1Are the wires and areas of construction completely hidden and detailed out?
The wires are all concealed within the antlers and the places where it is attached and constructed are virtually invisible. We take great pride in our ability to artistically mask our holes that are created when running wire and screwing the fixture together.
2What size chandelier and how many lights should I order?
Depending on the size of the room, you have various options. We create each piece generally with higher wattage bulbs and highly recommend dimmers for them as well. Mad River Antler uses an interior design work sheet that we would be more than happy to share with you. Just contact us at and we will email you our Interior Tips Sheet.
3How long will it take to get my custom antler chandelier after I order it?
We often have some of our more popular creations available in stock or in our gallery which could be shipped out immediately. Custom creations will usually ship in 4 – 6 weeks after it is ordered. We email pictures to our customers as we create your piece. This sets us apart from the other antler lighting companies.
4Are animals harmed to get the antlers?
Absolutely Not! Mad River Antler only uses “Shed” antlers or “Drops” as the locals call them. Moose, Deer and Elk “Shed” their antlers once a year, usually during late winter early spring. Ken calls it “Nature’s renewable resource.” The key is finding them before the mice, squirrels and porcupines chew on them. The outside elements such as the sun will bleach and crack them if left in the wild for several seasons as well. Thus, finding an antler in the forest or field with no chew marks and unbleached by the sun, RARE.
5Where do you find all of your antlers?
Antlers have become a big business since they are very unique and one of a kind. Mad River Antler does find some but purchases the majority of shed antler from recreational hikers and shed hunters who have trained their dogs to find them (see: www.deersheddog.com). All shed antlers are obtained legally and from highly ethical sources. Mad River Antler is always on the look out for additionally sources. If you or a friend have shed antlers that have been obtained legally and ethically, we would be interested in hearing from you.
6What sets you apart from other antler chandelier companies?
Mad River Antler is owned and operated by artisan Ken Kenia. Ken believes and delivers great customer service and has a great attention to design and details. He believes that each piece that he creates is a focal point of the room. Each piece is artistically designed for perfect symmetry and balance. Each antler is cleaned, sealed and blended with other antlers to bring out the natural beauty of each piece when finished. As a added feature, Ken emails each customer pictures of the entire creation process for all custom orders. Our customers have considered our work heirloom quality to be enjoyed for generations to come.
7Where do you find all of your antlers?
Antlers have become a big business since they are very unique and one of a kind. Mad River Antler does find some but purchases the majority of shed antler from recreational hikers and shed hunters who have trained their dogs to find them (see: www.deersheddog.com). All shed antlers are obtained legally and from highly ethical sources. Mad River Antler is always on the look out for additionally sources. If you or a friend have shed antlers that have been obtained legally and ethically, we would be interested in hearing from you.
8What is the difference between the real antlers and the cast antlers?
Cast antler reproductions are generally made of a resin and are therefore very light. They have not yet been able to match the natural brown hues that are in real antlers. These hues are a result of months in the forests rubbing against trees. Cast antler has a yellowish color thing going on and each one is the same in charter and shape.
Real antlers are very challenging to work with. When we create a piece, we must have many antlers to work with. Ken calls it, “getting the right antlers to work together.” The end result is a truly one of a kind piece of art that will be enjoyed for generations to come. Lastly, Mad River Antler does NOT and will NOT ever use cast resin reproductions
Real antlers are very challenging to work with. When we create a piece, we must have many antlers to work with. Ken calls it, “getting the right antlers to work together.” The end result is a truly one of a kind piece of art that will be enjoyed for generations to come. Lastly, Mad River Antler does NOT and will NOT ever use cast resin reproductions