Meet the Vendor
Dana Muhlke, owner of Twig and Tarnish, repurposes vintage vessels by transforming them into stunning live succulent arrangements. You’ll find her artistry at The Hill Antique Market in St. Louis, centrally displayed near the checkout counter.
The Hill Antique Market: Love the name of your business! How did you choose it?
Muhlke: I wanted a name that was memorable, easy off-the-tongue and spoke to the juxtaposition of the old and new aspect of the merchandise.
THAM: Tell us about the artistic vision behind your one-of-a-kind succulent arrangements.
Muhlke: I tend to curate vintage that leans more towards the industrial/farmhouse genre. I also choose vessels that I know will work well with live plants and water—like copper, brass, pewter and tin. I’m a sucker for an antique, lidded tin with old typography and branding. I want the pieces to tell their story—their history—while showing off their new, bold, succulent companions. The contrast of old and new is what makes them special.
THAM: How was the idea for pairing vintage vessels and succulents planted?
Muhlke: I’ve been antiquing for 20 years, but just for my own home. My constantly growing collection of vintage goods and my love for succulents sparked the idea of combining the two and creating a business to sell them. Succulents are all the rage right now. Businesses sell them in new pots, but no one was doing the vintage angle so I decided to fill that exciting gap. They’re perfect for home decor, gifts and honoring special occasions. I love that these pieces become heirlooms, keepsakes that live on.
THAM: Obviously, you love to spend time antiquing. Do you have a prized collection?
Muhlke: I’m obsessed with old English crocks, especially the marmalade pieces, circa 1860s. I have many in my own personal collection and have planted a select few and sold them at T&T popups.
THAM: What’s your favorite feature of The Hill Antique Market?
Muhlke: There is no other market like it in St. Louis. So many incredible vendors offer the best in curated vintage with an artistic edge. And the space itself is stunning…so much history! Not to mention it’s attached to a fantastic restaurant and wine bar.
When she’s not creating beautiful succulent arrangements in found vintage vessels, Dana runs her own graphic design business. Her pieces are also sold at Warson Woods Antique Gallery, The White Rabbit and Urban Matter as well as online for contactless local pickup. Follow Twig and Tarnish on Instagram.
All booth images ©2021 Dana Muhlke.
