We had driven around the square in Woodstock, determined to continue on our trip to Minneapolis, when either my boyfriend's mom or sister noticed a little shop tucked in among the other stores. They convinced my boyfriend to make another loop around the square and park in front of the quaint shop because we had to check it out. I'm so glad they made us turn around. The Backdrop is a find that is chock full of so many other great finds. This is a gift shop that makes you want to buy a few things for yourself -- which I did. The Backdrop has cards, pillows, trinkets, jewelry, novelty books, home decor and other doo-dads a-plenty. We spent more than the five minutes we told my boyfriend we would take perusing everything. And so many of the finds were very affordable, such as the locket I got for about $15 and a print about beer for $12. The owners -- or at least I believe they are the owners -- were also great to chat with. They had actually been down to Kentucky for Kentucky Crafted, and they had a better knowledge of past Kentucky governors than I have. It was nice to talk to someone who is passionate and easy to talk to about my fave state. It's probably good that I don't live in Woodstock or else I spend way too much money at The Backdrop on a regular basis. read more

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Learning to speak Klingon can be a daunting task. You don't want to pronounce something incorrectly and find you've just called some temperamental Klingon a butthead by accident. So you can see why it came in so handy when I happened upon this cute shop in Woodstock Square that sold a book teaching Klingon. The Backdrop is one of the more unusual home decor shops I've ever come across. I could look for hours and spend a fortune. There are a lot of unique items such as the aforementioned Klingon book (see pic), weird and creepy mounted doll heads, beeswax art, beautiful handmade jewelry, and a ton of truly unique home decor. It is probably my favorite shop in Woodstock. I feel like you can find something for everyone at this store. If issued the challenge, I dare say I could buy for everyone on my Christmas list here. I could certainly buy a bunch for myself! Items found here are moderate to pricey, but you are definitely paying for a carefully curated collection of items, and in my book, unique equals special, so I very much appreciate finding items here I can't elsewhere. Everything here is unique, even items not for sale, like foam core cutouts and painted decor (that you would never believe were made from foam core in a million years), or yard sticks mounted and used as display shelves. Inspiring is the word I would use. You can really get your creative juices flowing after a saunter through the store. You will think of all sorts of home projects with The Backdrop as the inspiration. As a graphic designer, I admire the imaginative and innovative selections and executions. As a Klingon, I demand it. read more

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This shop definitely has a unique mix of items to browse. And I'll give credit to them for really putting attention into display details. Very creative. My 3 stars applies to the unique selection and browsing ability the store has. I've found a lot of neat little random items here over the years... The two downfalls are that it tends to run rather pricey for most items. So you find yourself browsing more than buying... Also...I feel like the owners of the shop can work on being a little more personable with customers. I don't know if they're only looking for a certain "type of shopper" in their store...but I don't know if I've ever been formally greeted when I come in. Even when no other shoppers are present. And when I'm given an annoyed judging side eye look on top of it....and ignored the entire time....well...probably won't be back any time soon. read more

'Things that make you go huh' definetely applies to the Backdrop-this place has the quirkiest, most unique items you'll find in the McHenry County area. If you are looking for a unique item or gift for that hard to buy for in your life- the Backdrop would be a good place to start. Be prepared to spend some money, the Backdrop is not cheap! I'd say if you were on the square, stop in to browse regardless. My only complaint is that the two who I presume own the store- and are always behind the counter (a man and a woman) don't seem to be the friendliest. I thought it was just me, but I'm not the only one to have said so. A neat store nonetheless! read more

This is a store with a trendy urban feel tucked into a shopfront on the Woodstock Square. I love it. This place like a breath of fresh air. No you will not find tacky Precious Moments, Vera Bradley, Pandora or other stuff like that here. What you will find is unique items, clothing and jewelry handmade by artisans with some curated antiques and collectibles mixed in. It is a great place to pick up a gift or a conversation item for your own home. read more

Backdrop is a fun, whimsical store with all kinds of cool and interesting things. Jewelry, clothes, exotic soaps, bric a brac and home accents. Always something new to check out. ALways good prices and worth a look. read more

This place is really cool. Always unique items and everything seems like it was hand-picked for the store. I usually come here to find unique gifts and end up buying something for myself too. They gift wrap everything which is a nice touch. The store also smells great. read more

Really original jewelry: I always find something great to take home. Handmade handbags, pillows, decorative stuff for the home, ceramic tiles, etc. read more

A wonderful place to buy beautiful and unique gifts for the special people in your life or yourself. The Backdrop is always one step ahead of the rest. read more

You can't rely on appearances when walking past this store. I passed it many times and didn't go in, thinking it was a gallery of some sort. I wish I had looked closer! It is a unique store with items you won't find anywhere else in the area. Tip: If you see something you like (especially jewelry) buy it! It is unlikely to be there when you go back later. But if you're lucky, you'll find something else because there always seems to be something new here. read more

The Backdrop is by far the most unique shopping experience around. I love visiting as often as I can. The owners are so kind and generous and are always very supportive of local artists. Be sure to say 'hello' to them when you drop in. read more

I have been coming to this store for years and it just keeps getting better and better! It is a wonderful addition to our Square. The owners Greg and Lisa are friendly and knowledgeable. This store is a joy to visit. read more

Awesome shop with wonderful variety of home, jewelry and gift item. Artsy, fun, and also very affordable. Anything in this shop moved to Chicago would be double to triple the price. The owners are super creative and kind. I've shopped there since they opened and have shopped at their other stores previously owned in Chicago and Arlington Hts. and can't say enough how much I love The Backdrop. Treat yourself and stop by! read more

Great service, unique items, Made in the USA products, cute store and it smells great, too!

I love this shop! I always find something I have to have and I always find gifts for people in my life. The wrap you purchase if it's a gift!! Love that added customer service. I thought the owners were very friendly! read more