Maisonje and muBeans make New York debut in SoHo

Maisonje, the Korean-Australian backpack brand founded by Jay Heo, launched in New York on June 19, 2026 at Flying Solo in SoHo with muBeans as event sponsor. The joint debut spotlights two female-founded brands aiming at mobile professionals with functional design and caffeine-free botanical drinks.

Why it matters: - The launch brings two female-founded, Korean-led brands into New York’s retail and events scene. - Maisonje is targeting professional women and modern commuters who need carry items that work across offices, airports and cafes. - muBeans is positioning itself as an alternative to traditional coffee for people who want the ritual and taste without caffeine.

What happened: - Maisonje held its New York launch on June 19, 2026 at Flying Solo in SoHo. - muBeans joined the event as sponsor and served guests its caffeine-free botanical brews. - The debut centered on a shared vision from Maisonje founder Jay Heo and muBeans CEOs Yumi Choi and Jinhee Kim.

The details: - Maisonje was founded by Korean-Australian designer Jay Heo. - muBeans is led by Korean-American founders Yumi Choi and Jinhee Kim. - The Maisonje collection includes multiple compartments for a laptop and gadgets. - The bags also include a hidden security pocket for passports. - The design adds tailored compartments for a tumbler and an umbrella. - The full Maisonje collection is available at Maisonje. - Maisonje is available at Flying Solo SoHo in New York and at the company's website. - muBeans describes its products as wellness-driven beverages made with proprietary botanical fibre blends. - muBeans says the drinks are designed to deliver coffee-like taste and ritual without caffeine, acid distress or dependence on vulnerable coffee crop ecosystems. - The event took place at Flying Solo, 419 Broome St, New York, NY 10013. - Flying Solo’s website is Flying Solo, and its social handle is @flyingsolonyc. - muBeans’ website is muBeans, and its social handle is @mubeansofficial.

Between the lines: - The partnership links product design with a beverage brand built around wellness and portability. - The overlap suggests both brands are aiming at consumers who value convenience, function and a more intentional daily routine. - The New York debut gives both brands a foothold in a market that can amplify niche, founder-led labels.

What's next: - Maisonje’s New York presence gives the brand a retail and event platform for future expansion. - muBeans can use the launch to build awareness among New York consumers and potential retail partners. - The brands are likely to keep leaning into the modern commuter and nomad theme in future activations.

The bottom line: - Maisonje and muBeans used a SoHo launch to introduce a shared pitch: practical, founder-led products for people who move between work, travel and wellness routines.