by Leila Swinbourne | Mar 1, 2019 | Events
Have you ever driven past The Prop House and wondered, “What on earth do they do in there?” Maybe you’ve seen beautifully styled events, mall windows or shop shelves and wished you knew more about how it was done, and by whom. Well, we are here to answer all of your queries! This month’s illuminating interview is from our super talented Event Stylist, Rachael. With her meticulous attention to detail, driven work ethic and refined sense of style, Rach goes above and beyond to make her clients’ dreams come true. 1. Dinner Under The Stars ◄ Back Next ► Picture 1 of 7 Rach, describe your role – what actually is an Event Stylist? An Event Stylist designs concepts to elevate an event to the next level by creating a particular look and feel based on a client’s vision. This can be on a large scale, say a Circus-themed sit down Gala Dinner for 600 people, or an elegant cocktail party for 50 people. I love trying to bring new approaches to a re-occurring theme and making sure we keep on trend with the props we have to hire. Talk us through how you found your way into this role. What was your experiential background? I got my first break as an event assistant within a corporate company. This lead to about 8 years in an event coordinator position managing a national events portfolio. This job involved end to end Event Management of small workshops to large conferences to retreats and fully styled Dinners. To gain a bit more experience, I ventured to Melbourne and while there was...
by Leila Swinbourne | Jan 31, 2019 | Events, The Prop House
Have you ever driven past The Prop House and wondered, “What on earth do they do in there?” Maybe you’ve seen beautifully styled events, mall windows or shop shelves and wished you knew more about how it was done, and by whom. Well, we are here to answer all of your queries! Over the next few months, we will be introducing you to the The Prop House team and giving you an insight into what their job entails, their tips and tricks as well as advice for anyone seeking a similar path. Event stylists, visual merchandisers, retail managers, props creators and even graphic designers – we’ll take you through every room in the house! Our first interview begins with the effervescent, energetic and enigmatic Sydney. After landing the role of Prop Stylist with us in 2017, Sydney has recently stepped into the role of Retail Manager. A dynamic leader, colourful thinker and child of the earth, Sydney’s ideas are always fresh and a little cheeky! Syd, describe your role – what actually is a retail manager? Well Leila, being the retail manager for The Prop House means I get to be in charge of what we have in stock to sell both online and in store. Exciting, I know. My favourite part is creating new trends, refreshing areas with new product and coming up with ideas with my colleagues – so pretty much just banter. But hey, who doesn’t love a good brainstorming sesh every once in a while. Talk us through how you found your way into this role. What was your experiential background? Experiment. Why not. That’s exactly...
by Leila Swinbourne | Dec 17, 2018 | Events, Props
The festive season is in full swing, and that means one thing: events, events, events! Here are the props in hottest demand for this summer’s soirees, celebrations and ceremonies. Velvets Bring in a touch of effortless chic with our gorgeous range of Velvet Furniture. Making a statement for any occasion, we just love our Green Velvet Lounge for a formal affair, or our blush and gold velvet ottomans for a trendy cocktail party. Timber Swing Swing into Summer with our new favourite Prop, the Timber Swing. Creating the perfect interactive photo backdrop, the swing can stand alone or be embellished with greenery, florals or custom signage to really keep that selfie game strong! Greenery Our range of Faux Greenery is the perfect accessory for those tropical parties. No better way to embrace the warmer weather (or escape the cold chill) by being surrounded by plants both tall and short. Our new 2.7mH Banana Palms and 2.4mH Fiddle Leaf Trees are our top picks for statement greenery. Hot Styling Tip: Team all three trending props together for a Luxe Tropical Oasis Event your guests will never stop posting...
by Leila Swinbourne | Oct 30, 2018 | Events
Dating back to the nineteenth century, the locality of ‘The Hamptons’ has included a group of villages and hamlets on Long Island, New York. Originally devoted to agriculture and fishing, the destination is now a popular summer destination and home to America’s elite – boasting some of the most expensive land prices in all of the US. The combination of coastal living, wealthy society and touches of colonial architecture have transformed The Hamptons into its own recognisable style that is coveted the world over. But what exactly is that? It’s French provincial meets Scandinavian minimalism meets Californian coastal. It’s whitewashed timber, heapings of soft linen, touches of royal blue and no-fuss natural textures. It’s elegant, clean and refined. It’s right at home in our blistering Australian summer for easy, breezy entertaining from long sun-drenched brunches to cool evening soirees. And best of all, we have everything you need right here! SHOWN ABOVE: Timber Table Louis Chair Fringed Cushion To recreate the look at home, you are already one step ahead if you have timber floors and/or matte white walls. If not, fake it till you make it with thick cotton curtains and a textured rug. Choosing the right size rug is important for this detail-oriented scheme. As a general rule, the rug should not sit inside of the furniture – when the furniture ‘frames’ the rug, the space automatically looks smaller. By choosing a larger size rug and placing the furniture on top of the rug, an illusion of more floorspace is created. Natural fibres like jute or seagrass are perfect for minimal coastal style. Deep, comfortable couches in...
