Today we’d like to introduce you to Stevi McNeil.
Hi Stevi, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
When I purchased my home, I saw all of its beauty and potential even beyond its age and condition. I knew there was something so special about the space and it became my goal to create a home that felt ancestral.
The Mudhaus was a figment of my imagination for a long time. I would look at my then-dated garage, but I could see the final product being a gorgeous studio space.
Converting the garage was a daily visualization, but I didn’t have the time in my routine life until life essentially created the time for me. Building the Mudhaus provided an outlet for my creative voice and was a larger testimony of my resilience.
By mid-2021, I had already experienced a high-risk pregnancy, was on the verge of a separation while managing my full-time career and COVID was rampant.
Everything felt heavy…until I channeled that energy.
The Mudhaus was birthed following my first trip during Covid to a vacation home in Montecito, California. The space flaunted organic materials, focused heavily on balance and natural pieces. It was here that my goal to pursue building the Mudhaus manifested.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
From breaking ground until the arrival of the first guest, the process took about 3 months. The ability to work remote was very beneficial to the process as it eased my work/life balance. I drew my own blueprint, found contractors, and stayed involved throughout the remodel process while being a single mother at this point.
Building the dream wasn’t easy but having a solid support system of family and friends made the difference during that time.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
The Mudhaus is a full-service short-term and long-term rental property space specializing in bringing guests a culturally inclusive and relaxing sensory experience.
Supporting the community, providing a platform for women, small businesses and local artists was a priority for me.
For that reason, the Mudhaus exclusively features local products, supports small black and brown-owned business, artists, and is an **advocate** space for LBGTQ youth. We are constantly seeking new local artist and local products to feature.
The Mudhaus is a direct representation of who I am as a woman, as an artist, as a mother creating a legacy, as a minority business owner and I’m proud to share this.
Alright, so to wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
By day, I’m an IT Director at a local LGBTQ nonprofit agency here in Dallas. Going into IT was unexpected and unplanned, however; there were and still are vast opportunities available in the field. It’s been a rewarding career shift, but not without challenge. The flexibility is unmatched, and I love what I do.
As a black woman in tech, I’m the minority. As a black female IT Director- that is dynamic and rare.
I created the name “Mudhaus” from the phrase “got it out the mud” in mind. It represents one’s ability to break glass ceilings despite adversity. The Mudhaus represents resilience. My career and entrepreneurship journey reflect my own capability to challenge myself and still flourish even when the cards are stacked against me.
The Mudhaus is a reminder of personal strength, finding inner ease, and creating your legacy. It’s a supportive space and you’re always invited to join us at either of our two Dallas-based properties.
The Mainhaus boasts a cultural, comfortable, and relaxing living experience featuring eclectic artwork and handcrafted pieces.
The Studiohaus is an airy artistic studio featuring local photographs, handcrafted pieces, and a cozy vibe.
You can book directly through Airbnb from our website and check out the Mudhaus online boutique (www.themudhaus.com) featuring all things Mudhaus.
Stay Strong, Stay Safe, and Stay with Us.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.themudhaus.com
- Instagram: @themudhaus
- Facebook: @themudhaus
- Furnished Finder: https://www.
furnishedfinder.com/property/ 458334_1 - Linktree: https://linktr.ee/
themudhaus
Image Credits
Taylor Jones
Jazzella McKesl
The Mudhaus
The Mainhaus
The Studiohaus
