Meet the Passionate Owners Behind trend + relic in St. Charles
With combined backgrounds in graphic arts, photography, web design; along with full-time corporate jobs at AT&T and Aldi, Karri and Heather became fast friends, collectively merging their business knowledge and creative elements to open trend + relic in 2020.
Housing many specialty merchants under one roof, who create and curate unique items including handcrafted specialties such as jewelry, candles, furniture, and art, the pair love to go on buying road trips, refinish furniture with Fusion Mineral Paint, and stay involved with the St. Charles Small Business Alliance.
What is hot in vintage home design for Spring/Summer 2025?
We have been reading that art deco is making a comeback so we are waiting to see how that takes off at the shop. Artwork is always timeless, whether it's original or reproduction in gorgeous antique frames. Vintage furniture statement pieces are always in style and we are seeing a lot of round furniture, such as barrel back chairs for example.
What is trending in 2025 for overall home decor and design?
Color has made a comeback, which is exciting! We are loving the color drenching we are seeing, where the room, trim, ceilings and even furniture are the same color or same color family. Rich jewel tones and wood furniture in rich dark tones.
What is the difference between vintage, shabby-look, antique, industrial chic, rustic, etc..?
Antiques should be 100 years old or older, vintage is 20 years or older although generally should be 1999 or earlier. Shabby Chic is a more worn, lived in style that embraces the age of the furniture such as chippy paint or worn finishes. Colors are whites, creams...light, soft colors. Industrial Chic is more of a rustic charm mixed with a modern feel, especially skilled at repurposing functional furniture like office decor, for example, and turning them into living room furniture. Using metals and exposed pipes are just a couple of ways to achieve a modern, industrial feel. There are so many design and decor styles and so many of them play great together, for example Mid Century Modern and Boho, Rustic and Shabby Chic or Primitive. There are no hard fast rules in marrying these genres, if something speaks to you, go for it! There is nothing more interesting and beautiful than a well curated home filled with eclectic treasures that all have a story.
Do you have vintage pieces in your home? What is the history or story behind the piece that intrigued your personal purchase?
Karri - One of my favorite estate sales where I purchased many of my favorites was at the home of an interior designer who traveled extensively in Africa and Asia and her collection was enviable for sure. A kneeling man holding a tray over his head is a favorite end table, beautiful cement pillars from a fireplace surround in New Orleans, original oil painting portraits are always a favorite of mine and my collection is growing.
Heather - One of my favorite finds in my home is a 17th century hope chest that a father created for his daughter before being betrothed. Even the corner brackets have heart carvings. Not only is it a beautiful piece, it also has an interesting history. I also have an 18th century birthing chair from Spain that is always an interesting conversation topic. The craftsmanship is incredible considering what it must have endured!
What is your personal go-to to spruce a room up quickly and inexpensively?
Paint! The easiest way to change the look and feel of a room is by changing the color. If I don't want to make that kind of commitment, change rugs, pillows, plants, and window treatments.
-Kristen Kucharski, Photos by Mike Catuara
