“A S M U C H A S W E TRY TO BRING THE OUTSIDE IN, WE ALSO TRY TO BALANCE OUR N AT U R A L V I B E W I T H M O D E R N F E AT U R E S .” —DANIELLE QUIGLEY
in New Hampshire or sheddings from deer antlers in Maryland. We once sourced cacti from Joshua Tree here in California!” From there, Fan and Quigley shape their findings into entirely unique products, with no two items being the same, even within a singular line of lamps or wall hangings. The results, according to Quigley, are entirely unpredictable and completely representative of the shapes and colors found in nature; one can expect plenty of curves and soft lines, as well as hues of green, brown and white. The duo also accentuates their wares with contemporary elements. “As much as we try to bring the outside in,” says Quigley, “we also try to balance our natural vibe with modern features. For example, we might use a bit of shiny bronze or rose-gold accents to complement our wood products.” This aesthetic also extends to Wild Habit’s physical location. Fan describes the premises as “a big open space with a clean, modern feel” that complements the earth-hewn tones and textures on display. There is also a dedicated DIY area in which customers can use the natural materials that Fan and Quigley scavenge to make terrarium necklaces, birch bark stamps and any other crafts they can imagine. Not surprisingly, the store and its products have attracted artists and “plenty of transplants from Los Angeles and elsewhere who are drawn to this woodsy style,” says Quigley. Many families have
also embraced Wild Habit’s free-spirited creations; according to Quigley, “We have a strong community here in Oceanside who contribute to its ‘gritty and pretty’ vibe. We know our customers by name, and we love that people get to take nature with them when they leave our shop.” Wild Habit is equally dedicated to teaching its customers “the importance of respecting nature and leaving the wild to be wild,” says Quigley. Not only do she and Fan practice recycling and environmentallyfriendly sourcing in their sojourns, but they also promote charities that will give back to the landscapes that they adore. “We do our best to be as sustainable as possible in designing and selling our goods,” says Fan. “Ten percent of our proceeds go to an Arbor Day non-profit, and one tree is planted for every single item we sell at Wild Habit.” As 2019 dawns and new adventures beckon, Quigley and Fan anticipate reaching out to new customers and going bigger and better with their craftsmanship. To that end, the women can look to their own customers for inspiration—or rather, their customers reach out to them. “People often send us stuff that they find on the ground,” laughs Fan, “or else they’ll bring the material into the shop and try to make something out of it. We keep up to trend by observing what interests our clients.” It certainly seems that the ladies of Wild Habit won’t be at risk of losing their customers’ interest any time soon.
