11 October 2024
Mihai Stavila: Mastering the Art of Leatherwork with SENOR MIKE
Starting out with a desire for independence at 17, Mihai went from small odd jobs to becoming the founder of SENOR MIKE, a custom leather goods brand known for its unique, handcrafted creations.
Wanting to be his own boss, Mihai explored various avenues before finding his passion. His first business was in hookah rentals (kalian) and while successful, his entrepreneurial spirit kept pushing him toward something more fulfilling. That’s when he discovered his love for working with upholstery and eventually, leather.
After some time crafting car upholstery, Mihai had a life-changing moment when he observed one of his clients creating leather goods. Instantly captivated by the results of the leatherwork, he began experimenting with creating his own pieces. His first project? A custom travel bag for a friend, crafted from eco-leather.
Building SENOR MIKE
Mihai’s early works quickly grew from personal projects to a thriving business. He began handcrafting belts, wallets, and bags, each item custom made with great attention to detail. At just 18 years old, he opened his first workshop in Telenesti, Moldova, where SENOR MIKE was born.
Even as the COVID-19 pandemic forced him to relocate to Italy for two years, he continued with the craft. By day, he worked various jobs but by night, he was creating leather products for a small client base. Upon his return to Moldova, he fully dedicated himself to growing his brand.
A Blend of Tradition and Innovation
What sets SENOR MIKE apart from other brands is the personalized experience Mihai offers his clients. Customers aren’t just buying a product—they are part of the creation process. Clients can select the leather, lining, and every detail of their item, ensuring that each piece is a reflection of their personal style and needs.
By April 2024, his hard work lead to the opening of his first physical store in Moldova. SENOR MIKE has already served over 600 clients, producing around 60 handmade leather items each month for customers in Moldova, Romania, Germany, Dubai and Italy.
While SENOR MIKE is built on traditional craftsmanship, Mihai isn’t afraid to innovate. He recently began incorporating NFC technology into his products, allowing customers to link their leather goods to personal profiles, such as LinkedIn. With just a tap of a smartphone, users can access their information, adding a modern twist to traditional craftsmanship.
A Vision for the Future
Mihai's vision for SENOR MIKE is to build a strong, reputable brand in the European market that is known for its handcrafted quality and personalized service. His journey, from small beginnings to crafting leather goods, is a story of passion. For him, SENOR MIKE isn’t just a brand—it’s a legacy in the making.