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Tenlie Mourning
Founder at Dendwell
Professional Background
Tenlie Mourning is a prominent creative and entrepreneur based in New York City, making waves in the fields of design, architecture, and creative writing. Her extensive academic journey began with a Bachelor of Arts in Architecture at the prestigious Columbia University in the City of New York, where she honed her skills in design-thinking and the intricacies of spatial relationships. Complementing her architectural training, Tenlie also pursued an Arts Endorsed Diploma in Creative Writing at the Denver School of The Arts. This unique combination of disciplines has equipped her with a versatile skill set that she skillfully applies to her endeavors, particularly in brand strategy and business development.
As an innovative thinker and a dynamic leader, Tenlie has made significant contributions to the creative landscape, most notably as the founder of Dendwell. Dendwell is a pioneering social commerce platform focused on furniture and home decor, where Tenlie merges her passion for design with her entrepreneurial spirit. Under her leadership, Dendwell aims to revolutionize how people discover and engage with home furnishings, crafting a unique shopping experience driven by creativity and community.
Education and Achievements
Tenlie Mourning's education is a cornerstone of her professional identity. Her Bachelor of Arts in Architecture from Columbia University, an institution renowned for its rigorous training in urban design and innovative construction, laid the foundation for her architectural expertise. Here, she was exposed to cutting-edge concepts and historical contexts of design, enhancing her analytical skills and creative problem-solving abilities.
In addition, her Arts Endorsed Diploma in Creative Writing from the Denver School of The Arts allowed her to explore the narratives and emotional depths associated with creative expression. This background in creative writing is pivotal in her marketing and brand strategy efforts, as storytelling plays a crucial role in connecting with audiences.
Career Highlights
Tenlie’s professional journey is a testament to her versatility and vision in the creative industry. Before founding Dendwell, she served as the Founding Partner and Head of Brand Strategy at 10z Agency — a role in which she drove strategic initiatives and brand development projects. At 10z, her approach emphasized the importance of combining creativity with critical thinking, resulting in impactful campaigns that resonated with diverse audiences.
As a Founding Team Member and Creative at Discover NIGHT, Tenlie was instrumental in developing innovative programming and brand experiences that fostered greater participation in the arts. Her experience with the feminist architecture collective, f-architecture, further exemplified her commitment to using design as a platform for advocacy and social change, whilst also showcasing her belief in the power of community-driven projects.
Her early career includes roles such as Creative at LEITZES&CO, where she contributed to aesthetic strategies, and as Art Director at Studio Shaumyika Sharma, where she led creative direction for various artistic initiatives. These positions not only refined her creative abilities but also provided her with invaluable insights into the intersections of art, commerce, and culture.
Tenlie's editorial experience as an Editorial Assistant and Digital Photographer at Autre Magazine showcases her passion for visual storytelling and content creation. Additionally, her role as a Marketing Assistant at Miller Theatre provided her with a strong foundation in marketing practices, equipping her with the tools necessary to build successful brands and campaigns.
Achievements
Throughout her diverse career, Tenlie Mourning has received recognition for her innovative contributions and thought leadership. She is a sought-after speaker and mentor, often sharing her insights on creative entrepreneurship and brand strategy with aspiring professionals in the industry. Her work has not only allowed her to build influential brands but also create meaningful dialogues about design and community engagement.
Under her guidance, Dendwell has gained traction in the competitive world of social commerce, showcasing a unique collection of curated furniture and home decor that resonates with customers seeking authenticity and style in their living spaces. Tenlie’s commitment to fostering a supportive online community has positioned her platform at the intersection of creativity and commerce, embodying her vision of design's transformative power.
In summary, Tenlie Mourning exemplifies the ideal blend of artistic vision and business acumen, making her a notable figure in the realms of design, branding, and entrepreneurship. Her commitment to creative expression, combined with her practical experience in building brands and shaping community narratives, positions her as a leader and influencer in the contemporary marketplace.
Highlights

