We had the good fortune of connecting with Cass Schulz and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Cass, where are your from? We’d love to hear about how your background has played a role in who you are today?
I grew up on a farm in small-town Kansas. My parents were contractors and farmers; while my dad grew the crops and reconstructed the old houses we lived in, my mom added her interior touch to them. I’m pretty sure that if there had been HGTV back then, they would have been the original Chip and Joanna Gaines. That must be what inspired my love for design (I hope that I have an ounce of my mom’s good taste). Growing up on a farm teaches you amazing work ethic, which I’ve carried with me throughout my life, especially as I’ve started Crushed Velvet and building my network. In fact, my favorite quote is, “the harder I work, the luckier I get”. And with the prospect of now working with my son…well that’s as lucky as I can get.

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Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
We’re fresh on the scene, so just getting here has been the challenge. I knew I wanted to do something different, very boutique and custom so it’s taken over a year to curate all the pieces and match the puzzle pieces to create interesting lounges and tablescapes. Driving far and beyond for Facebook Marketplace finds, to exploring vintage stores, and so much more…it’s certainly been a labor of love. Through the process, I’ve found that people want anything but a mundane wedding in Denver which means everyone is really receptive to beautiful and repurposed decor. I had my own bias towards vintage furniture before, and finally feel like I’ve found my calling and community of people who love it with me.

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Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
We have so much to offer here!

Sunday – South Pearl Street’s Farmers Market -great local treats and fresh produce, we’ll eat our way through
Monday – Let’s pretend the Nuggets are still in the play offs and go to a game. They are my favorite (we’re season ticket holders)! Let’s go to Uchi before!
Tuesday – Hang out at Union Station while everyone else is at work and have lunch at Mercantile Dining and Provision, we’ll end the day at the Barcelona Wine Bar
Wednesday – My favorite place to shop is the South Broadway corridor with the antique stores, vintage shops and thrift stores. I’ve bought much of our inventory there. Cafe Brazil for dinner! It’s been one of my favorites for years and my favorite is the MOQUECA DE PEIXE
Thursday – We’ve been eating like kings so let’s run (or for me walk) the stairs at Red Rocks and have brunch at The Cow. Morrison is such a fun little town …you could spend hours and it’s in my back yard. Let’s catch a show at the Savoy (I’m dying to style an event there!)
Friday – saving some of the best for last. The Denver Botanical Garden’s and our very own Michelin star restaurants, the Wolfe’s Tailor for dinner (one of my friends is a co owner)
Saturday – You can’t hit Denver without a concert at Red Rocks!

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The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My sons and bonus daughter, Graeme, Quinn and Milena, and my husband, Kevin for their support, muscles and willingness to build, lift, store….. The Copper Quail in Chattanoga for their mentorship and inspiration. Moss Denver, who were a wonderful birthplace to launch our company!

Website: https://www.crushedvelvetrentals.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crushedvelvet.rentals?igsh=dmlnOGw3ZXc3eWx4&utm_source=qr

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/crushedvelvetrentals?mibextid=LQQJ4d

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Image Credits
Andrés Molina, Nomadicfitlust Photography
Brogan Resch Photography
Graeme Schulz

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutColorado is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.