Tags: Dry flower arrangement Helen Co Helen Salingay Co Meghann Hernandez Metro Mom Product Photography Product styling Prop Styling The Curious H The Curious H General Store
Book your next photo shoot or stock up on prop styling essentials at The Curious H General Store in Davao City.
Looking for holiday trimmings, styling props, or any thingamabob you can add to your interiors? Head over to The Curious H General Store, where you’ll find a range of well-curated goods from homewares, draperies, foliage, paper stock, basketry, decors and more. There’s definitely something in store for you, whether you’re into product photography, tablescapes, set designing, gifting, or simply nurturing — or enabling — a newfound hobby (hello, “plantitas” and “platetitas”).
Since its opening in June 2020, shutterbugs and hobbyists frequent the shop to source prop styling must-haves and get their hands on fresh drops. Most of the novelty items and best sellers are available in limited quantities, thus the need to constantly check on product updates and new displays.
As it opened doors for artistic expressions and cultivated creativity among locals, the store itself has become a go-to shoot location. The playful contrast of natural light, muted tones, and raw surfaces add mood and character to any photo, while the homey display and setup make for a scenic backdrop for both still life and lifestyle shots.
Passion project
The curator and creative behind this concept store is Helen Salingay-Co, whose flair for styling and photography piqued the interest of the locals, online followers and spectators.
“It has always been a dream to have my own playground,” shares the mom of two. “I longed for a place where I can freely play around with my precious props and style my own wall. I have accumulated props over the years and it has taken a great part of our home.”
What began as a plan to archive and stow her immense collection of props into a dedicated space later turned into a full-blown construction project. “I decided to pursue this passion business and put up my own store.”
Helen’s supportive family rallied behind her from the ground up and helped in every way they could. She was happy with the progress they made each week, notwithstanding the unforeseen challenges that pushed the completion two months later than expected. Nothing dampened her enthusiasm and excitement. She always looked at the silver lining—the blessing that was her dream project taking shape, in the midst of a global crisis.
Creative pursuits
For those who do not know, The Curious H. is a product of years of learning and self-discovery.
“My curiosity and fascination with ordinary everyday things started five years ago. This fuelled my interest in photography. The works of Craftsmith Guild (see @mobudays on Instagram) inspired me to elevate my style and flatlays. I set myself up to explore, study, and join prop styling and photography workshops in Manila. Every available time was spent on practice to improve my craft.”
“At home, I would style portions of our walls and shoot my flatlays and props in my little nook. Soon, I realized I needed a bigger wall as my canvas. My dreams of sharing inspiration and creativity were just too big for such a small space. I was also bent on establishing my own brand—something that would represent what I do and love. My dear friend, Mia de Lara from Craftsmith Guild, helped me with all the nitty-gritty of branding and identity. The experience was both challenging and fun. It paved the way for The Curious H to take off.”
Place of infinite possibilities
The Curious H General Store is, primarily, a retail ground with functional and decorative pieces that spark and add joy to any scene.
“This little shop of things is designed to ignite curiosity, add life to your place, or simply let you see the beauty in the ordinary. We have merchandise suitable for prop styling for any kind of space or photography project. There are also props for rent, in case someone wants to shoot and style their products inside the shop.”
“We have an area for rent for photo shoots, using my current setup. In addition, there is a small space that can accommodate intimate workshops or meetings.”
Other than setting up the ground for photo sessions and selling curated finds, Helen offers customized gift wrapping, dry flower arrangement, and space and event styling. Her creative services also include product styling and photography for brands looking to amplify their digital storefront.
“When the situation improves and time will permit, I’d be thrilled to conduct workshops to all those interested to learn and hone their craft.”
The Curious H General Store is at #15 and #16 La Verna High Street, La Verna Bypass Road, Davao City. For inquiries and updates, email hello@thecurioush.com or visit @the.curious.h on Instagram.
Story published on my Metro Mom column in Edge Davao newspaper. Photos courtesy of Helen Salingay-Co.
