Minca creates better blankets that go beyond the call of duty

When it comes to adding accoutrements to one’s home, it doesn’t get much better than a blanket.

From providing a practical element of warmth, to upping the overall style of a space, a great blanket or throw is pretty much always a worthwhile investment.

And now, there’s a cool new Vancouver brand that’s making the decision to acquire a chic new piece that much easier. Called Minca, the company offers a curated selection of blankets that merge the fashion-function element seamlessly. Brooke Wells, the brand’s founder, chatted with Postmedia News about creating better blankets, and what makes Minca unique.

Q When and why did you start Minca?

A I started Minca last fall. I’d had the idea for a long time but it took some soul searching to get it off the ground. My boyfriend and I gave ourselves a break from the corporate hustle, and went travelling in South America for a few months. After working 9-to-5 jobs for so long, the shift to having freedom to be creative and explore new ideas was the push I needed to get started.

Q Why blankets?

A I saw the opportunity to create blankets that were both luxurious and truly functioned for my lifestyle. I use blankets all the time, whether I’m boating, cosying up in a cabin, or just walking across the street to Kits beach. I couldn’t find anything at an attainable price point that actually performed outdoors and was made from quality natural fibres, so I created Minca.

Q Is there a story behind the name?

A The name was inspired by my travels to Minca in Colombia.

Q What makes your blankets different from other offerings?

A Our blankets are made from natural performance fibres and we have a full range of options to suit every aspect of people’s lifestyles. There’s a lot of heritage and tradition with blankets, which I wanted to incorporate while still keeping them modern. I’m from New Zealand and I grew up spending a lot of time wearing natural materials like Merino wool. It was important to use those fibres in my blankets so that they functioned for multiple uses.

Q Who is your target customer?

A I really created Minca for myself, and people like me, because I wanted something both utilitarian and vaguely bohemian that suits my lifestyle. Like many Vancouverites, I’m fairly adventurous and Minca blankets are perfect to take along. They’re so multi-functional that one target customer is hard to define; they’re for people who love to travel and be outside, or just want a beautiful accent for their home.

Q Where can people check the blankets out?

A Our full line is available online at thisisminca.com.

Q What is the price range for Minca creations?

A Pricing ranges from $125 to $400, depending on size and materials.