Delicious food • Beautiful spaces

creating Bites, Florals, Styling, and Inspo

 
 
 

musings

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Introducing Midwest maven

Hi, I’m Jo Marie. I’ve been a maker and creator since I was a little girl, and I’m excited to bring my inspiration and expressions to you here. If you’re a Kansas City local, you may know me from The Mixx and Caffetteria. Whether it’s whipping up recipes for my restaurant concepts or renovating my new farmhouse in Weston, Missouri, one thing is constant—every detail matters. It doesn’t need to be stressful or cost a lot of money. MWM is about using thoughtful creativity to bring everyday joy into your life and surroundings. 

More on Maven

Explore

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Midwest Manor

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Bites

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Florals

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Entertain

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Cocktails

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Styling

 
Sangria cocktails to-go anyone? I've always loved mason jars for serving cocktails, desserts or overnight oats. They are laid back, portable, sustainable, and easy to adorn with ribbon or twine for a little extra style. Check out my favorite sangri
Finding a piece that has a little grit will add a whole lot of personality to your project. This is the original mailbox on Midwest Manor. And I'd never think of changing it. #midwesthome #oldhouselove #farmhouseliving #farmhouserenovation #oldhome
During a renovation project, so many great partners come together to bring your vision to life. This is Travis, one of my amazing contractors. He knew I was into the history of Midwest Manor, so his team salvaged everything for me including the orig
For my restaurant concepts, I create new specials every season. This summer, the watermelon salad is featured at @themixxkc. I love how the fruit and mint come to together to deliver a cool and fresh lunch or side dish. #summersalad #watermelonsala
Shopping local and buying fresh produce, especially at the @opfarmersmarket, is always on my weekly to-do list. Finding real ingredients and imagining new recipes is more than a job for me — it's creativity and love all wrapped up in one. #sho
Almost everything on this table was purchased second hand. I love mixing styles and patterns to create a look all my own. The flower-pattern bowl I found years ago and kept for just the right moment. Check out my full blog post at the link in my bio
For years I called myself "Midwest Martha" or "Martha Stewart of the Midwest" because of my fondness for cooking, styling, holidays, florals, renovations ... (you get it). And after a little encouragement from friends, I created m
I’ve been heading out to Weston on a weekly basis to check on all the Midwest Manor progress and wanted to share some of my recent photos. Here you can see the twisted chimney that holds up the house. Rumor has it that many old homes in Weston
Accessible inspiration on offer. Meaning you can do this stuff too! Small moments make a big difference in your day (or someone else’s). #smallmoments #appreciatethesmallthings #midwestlife #momentsoflove