Meet Nataly Neuman and Margie Sernik Stein | Co-Founders of NAMAR

We had the good fortune of connecting with Nataly Neuman and Margie Sernik Stein and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Nataly Neuman and Margie Sernik Stein, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
During Margie’s first time out to dinner during the pandemic, she couldn’t help but think “how can I trust that these utensils that I’m using are actually being cleaned and sanitized?” As she was leaving the restaurant, she saw plastic forks and spoons left behind on a grass area where people had just finished eating take-out. This is when the idea of NAMAR was born – an easy, on-the-go, personal and sustainable cutlery set that you can take with you ANYWHERE.

Nataly, with a business background and a Masters in Psychology has always had a deep concern for the environment. Once she heard the idea, she immediately took action. From creating the design to developing the branding, Nataly made sure that NAMAR would become a product that is compact enough to fit in your pocket and impactful enough to make a difference.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
We started working on our business, NAMAR, amidst the pandemic in August 2020. Margie, following months of quarantine in New York, finally braved going out to dinner in June 2020 and discovered that she felt admittedly uncomfortable using the silverware that was already set on the table. She couldn’t help but think “how do I know that this has been sanitized? How do I know that someone passing by didn’t sneeze on it?” After an uncomfortable dinner, as she left the restaurant, she saw countless plastic utensils left on the grass/sidewalk from people who had taken out their meals. From this experience, from the fear of germs and fear of our planet falling apart, she thought about an easy, on-the-go, personal and sustainable cutlery set that you can take with you ANYWHERE. Margie quickly told Nataly (best friend turned business partner) about the idea and Nataly immediately hit the ground running. From branding, to manufacturing – Nataly sourced the product and created our website and social platforms. What sets NAMAR apart from other on-the-go sustainable cutlery sets is two-fold: it’s compact and small enough to fit in your pocket and is a high-end product designed to make sustainability feel chic. Launching NAMAR hasn’t necessarily been easy, but from all the lessons we have learned along the way, it has been completely worth it. We want the world to understand how important it is to stop using plastic and to care for our environment. Our product is made to help us get one step closer to minimizing the spread of germs and reducing waste to preserve our planet.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
We both love creating itineraries for people who visit so this is an easy one for us! Miami has truly grown and “matured” over the last 10 years and the list can go on and on! It’s a cultural melting pot of incredible food, music and don’t get us started on this weather. For a week-long trip, we would recommend staying in Miami Beach but splitting your time between a few different areas:
Stay at the Sagamore (it’s also where Nataly recently got married). They have the best staff and there is always a fun event at the hotel. Spend time at the beach during the day and walking around South of 5th and the boardwalk. For lunch, go to La Sandwicherie – best sandwiches in town and the vibes are very relaxing! Other places to eat in South Beach would be Malibu Farm and Abba TLV Kitchen. At night, end up at The Standard for a drink and the best views.
Another area we would recommend is Wynwood and the Design District. From exploring the different art galleries in Wynwood and the stores in the Design District, you’re bound to have the best day. In the area, we recommend eating at Mandolin and after, going to Lagniappe for wine.
Another place that’s a must in our opinion is Calle 8. There is so much culture (and coffee) and one of our favorite places to go out dancing – Ball & Chain.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Margie: I’ll have to dedicate this one to my husband. He has always pushed me in a direction that has allowed me to grow. From his support and love, he has acted not only as a husband, but as a mentor. When it came to launching NAMAR, with so much going on (my full-time job, deciding to leave our apartment in New York City, becoming new parents and living through a pandemic) – I wasn’t sure launching a business was the right idea. My husband’s encouragement was what made me decide to ultimately take a leap of faith.

Nataly: Shout out to my husband! He’s taught me that every day is another opportunity to learn something new, read a new book, earn another degree or certificate and just keep striving towards self improvement. He has also taught me that failure is nothing to be afraid of, but is essential for success. His own hard work and perseverance inspires me and pushes me forward every day! Shout out to Margie because without her idea, NAMAR wouldn’t be a thought in my own mind. I am thankful that we have the opportunity to learn from one another every day and use our unique strengths to push our brand forward! Shoutout to our friends and family who have shown tremendous support for our brand. Who have bought, shared, promoted and connected us to so many new people. We are lucky to have our network!

Website: shopnamar.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/namar_eco/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/namar-eco/about/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NAMAR-100479981880240

Image Credits
NAMAR Eco