by Leila Swinbourne | Aug 31, 2018 | Props, The Prop House
It seems like everyone is on holidays at the moment, doesn’t it? Whether it’s basking in the endless sunsets with an Aperol Spritz in hand on a beach in Italy or charging the powdery slopes in New Zealand, social media is awash with friends and strangers enjoying dreamy exotic locations. FOMO, anyone? But before you hit up Flight Centre, why not check out some of our new international packages for a mini vacation…without the long airport delays! Inspired by some of our favourite places for holiday (or at least, in our dreams!) the packages offer some mix-and-match options to surprise and delight your guests at your next event. No passport needed! This month’s cultural crushes: TURKEY What we love: the food, the colours, the vibrancy! Event tip: serve a big shared selection of stuffed vegetables, pilaf, doner and koftas with plenty of pickles and yoghurt. Burn incense or add some frankincense, oregano and clove essential oil to a diffuser to set the scene! Package: Embrace the bold and bright with our Middle Eastern Infusion package. JAPAN What we love: the humble hospitality, the landscape and the big city skyline. Event tip: offer a selection of green teas, jasmine tea and herbal teas in beautiful teapots and a ceramic mug for each guest. Delicate floral arrangements and silk cushions will add a luxurious touch. Package: our Asian Occasion package is perfect for a special morning tea or an all-night festival! FRANCE What we love: the flowers, the beautiful architecture and of course…the romance! Event tip: champagne, champagne, champagne! For some gorgeous rosy alternatives, sparkling grapefruit juice, iced hibiscus tea or strawberry-infused mineral water...
by Leila Swinbourne | May 29, 2018 | Events
Can you believe it’s almost July! With a pumping start to 2018 it’s time to recharge our mojo and celebrate all the successes this year has brought so far. Cue the mulled wine. Why Christmas in July? Why not, it’s our chance as Queenslanders to satisfy all those cozy white-Christmas dreams. Well as close to satisfying them as we can. And even though I’m picturing family and friends bundled around a fire, passing the frosted fire ball bottle with Michael Buble serenading us, the reality of our ‘chilliest’ month brings Ugg boots, weekend beach trips and themed celebrations. Bring it on. What’s inspiring us this season? CASINO ROYAL Gather your employees, cue the dirty martinis, clip on the suspenders and fasten your seat belts. We’re taking you on a top secret mission involving horses, coastal lines and extravagant castles. So take a chance and roll the dice. We dare you. FUNKY TOWN 5. 6. 7. 8. Grab your faux fur coat and sequin shorty short and let’s cruise underground to funky town. There’s no better way to take on that winter chill than to groove and shimmy into the sunrise. See you on the dance floor. THE EXCLUSIVE COTTON CLUB Dust off your flapper dress and pile on the pearls. It’s time to twist and turn back to the 1920’s with a Cotton Club underground soiree. Just make sure you sip your champagne from classic coupe. And all that Jazz… For more DIY ideas hustle over to our Pinterest page… https://www.pinterest.com.au/theprophouse/we-love-winter-wonderland/ ...
by Leila Swinbourne | Mar 26, 2018 | Events
You can’t get a business more unique than The Prop House. The Brisbane company launched its new retail concept through a VIP Party on Wednesday night, discussing all things styling, trends and design while opening the doors to their showroom’s new season look. Guests enjoyed a fun night of champagne and nibbles among the infamous props as the company’s director, Jano Dawes, offered her insight on the latest trends in design. Known for event styling and visual merchandising, the team at The Prop House was excited to introduce Brisbane businesses to a new style of VM, focused on teaching companies the power of DIY. See who was at our VIP Launch Party on the event Facebook Album. Continuing the hype from our retail launch and our chief Jano’s inspiring 2018 trends forecast we will be releasing our new ‘DIY Prop Styling’ catalogue after Easter. A collection with more than 20 of our favourite event themes – covering everything from ‘Midnight in Paris’ to a ‘50’s rock’n’roll jive night – our new DIY catalogue will inspire you to keep on celebrating. Here’s a sneak peak of what’s coming… Created with love by The Prop...
by Leila Swinbourne | Aug 31, 2017 | Events
Welcoming our new Retail Manager for an informal chat to understand a bit more about the personality and taste of this creative professional now working with us. In our interview, Peta talks about her musical and food taste, trip stories and plans for the future. What’s your favourite type of cuisine? I have been a vegetarian for 25yrs so I am definitely a fan of fresh healthy seasonal foods. I love Asian street food, my favourite being Pho. As well as Mexican and Japanese. My death row food though is Hot chips! What kind of music do you listen to? Jazz is always my first selection but I do listen to most genres of music and I have a great collection of Vinyl. What was the most incredible exotic place you’ve ever travelled to? Morocco. Without a doubt. It was 17 yrs ago. The most exhilarating and frightening trip I have ever done. We definitely experienced the intoxicating energy of the country. We spent most of our trip in the Rif mountains in Chefchaouen getting to live the culture first hand. I love travelling but nothing has come close to my Moroccan adventure. Where would you choose to live: by the ocean, in the mountains or in the woods? I am an ocean girl and the Sunshine coast has been home base for the past 25yrs. But I am a gypsy at heart and I love the experience of all three. What is your favourite season? Winter for the fashion opportunities. Spring for the beautiful evenings. Summer for the Fruits and Autumn for the display of nature. Stay...
