Tuesday, October 18, 2011

A Few New Inventory Photos

We had our camera out recently and took a few photos of some recent finds and some floral ideas.





- Julie and Kristy

The Odd Willow | Twin Cities Event Rentals

Wednesday, October 5, 2011

No More Table Skirts!

When planning my wedding, I wasn't feeling table skirts.  Although they serve a purpose, table skirts are just too traditional for my taste.  Don't let anyone tell you you have to use them -- you don't!

We tossed around a few ideas to replace the traditional table skirt, and finally settled on garland created with muslin and fabric.  My mom went to work collecting muted fabrics that fit our our minimal color scheme.  Then she began ripping and tearing!

We wanted to share with you a quick how-to on making muslin and fabric garland:

Start by making a small cut in the fabric to start the strip.


Then quickly rip the fabric.  This will create a somewhat frayed strip.  You can make the strip as wide or narrow as you'd like.


Note -- muslin will naturally rip along the nap forming a straight edge.  If you begin and the fabric isn't naturally ripping in a straight line, try ripping the fabric from the adjacent side. 

A combination of muslin and muted fabrics were used to create the garland pictured below.  Pinning the garland to a standard banquet tablecloth did the trick.  We used this garland on the head, buffet, and dessert tables in place of table skirts.  We think this casual garland fit the overall comfortable feel of the wedding. 


Crystal buttons added just the right amount of sparkle to our garland.  


Contact us if you're interested in purchasing or renting our muslin and fabric garland.

- Kristy


The Odd Willow | Unique Minneapolis Event Ideas

Thursday, September 29, 2011

An Old Twist on Shopping at Home!

Not finding what you're looking for at your local antique shop?  Try going online. 


 
 

We currently have our eyes on this adorable little vintage bread cabinet, available at The Petite Market.






Jody, owner of The Petite Market, really has an eye for beautiful old things.  We just love her shop! 

 












Check back early next week for a new post about table skirts, and why you don't have to use them!


- Julie and Kristy

The Odd Willow | Saint Paul Event Rentals

Wednesday, September 21, 2011

For Cards, Think Inside the Box . . . or Suitcase . . .

Rather than using the traditional birdcage for cards, Kristy found a rustic old box, with lots of patina and charm.  We decided we needed to announce it's purpose, so we aged some chipboard letters for the label. 





















We think this cute little suitcase would work perfectly to hold cards for a baby shower, Christening, or even a wedding.
 




Reimagining something as simple as an old box or sweet little suitcase can help create the perfect feel for your event. 

- Julie and Kristy

The Odd Willow | Unique Finds for Every Event

Tuesday, September 13, 2011

One Man's Junk . . .


The Odd Willow is excited to be hunting for new treasures at this year's Junk Bonanza.  If you love antiquing, this sale is a must!  The sale runs this Thursday - Saturday (Sept. 15 - 17) at Canterbury Park in Shakopee. 

Junk Bonanza vendors have really mastered the art of display.  Here are some photos from last year's sale:




We'll let you know about our fabulous finds!

- Julie and Kristy

The Odd Willow | Unique Finds for Every Event

Wednesday, September 7, 2011

The Odd Willow -- Running With The Llamas This Weekend!



The Odd Willow will be at The Running of the Llamas in Hammond, WI, this Saturday, September 10.  We’ll be showing off some of our inventory and photos. 

Check out The Running of the Llamas' website and facebook page.
If you’re in the neighborhood stop by – we’d love to chat!
We have never attended this event, so we’re excited to see what it’s all about!   
- Julie and Kristy

    The Odd Willow | Minnesota Vintage Event Rental


Monday, August 29, 2011

Unique Guest Book Idea: Moon Bindery


When thinking about shower gifts, my other daughter, Holly, and I knew 
we wanted something really special for Kristy and Jeff.  We decided on 
a guestbook.  We knew Kristy wouldn't want a traditional guest book, 
so we started to look for unique ideas on Etsy.  We found Moon Bindery, 
owned by super-talented Barbara. 
 
We had a handmade, leatherbound guestbook made for Kristy and Jeff.   
We are so happy with how it turned out.  We were able to customize the  
inscription, and since Jeff is a huge Beatles fan, we knew just what  
quote to use!
 
 
 
 
We know how hard it is to find unique items that aren't mass- produced, so we wanted to share this shop with you. Check out Barbara's Etsy Shop for all her beautiful handmade goods!

- Julie
 
The Odd Willow | Antique Event Rental in the Twin Cities