Today we’d like to introduce you to Sasha Goldstein.
Hi Sasha, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
Art and design have always been at the heart of who I am. Growing up with a mother who was a graphic designer before the computer era, I was constantly surrounded by art supplies and encouraged to explore my creativity. When I was seven or eight, my parents even let me choose how to paint my bedroom. Each wall became a different color—some with stripes and multiple shades—and they honored their promise, giving me complete creative freedom to bring my vision to life.
After years of working in the design industry for other companies, that same creativity and drive led me to found SMG Collective. The business is built on my core values: a deep respect for the environment, thoughtful consideration of what goes into every piece, and a commitment to natural, non-toxic materials. Every line SMG represents is ethically crafted by artisans near and far, with a focus on handmade custom area rugs, modern furniture, lighting, and interior accessories designed to enhance any environment.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
SMG Collective was founded in May 2018 and began by subleasing the back portion of a dear friend’s showroom, SITTE Modern. Less than a year into sharing the space with Allison, she made the decision to close her business and move closer to family. Shortly after launching my own company, I took my second major leap of faith and assumed the lease for the entire space myself.
Just eight months later, the pandemic hit. The years from 2020 to 2023 were undeniably grueling. With the world shut down and Portland facing immense challenges, it was an incredibly difficult time to be a small business owner. I had no employees and had to push forward on my own, holding onto the hope that there would eventually be light at the end of the tunnel.
Now, in my ninth year of business, after navigating so much uncertainty and a truly frightening rollercoaster, I feel more grounded than ever—both as a business owner and as a proud member of Portland’s small business community.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
SMG Collective is a women-owned design showroom based in Portland, Oregon, specializing in handcrafted custom rugs, modern furniture, artisanal wallpaper, and locally made ceramics and glassware. With a deep commitment to sustainability and ethical production, we champion the work of both local and global makers who honor traditional craft techniques and use natural, responsibly sourced materials.
Our curated collections are designed to serve residential, commercial, and hospitality spaces, offering pieces that are not only beautiful but built to endure. Founded by Sasha Goldstein—who brings over two decades of experience in the design industry—SMG Collective is rooted in the belief that thoughtful, well-made design supports a more sustainable and creatively vibrant future.
What would you say have been one of the most important lessons you’ve learned?
To pause, breathe, and move with the natural flow of things whenever possible. I welcome everyone with an open heart and an open mind, both in life and in business. When you lead with that energy, you naturally attract the same in return.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.smgcollective.com
- Instagram: @smg_collective