by Leila Swinbourne | Jun 30, 2017 | Events, Props, The Prop House
What a year we have had so far. We thought we’d take a look back at some of our favourite moments before we begin our preparations for Christmas – yes that time of year is just around the corner for us already! We’ve packed a lot into the last six months, working with our favourite clients old and new. At last count we hired over 1,350 props to over 330 clients, dressed 650 mannequins and put more than 25,000 baubles onto Christmas trees around the Great South East. Our showroom at Leopard and Vulture Street got a golden facelift with a new facade and illuminated signage. The Prop House Throughout the past six months our clients have taken our imagination to the Middle East, visiting the races and even into their own homes, giving us the opportunity to display how versatile our styling can be. Our most vibrant event was definitely the Somerville House Arabian Night theme which was a truly rich and decadent event. This theme was about creating a grand and extravagant evening, feeling as though you were in the Middle Eastern desert. We used Aladdin for inspiration, thinking magic carpet, desert, feathers and rich colours. The launch of a new development in Brisbane saw The Prop House style a marquee at Raymond Park on a stunningly sunny day. The Moroccan inspired interiors of the development translated into the Luncheon Setting with patterned lanterns, natural finishes and pops of colour through florals & greenery. The guests enjoyed a delicious meal whilst overlooking the city views from amongst the trees. Creating a party atmosphere at a stunning home on...
by Leila Swinbourne | May 26, 2017 | Events, Props, The Prop House
Nothing beats an Australian Christmas in the summer. However, with the cooler temperatures on the horizon, everyone after a more traditional Christmas experience now has the perfect opportunity to do so. This winter our fabulous stylists are thinking Winter Wonderland as an exciting party theme. Think Chronicles of Narnia and stepping into the wardrobe, through the fur coats into this Winter Wonderland theme inspiration provided by yours truly The Prop house! Whether you require event styling or prop hire, our showroom is brimming with festive inspiration. From the perfect ornate Sleigh to Illuminated Maple trees, a reindeer (Okay he’s not Mr. Tumnus….but he’s pretty darn cute), and a rather impressive Polar Bear, The Prop House have whipped up a magical world of frosty enchantment! Whether you’re having a corporate event or getting the family together for a festive meal, we have some fabulous Winter Wonderland centerpieces to choose from. Keep it simple with our Mirror Pyramid adorned with Christmas baubles and a silver feather, or go for the more extravagant Candelabra with crystal beading. Feeling festive and inspired? We are open Monday-Friday 9 am-4:30 pm Come and visit! Alternatively, shoot us an email with any inquiries you may have at...
by Leila Swinbourne | Apr 28, 2017 | Events
Are you in the mood to impart an exotic twist to your next special event? Rub the magic lamp and let us transport your guests half a world away with our Arabian Nights theme. Take a walk through the Bazaar at night and travel under the stars before dining under the canopy of a Bedouin Tent, this was our clients brief for their Somerville House Arabian Nights Ball 2017. The Arabian Mosque Outline with cascading lights set the backdrop for the evening of celebration and community with a large Central Bud Light Chandelier creating an opulent feel within the space. The use of colour and light was very significant in our styling, keeping tones rich and luscious with Oranges, Purples and Gold seen throughout the table linen, the exotic feathers and silk leaves in the centrepieces as well as the overhead draping. If you are planning an event and would like to hire props or enquire about styling and theming , just drop in to our showroom to have a chat, or give us a call on 3555 8660. ...
by Leila Swinbourne | Apr 6, 2017 | Events, The Prop House
The Prop House is always looking for ways to inspire our clients, and what better way then to give you a pop of colour!! Our talented stylists have picked three Autumnal colours which they feel could be used to create an Oh So Stylish event! The Colour Purple Continuing from last year’s pastel trend, purples will hit the scene with an impact. The purple trend is inspired by metals, space, stars and clouds. The Prop House suggest: Sprinkle purple with transparent fabrics, floaty silks and sheers which will create a lightness and soft romantic element to this trend. Gorgeous Green The year of 2017 was kicked off with colour masters Pantone stating Greenery as their Colour of the Year, and autumn is an optimum time to change over from last season’s fresher shades to rich and bold emerald. Green is a very versatile colour as it comes in muted, earthy tones which give a grounding effect, to heavy and stronger emerald and jewel tones that give a luxurious and luscious feel. The Prop House suggest: Why not pair together a strong green with gold and brass colours in order to achieve an Art Deco trend or pair it with more earthier colours/textures such as terracotta, rattan and cork. The Prop House have added our Bedouin Jar tall below for some extra inspiration. Spicy Orange The Prop House feels that there is something sincerely chic about the burnt, flushed hue of spicy orange. This season spicy orange is bursting on to the best runways and red carpets. This warm colour comes into its own in the cooler months. Once again...
