Our Story

Bibelot Owner Helen Rutledge founded the store in 2019 as an antique and vintage home goods store filled with objects from all over the world. With a deep appreciation for vintage and mid-century modern lamps, Helen began noticing a need in the market for replacement lampshades that were either missing or damaged and were difficult to find. She decided to tackle the task by creating custom shades from exquisite fabrics in her store. With the onset of Covid and lockdowns affecting many businesses, Helen took advantage of the lull in a surprising way, pivoting to create a new product that has since revolutionized her business. Each shade is unique, one-of-a-kind, and crafted with artistry and innovation. While her focus originally started with creating a space for bespoke home goods, her custom lampshade service quickly became the star of the show.  Thus, Bibelot, now her design studio, was born. 

Prior to Bibleot, the Alabama native’s love for fashion drew her to New York, where she worked for powerful fashion designer Diane von Furstenberg before exploring her passion for cooking. After working as a chef in several restaurants in New York City, her journey led her to Charleston, where she worked as a marketing and public relations professional for a restaurant company. But she was drawn to the history of Charleston. She grew as the Development Director for the Historic Charleston Foundation and started the Charleston Antique Show. After decades of working in the restaurant industry and then for the Historic Charleston Foundation, Helen was drawn to launch her own venture.  Now She scours the globe for rare textiles and transforms them into bespoke, handmade lampshades that bring life to any space. Come experience the beauty of Bibelot’s designs; marrying a passion for design, textiles, and lighting to create something truly special.

COME VISIT OUR STORE AT 680 KING STREET IN DOWNTOWN CHARLESTON, SC.