H.A. Hang: Alex Cahanap

The coolest part of our business has always been our clients. We’re amazed by all they do: CEOs, world travelers, authors, inventors, entrepreneurs, newscasters, artists, pro athletes, musicians, caretakers, and philanthropists.

We launched this series to share the stories of our clients and form connections within the H.A. community. Enjoy!

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Home Appetit: What is Citrine?
Alex Cahanap: We’re an event rental company and space. We curate tableware looks—plates, glassware, flatware, napkins—and rent them out. There are a few rental companies in the area, but we’re a specialty shop. Most of our dinnerware is different—lots of funky styles, shapes, and colors—catering to a more eclectic market. We store and maintain everything in our studio in East Kensington. We also host dinner parties there!

How did you get started?
My background is in art direction and film—I studied at Temple and then worked in branding for a while. I was part of a team that programmed a space called The Viaduct (near Spring Garden) one summer, hosting pop-up dinner parties. I fell in love with the event styling side of things. Later, I began freelancing in the wedding world and realized there was a market gap for specialty rentals. 

What do you love most about putting together the look of the events?
I love that moment right after you’ve set a table—or several tables—when everything is perfect, and there’s a quiet lull before guests arrive. And getting to see people’s reactions is amazing. Coming from a digital branding background, I really value the tangible, real-time connection and the joy of people experiencing your work in person.

Any spring events you’re excited about?
We’ve got a really exciting one coming up that hasn’t been announced yet—Fleur, a new restaurant opening soon in East Kensington. Their team is doing a menu preview at Citrine’s studio, and the fun challenge for me is creating a setting that reflects the energy and feel of a space that doesn’t exist yet. It’s about giving guests a first taste, not just of the food, but of the whole experience Fleur is bringing to the neighborhood. And since they’re only a few blocks from Citrine, it feels like welcoming a future neighbor in the best way possible—around the table.

You work with restaurants, too?
Yes! We work with restaurants, but also with venues, caterers, and private clients. Restaurants are such a fun niche for us because, unlike larger rental companies, we don’t have rental minimums. That means we can operate at a much smaller scale, making it easy for restaurants to bring in unique pieces for an intimate private dinner or a special event without committing to a massive order. It’s a great fit for us, too—working at that scale lets us really focus on the creative details that make a table feel special.

Where do you find new items?
I have a few go-to manufacturers that produce custom items when I can’t find exactly what I’m looking for on the market. I draw inspiration from travel, nature, and wherever else I spot something that sparks an idea. I’m hoping to partner with local ceramicists and glass blowers soon. It can be more expensive to produce locally, but supporting local makers is on my wish list.

Are you originally from Philly?
I grew up in South Jersey, but I’ve been in Philly since college. It’s a fantastic city for launching a small business—there’s a strong community and people really rally around local companies.

What are some of your favorite hangout spots in Philly?
Hate to admit it, but I’m at Middle Child Clubhouse at least once a weekend. It’s an easy walk from my place in Old Kensington, and I keep going back for the casual energy and a really solid burger. Otherwise, any spot with a pool table and a good drink list will get me to stick around for a while.

What’s something that has surprised you about running your own business?
I didn’t come from an events background, so I had no idea how big and robust Philly’s events industry is—both in the city and out in the suburbs. I’ve discovered all these stunning venues just over the bridge in New Jersey and further out in Pennsylvania. It’s opened my eyes to how much is out there and how creative you can get with events.

Follow Citrine on Instagram.