Rediscovering Buffalo: MiMO Décor
Refurbishing Vintage Furniture on Niagara Street

By Kate Bartlett

MiMO was founded by Buffalo native Jessica Moloney and her father/cofounder Joseph Buscaglia in 2017.  With a degree in Art History and years of business experience along with a creative background, she developed a greater interest in interior design. She sought to open a shop as a creative outlet, as well as a source of revenue. “I’d always dreamed of owning my own business,” says Jessica. “I became more interested in interior design, particularly furniture, throughout my years of experience, that it became clear this was the path for me.”

Jessica manages the collection while overseeing all retail, online and logistical operations. Her father, Joseph Buscaglia has been a vital asset to MiMO over the years as a lifetime master of craftmanship and a shop owner himself. “I’ve been fortunate to have my father’s experience and guidance building the business together and to have him by my side; MiMO would not be what it is today without him.”

The name MiMO evokes the style of mid-century modern, which is what Jessica’s vision for the shop focuses on. “We sought to bring refined mid-century pieces to the Buffalo market, offering high-end, modern pieces that make a statement,” says Jessica. “Furniture is a great reflection of one’s style, and a great way to refresh a home without a huge renovation. Our pieces are very high-quality and pair well with a wide variety of styles to cater to anyone’s taste.”

   The first shop opened on Hertel Ave in North Buffalo 8 years ago, showcasing beautifully refurbished vintage furniture pieces. Jessica and her father work diligently to make sure each piece is refinished up to their high standards, sometimes better than their factory quality. ““We take our time and pay attention to detail because it’s worth doing on a premium quality piece to retain or increase its value” says Jessica.

   While Jessica once searched for items at estate sales, many people now come to her directly with individual pieces, personal collections and estates. “I still source vintage pieces on my own, but many come to us as they are downsizing, etc. We are proud to have built a name for ourselves as the first in the area to actually restore the items we bring in and include that in the price of the piece. And those we buy from know the item will be in good hands.”

   MiMO opened a second location on Niagara Street 2 years ago, offering a more spacious showroom, along with a large on-site workshop. Around this time, MiMO also expanded to offer online ordering with an expansive catalog on their website. “Our vintage items are one of a kind,” says Jessica. “With our revamped website we were able to reach collectors and homeowners across the country, greatly increasing our reach. This platform allows everybody to shop with MiMo décor, no matter where they’re located. It’s also much more organized.” Online shopping also allows shoppers the opportunity to see each piece in isolation and styled individually, rather than in a more crowded showroom. 

   Not only does the Niagara location offer more space, but Jessica enjoys being a part of this tight-knit community. “It’s been great being a part of the Niagara Street revitalization,” says Jessica. “It’s conveniently located with easy access to downtown, yet it still has that small neighborhood feel.”

Jessica takes great pride in her work, and finds refinishing vintage pieces extremely satisfying. Her favorite thing about the process is seeing her work, finished pieces, in people’s homes. “It’s an art, in that each piece truly tells a story, and I’m honored to be a part of that. It’s invigorating to give these vintage pieces new life, and it’s incredibly satisfying when the pieces all finally fit together, and our customers find what they’re looking for.

   For more information visit www.mimo-decor.com and follow on Instagram for updates and events. Contact Jessica via email info@mimo-decor.com.