Meet Margaret Dillard | Co-founder, Half Past Seven

We had the good fortune of connecting with Margaret Dillard and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Margaret, every day, we about how much execution matters, but we think ideas matter as well. How did you come up with the idea for your business?
My business partner, Jen, and I grew up with incredible hostess role models (in our moms and grandmothers). We love gathering friends and family in our homes and wanted to make it easier for others to do the same. Thus, Half Past Seven was born with the mission to create beautiful, versatile and unique pieces that help you host in your home. We are lucky to work with artisans around the world (primarily central Mexico) to create these pieces. It might sound silly to someone who entertains regularly, but for someone who is hesitant to open their home to friends, having “the right pieces” can make all the difference.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Founded by two boy moms with a shared ethos of “more joy, less stress,” Half Past Seven believes in the value of authentic, handcrafted pieces that both calm and inspire us. Our customers share our nostalgia for past traditions and an appreciation for enduring design. They find comfort in life’s small moments, and they’re inspired to gather with friends and family, knowing that all of life can be worth celebrating.

Started with the mission to create beautiful, versatile, and unique pieces, Half Past Seven works with artisans from around the world (primarily central Mexico). All our pieces help you entertain and host in your home, but our glassware from Mexico is what sets us apart. Made from mouth-blown recycled glass, using centuries-old traditions, our pieces are true works of art. Whether you are shopping for a wedding or holiday gift, adding a new piece to an already robust assembly, or just starting your collection, Half Past Seven’s designs are the perfect addition.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I (Margaret) live in Durham and feel so lucky to be able to take advantage of all the Triangle has to offer. I love the grits souffle appetizer at Nana’s, the Old Fashioned at Mateo, the kale salad at Pizzeria Toro and pretty much everything at M Sushi. When we have out of towners visiting, we always spend time at the Duke Gardens, catch a Blue Devils sporting event, and grab brunch at Elmo’s.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
We love this question! I’d love to dedicate this shoutout to Kids’ First – a group of incredible orthopedists and nurses who spend a week every spring in central Mexico operating on children. Their work inspires us weekly and their contribution to these communities will span generations.

Website: https://halfpastsevenhome.com

Instagram: @halfpastsevenhome

Image Credits
Daniel Smith
Lindsey Keegan Dowdy
Michael Amici