially Venice, has become my sanctuary away from the hustle of Manhattan. The ocean breeze, palm trees swaying, and those breathtaking sunsets are like a daily dose of serenity. It’s a stark contrast to the concrete jungle I used to navigate. The allure of California’s diverse landscape, from the desert to the mountains and the endless coastline, has captured my heart. There’s a sense of freedom in having such a variety of natural wonders within reach.

Now, let’s talk about the downsides – LA traffic. It’s a daily challenge, a puzzle I navigate to get to the places I love. But amidst the honking horns, I’ve found my oasis in Venice.

Venice, with its walkable streets and vibrant local scene, has become my haven. It’s where I escape the traffic, trading car horns for the soothing sound of ocean waves. I’ve found my sweet spot. Venice has given me the airy beachside lifestyle I craved when leaving the city that never sleeps.

Pricing:

• Pillows 65+
• Rugs 500+

Contact Info:

• Website: www.houseofbenkhayi.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/houseofbenkhayi_
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/houseofbenkhayi
• Other: www.pintrest.com/houseofbenkhayi

Image Credits
Photography by Lindsey Hufnagel