12.06.2013

Naperville's Washington Street Holiday Market

Last weekend, between preparing for the show and sliding Thanksgiving in on Thursday... it was a hectic one for OpendoorStudio.
Campy Style... bed, Red Cross Pillows, handmade pennant pilloss too.

Mark from Room 363, a beautiful home decor and lifestyle shop in downtown Naperville, IL, had invited us to set up at his show.  This was our second year and what am amazing group of sellers he had chosen to show there wares.

The setting was the old Restoration Hardware building in downtown Naperville.  Several months ago, when chatter about the location began,  Mark suggested the idea of having "Miss Mabel" ( our little travel trailer...if you don't know that by now) indoors,  to add to the ambiance... and be a focal point for the show.  We were excited and hoped she would fit through the front doors.  After careful measuring and a few prayers, scrapes, sighs and centimeters... she made it in! It was from there we continued our "campy" theme,  Mark allowed us to set up right next to her...in the front of the Pop-up!  We began by setting up a camp tent with all of the Northwoods, glampy trimmings! (all that was missing were the Northern lights! ah... maybe that will be NEXT years inspiration! ) 
Martha, putting on the finishing touches minutes before the doors opened

Martha's vision was to create the feel of a vintage cabin in the woods and I would say ... we achieved just that, complete with a deer mount (Tony's personal collection and contribution) pheasant, duck and even two vintage (1920's) bearskin rugs.
Flannels and Bearskin rugs and Deer.... oh my!
Friday night, when the doors opened at 4:00,  the line was literally snaking out and around the block.  A steady stream of buyers entered for over 20 minutes without a break in the line.   We have NEVER seen anything like it at a small venue like this... Mark and Sue along with assiatant Maria, really know how to create excitement and grow a crowd.
OpendoorStudio goodies for Christmas

There was something for everyone.  Beautiful florals from Little Luxuries, jewelry, vintage finds, herbs, clothing, sweets and appetizers... and  so much more, to delight every senses.  Santa and Ms. Claus even popped in for some photos in a beautiful sleigh, adorned with real fresh cut cedar trees, snow and warm woolen blankets.

Vintage Christmas Finds and some old skis too!
After three days of  life, laughter, friends, customers and collectors... the show closed (4 pm Sunday) and by 8 pm, the old space was empty... like a dream.  a beautiful imagined wonderland.

The show was a success.  Wouldn't you agree? and be sure to mark YOUR calendar for next year... the weekend after Thanksgiving, in Naperville Illinois.

You will be so glad you did!  Did you attend the show... or were YOU a vendor there?  Be sure to post a link below to your blog post or photos.  And, be sure to check #room363popup on instagram for more views of the show!

Miss Mabel and Camp OpendoorStudio