Maalouf Meets — Christina Wendel, co-founder of BÖF, an online universe for children and adults, which she runs together with her husband and partner, Nikolaj.
Founded in 2016, BÖF is built around a simple philosophy: to offer thoughtful, lasting products that can be used, loved, and passed on. With a focus on craftsmanship, quality, and natural materials, Christina carefully curates a collection of pieces from independent makers, artists, and small-scale producers from around the world.
Many of the values that define BÖF today can be traced back to Christina's
childhood and her years at a Rudolf Steiner school, where creativity, craftsmanship, and a deep respect for childhood were an integral part of everyday life.
Before founding BÖF, she worked as a social worker, a path that reflects her longstanding interest in people, relationships, and human connection, and makes her transition into entrepreneurship all the more inspiring.
Driven by curiosity and a genuine appreciation for meaningful design,
Christina is drawn to brands with strong stories and clear values. This thoughtful approach is reflected throughout the BÖF universe, where many pieces are produced in limited quantities and several are developed through close collaborations with artists and craftspeople.
Based in Vesterbro, Copenhagen, Christina and Nikolaj run BÖF alongside family life with their two sons, Harald and Eddie. Their showroom is also located here, at the heart of the neighbourhood they call home.
IN CONVERSATION WITH
CHRISTINA WENDEL
Q: Who are you, and what do you do?
A: I'm Christina, a country girl who moved to Copenhagen over 20 years ago.
I'm a mother of two, living on Vesterbro with my husband.
Whenever I get the chance, you'll find me at our summer house.
I'm also the founder and owner of BÖF Shop.
Q: How did you first connect with Maalouf?
A: I first met Mathilde through a mutual friend, we all have children of a similar age. Our friendship really began to grow a few years later, and today she’s my dear friend, daily support and only a phone call away - that happens more often than not, many calls a day :)
Q: In a world that often feels fast-paced and unpredictable, how do you approach the things you buy and hold onto?
A: I’m drawn to pieces that truly speak to me and feel right - especially handmade objects that aren’t driven by trends, but instead resonate through their form, color, and story.
The same philosophy carries through to my shop, where it aligns beautifully with Maalouf’s approach: creating small-batch, high-quality pieces that are thoughtfully made to last.
And I feel so lucky to stock Mathilde’s brand Maalouf at my shop, BÖF.
Q: What has been your underwear journey?
A: Oh! It's been an endless search for the right fit and the softest fabrics. Over the past 15 years, there's definitely been a little more fabric involved :) and comfort has become just as important as style.
Q: Is there such a thing as the perfect piece?
A: Soft, soft, and soft. Right now, Maalouf's High Briefs are my absolute favourite.
Q: Is there a piece of art, film or literature that you remember because of the underwear?
A: Monica from Friends accusing her cleaning lady of stealing her bra. Iconic.
It was also my favorite sitcom as a teenager.
Last but not less important…
Q: What is a perfect meal or dish to be enjoyed when you’re just in your underwear?
A: Black coffee at 5:30 in the morning
Christina and Nikolaj are valued collaborators, dear friends, and some of Maalouf's longest-standing supporters. Their belief in what we do means a great deal to us, and BÔF continues to be one of our favourite places to discover thoughtfully made products for children and families
Thank you, dearest Christina, for welcoming us behind the scenes of BÖF, and into your home and showroom. We feel incredibly lucky to have shared this day with you. And thank you to Katrine Møbius for, as always, capturing it all so beautifully and for being such wonderful company both of you.
Christina is wearing our Light Long Sleeve Tee in size medium
To discover more of BÖF and Christina, visit boefboef.com.
All the best <3
x
