Maria Blatnick owns more than 200 chairs. None of them match. Not to mention various patterns of antique china, vintage picture frames, galvanized washtubs and windows. “It really runs that gamut,” says Blatnick.

Such an eclectic collection led Blatnick to start HodgePodge Vintage Rentals, a source to rent props and accessories for weddings, events and photo shoots.

HodgePodge merges Blatnick’s love for unique design with her love for beautiful things. With a background in retail, she uses her styling experience to develop an eye for vintage products. Her services include rentals (delivery, set up and takedown); event and photo shoot styling; and customized searches for that perfect piece.

“It combines everything I’ve always done on the job,” Blatnick says of her business. “I’ve probably driven more than 150 miles at a time to the middle of nowhere. I’ve gone to a lot of antique stores, garage sales, flea markets.”

Weddings are popular for rentals right now, for brides looking to be different. ”I have a really large demographic,” says Blatnick. “Mostly I appeal to first-time brides ages 26-32 who want a more personalized, creative, individualized event.”

One of Blatnick’s current favorite themes plays on the farm-to-table trend. “My clients want a really homespun feel,” she explains. “They want a real down-home farm feeling.” Rentals to create the feel include windows, washtubs and, of course, vintage chairs.

Other popular rentals include books, cameras and suitcases. While Blatnick is trying to list her goods on her website, she is in the process of securing a storefront in 78th Street Studios.

Source: Maria Blatnick
Writer: Karin Connelly