Ashley Choate, owner of the boutique wedding rental company Blush Creek Specialty Rentals in western Idaho, prides herself on finding one-of-a-kind vintage furniture and décor to make every event she helps to design and furnish unique. Her ever-growing collection includes found treasures from local antique stores, garage sales and auction houses.
In the feature tablescape, Choate creates an inviting, simple and refined setting for any special occasion. The peach and yellow flowers beckon guests in, inviting them to sit down and soak up the sun.
The bouquets’ bright hues provided inspiration for the vases, floral napkins and vintage 1960s glassware (which Choate found on Etsy). The place cards and custom menus, affixed to antique clipboards, give an added touch of personalization to every place setting. The mixed wood chairs pair tastefully with the custom-built, 5-foot-by-5-foot farm table made by her husband and business partner. “He’s the Chip to my Joanna,” Choate jokes, referencing HGTV reality stars Joanna and Chip Gaines.
Ste. Chapelle Winery, located in Caldwell, Idaho, was the perfect backdrop for the photo shoot of the table décor, framing the design with orchards and rows of grapevines.
Opened in 2014, Blush Creek is not only a labor of love for Choate’s family, but it pays homage to her childhood as well. “I grew up watching my mom repurpose furniture and was inspired watching her make something new out of something old,” Choate says. “Furniture is something my heart was always drawn to. I’m always looking for pieces that need a little extra love.”
Choate says she’s a “sucker for a good story,” seeking out pieces that have been in families for generations. She’s quick to ask for the history behind her purchases and shares that past with her customers. “When I meet with prospective clients, I’ll tell them, ‘This is my sweetheart farm table from India that was used in wedding ceremonies,’ or ‘These vintage tufted chairs came from Nebraska to Idaho and back again, because Grandma couldn’t part with them when she moved.’ ”
According to Choate, our featured tablescape could be used for a birthday celebration, bridal or baby shower, wedding fête, cozy luncheon or “an excuse to get the family together for a meal.”
