Ridgewood, Queens – Martha Bernabe has turned her lifelong fascination with objects into a flourishing business that serves the heart of New York’s creative industry. As the owner of Prop Haus, she runs what she calls a “library of things,” a massive inventory of more than a million items that photographers, advertisers, fashion stylists and beauty professionals can rent for shoots and productions.
From passion to profit
Bernabe’s journey began over a decade ago, when she started sourcing, curating and supplying eclectic props to local creatives. “I love objects. I’m always inspired by stuff,” she says. That enthusiasm, combined with a determined mindset and a tight‑knit community of fellow creators, has allowed her to build a business that not only meets the practical needs of the industry but also celebrates the human stories behind each piece.
A vast, versatile collection
Prop Haus offers everything from vintage blankets used in a recent Gucci campaign to aviation ephemera for a major airline’s social‑media project. The inventory is deliberately diverse, ensuring that any client can find something that fits the aesthetic they are seeking. “Anything that looks super, you know, just human, I think people really gravitate towards,” says Ava Dunn, manager of Prop Haus. “It looks like humans have interacted with it, which is why I think people really like it.”
Community at the core
Beyond the sheer volume of items, the business places a strong emphasis on relationships. “For me, at the end of the day, life is relational,” Bernabe explains. “It’s all about friends, and people, and community, and we really have that here. It’s kind of like a little village.” The team frequently visits estate sales and flea markets together, then spends days sorting and refreshing the inventory back at the shop. This collaborative approach not only keeps the collection current but also reinforces the sense of a supportive creative village.
Supporting local creators
Prop Haus has become a go‑to resource for New York’s bustling visual‑media sector. By providing affordable, high‑quality props, the company helps independent photographers and small agencies compete with larger firms that might otherwise dominate the market. The business model also aligns with traditional family values, offering steady employment and fostering a work environment where teamwork and mutual respect are paramount.
Looking ahead
Bernabe and her team are constantly expanding the library, seeking new items that reflect evolving trends while preserving the timeless, human‑centered pieces that have made the business a staple for local creatives. As they continue to grow, Prop Haus remains a testament to how a passion for objects, combined with faith in community and hard work, can create lasting economic and cultural value for Queens and the broader New York City area.
Original reporting: Allentown News – 6abc Philadelphia — read the source article.
