VENDOR SPOTLIGHT // WAREHOUSE 84

This afternoon we're chatting with Leslie from Warehouse 84. Working with Leslie you'll not only find the rentals that you need for your wedding decor but you'll also get a stylist-She's really wonderful at bringing elements together to create just what you need! 

Leslie... tell us what you do!  We create spaces that bring people together.  Our curated collection of furniture, props and decor offer our clients an eclectic mix to create the perfect event.  Offering event design, day of styling as well as furniture and decor rentals; we're able to transform our clients vision into an unforgettable event.

How long have you been working in the wedding industry? Warehouse 84 opened in the fall of 2013 however as the owner I have been in the industry for more than 20 years with a background in floral design and visual merchandising.

What makes your business unique? We offer our clients an outlet to truly create their own vision without limitations.  Warehousing everything from sofas and parlour chairs to vintage frames, accent tables, lanterns and table top decor allows us the flexibility to assist our clients every step of the way from bridal showers and ceremony decor to reception and after parties.  We design from the foundation up and if needed personally source product or build to suit.  So whether its vintage, industrial, boho or classic we have plenty to share.

Favourite part of your business? I have a 3 fold love affair with our business.  First, I love the challenge of building and refinishing new items for inventory.  Second, I love to style sets and create vignettes that help tell our clients story.  Third and possibly the most rewarding is seeing our items in a venue or at an event beautifully decorated, surrounded by our clients family and friends as they create new memories.

What inspires you? I love architecture and design.  I get excited from the simplest of things wether its a walk in nature or a walk in the hardware store.  I believe everything has more than one use if designed properly and so many items have yet to be discovered.

Who is your mentor/hero in the industry? (your own industry or the Niagara wedding industry) I don't know that I can name just one as I cherish and celebrate so many people that without them I may not be in this position today.  It could be my parents that instilled the belief that I could do anything I set my mind to and the only limitations I would have are the ones I place on myself.  I can also say in industry it is an incredibly talented and hard working lady in the floral world by the name of Sue of Sue Gallo Designs that without her Warehouse 84 may not be.  Sue was the first one in industry that embraced the idea of this rental company and gave me the encouragement to persevere and gave me the personal and professional support to see it through to what it is today. 

On your day off...where would we find you?
Days off are for friends and family and I can most likely be found on the soccer field or in the hockey arena cheering on our daughter and in down time we celebrate the little things with good food, good friends and lots of wine.

If you weren't a wedding vendor, what would be your dream job? Flipping houses.  I love design, I love to work with my hands and I'm just as comfortable with work boots and power tools as I am with high heels and pretty displays. 

Photo: Katie Nicolle

Photo: Katie Nicolle

What great wedding trends are you seeing this year? The classics will always be present however this season we are seeing lots of bohemian and industrial accents with an eclectic mix of decor for lounge areas and cocktail parties, oh and don't forget the games.  Outdoor games are a growing interest with more weddings in the vineyards, golf courses and private residences and everyone wants to have fun.  I think the number one rule is that there are no rules; just amazing celebrations filled with beautiful decor.

Do you have any practical advice for couples planning a wedding? Be true to yourself and your partner, make sure that you are designing your day for you and not your family or guests.  This day is your story to tell and is best celebrated by being yourselves.  

Photo: Jenn Kavanagh