Sometimes a design request comes through my inbox (or comment section) that I’m unable to answer. For example, many people ask me how we keep our home free of toddler clutter (we don’t) and how to keep our couch free of scratches (again, we just roll with it). I myself turn to the internet to solve decor problems of my own, like how to buff those scratches out of my leather couch (hello, coconut oil) and what to do about finding customizable window coverings that aren’t intimidating – both from a budget and experience standpoint. What I didn’t realize was how insanely expensive high-quality, custom curtains and shades are these days. I kid you not, I recently learned that traditionally, custom shades are marked up 250% by the time it reaches the consumer.

I first stumbled upon Barn & Willow on Instagram. Unlike traditional retailers in their market, Barn & Willow sells exclusively online, removing unnecessary overhead costs. Their high-quality custom drapes, curtains, and roman shades are designed in-house working directly with manufacturers, simultaneously skipping over the middleman. This was appealing to me, so I quickly signed on to order myself a couple of fabric samples and sat on making a decision for a while. Turns out, even after you find the perfect resource, selecting the ideal window covering is much more than just how they look.

Having small children, I was juggling a few factors:

1. Lighting – As a bright-light fanatic, the abundance of light in our home was a lead selling point when we first toured. Now that we have two little ones, who function on an atypical sleep schedule, Joe and I have had to begin exploring alternative window coverings that keep the sun from shining in on even the sunniest of days.
2. Safety – August recently reached the “get into anything and everything” stage, turning Joe and I into a full-blown accident-prevention committee. So when we make major design decisions, we have to be conscientious of the August risk-factor. Super inconvenient, but super real.
3. Privacy – TBH, I probably should have taken this factor more seriously long ago considering I’ve been exposing myself on a nightly basis… Hellooo St. Paul! But I don’t think I had the willpower to say no to the beautiful gauzy curtains that once covered our living room windows.

With the kiddos needs in mind, it was clear it was time get coverings installed. All I had to do was select the style (roman shade, yay!), the amount of light I wanted to come through, the fabric, and include my measurements. After all the mental energy I had put into planning before I found Barn & Willow, it was almost anticlimactic how easy it was! Two weeks later, we were enjoying the coziness and privacy that comes with having the roman shades I had searched for.

If you’re looking to try Barn & Willow, we have some more info for you. Not only is Barn & Willow committed to lowering costs, but also to reducing the overall stress and headache involved in the buying process. Without having to enter any credit card information, shoppers can select five 5×5” sample swatches (accompanied with privacy lining) and have them sent directly to their doorstep in 3 days. The customer is then able to compare and contrast various options until they find exactly what they’re looking for.

Through the development of their sizing calculator, Barn & Willow has also tackled the measurement nightmare known to accompany shopping for custom coverings. The sizing calculator walks customers through a step-by-step process until all necessary information is compiled. Don’t fret first-timers, Barn & Willow even provides measurement suggestions like the average distance between a window frame and curtain rod (generally 6-8” above).

I am always inspired when I see other businesses pushing the envelope in their sector, filling in holes where they see fit. Barn & Willow makes shopping for custom window coverings simple, without breaking your bank. Best of all, Birdie can now savor an afternoon nap without being interrupted by the sun gleaming through our windows. That’s what I like to call a 2-for-1. P.S. Enter promo code BW&WD at checkout to score 10% off your first Barn & Willow purchase.

Kate Arends

Kate is the founder of Wit & Delight. She is currently learning how to play tennis and is forever testing the boundaries of her creative muscle. Follow her on Instagram at @witanddelight_.