Welcome to Oregon & welcome to Leann DiPaola's mesmerizing, light-filled home, filled with incredible statement pieces!
We talked to Leann about her Portland-based concept store, Wild Cactus Boutique, tips & tricks on being a business owner, and all things interior design :)
Tell us about you! How did you start Wild Cactus Boutique?
My name is Leann DiPaola and I am originally from Cleveland, Ohio but now I live just right outside of Portland, Oregon. I started Wild Cactus by thriting as a hobby in my free time while working 2 jobs. I was managing a small boutique and started selling my vintage in the boutique along with selling at pop ups and markets. I really wanted to open up a shop and one thing led to another and here we are! We just celebrated our 4th year in our Portland space.
Tell us about your creative process. Where do you find inspiration and how do you curate items you want to highlight in your store?
I am very attracted to soft shapes, colors & patterns. It makes me feel calm and happy so that is how I have curated my shop and my home. I love a blank canvas and to build it from the ground up. I find inspiration from nature, books, travel, and people. I have strong Italian roots so I have been very inspired by Italian architecture & lifestyle lately. I curate the items in my store based on the brand story, branding, the people who represent the brand, sustainability, eye-catching styles, just to name a few! A lot of the brands we carry are small, independent women makers.
What’s one piece of advice you always go back to when it comes to your career?
You have to ride the waves. Owning a small business is a constant rollercoaster of emotions, highs & lows so I have to remind myself to keep working hard and believe in what we are doing.
What makes a space feel like home?
I would say first of all, the feeling you have when you are there! I think by keeping your space clean and organized and choosing the furniture the lighting that feels comforting to you is the way to go. Investing in pieces that you will still love for years to come instead of what is cool at the moment because you may not like that item in a few years. Oh and lots of plants & books. Home to me feels like a little sanctuary from the outside world.
What’s your best tip for achieving a sense of balance in your home?
Natural light! Here in Oregon, it rains a lot and I am a sun worshipper so having skylights has been a game changer for me! The interior of my house is mostly white so I think by adding a balanced amount of color and patterns with accessories like the Clr Shop blankets, displaying keepsakes from travels and adding art on the walls.
What are some of your home essentials?
Cozy blankets, candles, top notch olive oil.
What are you looking forward to in the next year?
Getting married next summer! Wedding planning has been super fun for me.
More of Leann & Wild Cactus: Leann's Instagram / Wild Cactus Instagram / Website