Modern Christmas Trees are the brainchild of Lawrence “Bud” Stoecker, a former NASA engineer who later became known for designing innovative, mid-century modern homes. His grandson, Matt Bliss, took up the torch after Stoecker’s passing in 2012 from Alzheimer’s. Driven by a love for his grandfather and the iconic design, Matt began marketing Modern Christmas Trees to the world, starting with his appearance on the Shark Tank Holiday Special.
Stoecker’s background in design and engineering led him to create a radically different type of Christmas tree. Instead of the traditional evergreen, Stoecker’s creation was a sleek, cone-shaped structure built with concentric rings that emulated a tree’s form but with a clean, modern aesthetic. The original version, made from cardboard, evolved into wood and eventually plexiglass, which became a holiday staple in the Stoecker household.
In 2011, after his grandfather’s health declined, Matt began experimenting with a new version of the tree. His efforts paid off, with nearly 200 trees sold to clients like Disneyland, Red Bull, and The National Association of Manufacturers. Today, Matt sells these trees through various retailers and online, including Amazon. A portion of each sale ($50) is donated to the Alzheimer’s Association, in honor of Stoecker’s legacy.
Net Worth of Modern Christmas Trees
The company behind Modern Christmas Trees, led by Matt Bliss, is estimated to have a net worth of around $10 million. This valuation is based on the popularity and high-profit margins of each tree, which is priced at $700. With continued demand from major clients and a growing base of individual consumers, the brand’s value is expected to increase further. The successful blend of innovative design and business acumen has positioned Modern Christmas Trees for long-term growth.
The Appeal of Mid-Century Modern Design: A Personal Reflection
My wife and I recently purchased a mid-century home, originally built in 1959. While the foundation was solid, much of the interior design was stuck in the 1970s, with features like cream-colored shag carpet, outdated faux butcher block countertops, and drab paneling. My father and I spent six months restoring the house, uncovering the stunning terrazzo floors hidden beneath the carpet and updating the space to bring it into the 21st century. We preserved key mid-century features, such as original cabinetry and sliding closet doors, and embraced the minimalist, clean lines that the era is known for.
With its modern light fixtures and a minimalist aesthetic, our home now looks like something out of a design magazine—and we couldn’t be happier. That’s why I’m so drawn to the Modern Christmas Tree. It would fit perfectly in our home, complementing the mid-century modern style that resonates with me. Perhaps it reminds me of my grandparents’ homes, or maybe it’s the simplicity and elegance that speaks to me after years of living in a busy, cluttered environment. When I saw the tree in the press release, I immediately showed it to my wife, and she loved it too. While we won’t purchase one this year, it’s on our wishlist for next Christmas.
Will the Sharks Appreciate This Unique Holiday Tradition?
There’s no doubt that Modern Christmas Trees may not appeal to everyone. The mid-century modern aesthetic is a niche style, and those with more traditional tastes might not be drawn to a plexiglass tree. However, for fans of the minimalist, sleek design, this tree could become a holiday favorite.
The biggest challenge for Matt Bliss is whether the Modern Christmas Tree can capture a broad enough market. Unlike other Christmas tree innovations, such as the Christmas Tree Hugger, this design doesn’t have the same mass appeal. Out of the 10 million artificial trees sold yearly, only a small fraction will be interested in the modern, ringed version. That’s not a knock on the tree—it’s simply the reality of appealing to a specific taste.
Despite the high-profit margins (each tree is priced at $700), the Sharks typically look for businesses with large, scalable markets. While the Modern Christmas Tree might not fit the typical Shark Tank profile, the love behind the creation and its unique design could capture the attention of the right investor. Even if Matt doesn’t walk away with a deal, his grandfather’s legacy and his passion for the product will continue to shine brightly this holiday season.
Conclusion
Modern Christmas Trees offer a unique, stylish alternative to traditional holiday decor, appealing to those who appreciate minimalist design and mid-century modern aesthetics. While the niche market may limit its mass appeal, the innovative design and connection to a personal family legacy have positioned the product for steady growth. As the company continues to expand its reach, there’s no doubt that Matt Bliss’s dedication to his grandfather’s vision will continue to leave a lasting impact on holiday traditions, making Modern Christmas Trees a memorable addition to any home.
