My High Point Market Experience: Spring 2015

Yes, High Point Furniture Market has come and gone again. Almost 3 weeks ago already/only….but the right time to revisit what the  Market experience was for me…..one that has evolved over the  12 years I’ve been making my way to High Point twice/year for the “next 6 days that count”

Market is always always a jam packed, exhausting, yet exhilarating, time. To be in the midst  of so much creativity, inspiration, design… all mixed in with the adrenaline produced when good business is being done…well, it’s a recipe for an incredible experience.

As always we enjoyed seeing those that came to visit at our permanent Showroom @ 741 West Ward, with highlight being our Sunday Lunch n Learn with Deb Barrett.  Thank you to Deb, who left her flock of VIP Inside Design Tour Participants (what a GREAT group of folks she and Jackie Von Tobel had under their care for this inaugural tour)  to come and give us an info packed World Tour on Trends.

 It was also great to  meet new/reconnect with old, customers and friends from our satellite space in the Antique and Design Center….AND if I can, a shout out to the gals that run the show at the Antique and Design Center. What a class act!  I can’t effuse enough with regards to the “experience” of being an exhibitor  there…..the icing on the cake being the wandering minstrels that stroll by each afternoon. Had a little fun with a customer harmonizing to You are My Sunshine as the musician of the hour strummed away on his banjo. I believe it was recorded! I took to calling what they provided as a “concierge” Market experience. They don’t miss a beat and are attentive to the end…Love you ladies. And love what you provide and do for your  Antique and Design exhibitors and shoppers alike. Bravo!

My Chinese Antiques accented beautifully the Chesterfield Sofa line I represent…or vice versa if you wish.  And porcelain pieces and glass cut mirrors from C & S Acosta topped it all off…that, and some peacock feathers.🙂  Have been selling my antiques wholesale for 15 years, but this was the FIRST market presenting wholesale pricing to the line of, made in the UK, Chesterfield Sofas, by Distinctive Chesterfields,  and what a great reception we had! If you didn’t get to visit the showroom, you can check out pix here.  

In addition to all the wonderful people we were able to introduce our collection to, it was great to  be interviewed  for an article on antiques/repurposed products that will be published in the  New Homes & Ideas magazine in the summer/fall. Thanks to dear customer/friend Linda Zoffer of Del Zio Designs for making that happen.

The High Point Junior League did a showhouse, which coincided with Market. Happy to have been able to attend the grand opening gala with a bevy of my friends to take in this amazing project and  to support those talented Designers that I know and love that worked so hard to make this a showcase showhouse….Libby Langdon, Kara Cox, Lisa Mende, Traci Zeller and Madcap Cottage….just the ones I personally know but they ALL  really outdid themselves and I am sure all are excited for all the money that they helped raise for the Junior League.  My Showhouse photo album here. 

                       

                         

Kelly Wearstler’s discussion with the Trim Queen for the WITHIT Sunday breakfast was yet another highlight of Market….as was seeing my friend, the Trim Queen herself, present a CEU course on , of course, Trim,  at the Robert Allen Showroom. Accolades to a wonderful presentation Jana!

Soooo many product launches by amazing interior designers/many whom I know. Couldn’t get to them all/afraid to list out for fear of who I would miss. Simply wow, wow and wow.

Similarly it wasn’t in the cards for me to visit, and take pix to # and instagram, as many of my fellow business owners/exhibitors that I consider as friends as I would’ve liked. Was nice to check in with the folks at  Van Collier, John Strauss, Legends of Asia, Touchwood UK, Dunes and Duchess, New Growth Designs,  Taylor Burke, Cotton and Quill and Red Egg….but so many more that I was unable to get to. A smattering of photos here.

                  

                   

For those that are familiar with Market, the shopping/selling part of the day ends only to be picked up by the multitude of parties that are hosted by the various showrooms. And for me it didn’t end there, for, as at the end of it all I retreated to house full of the coolest housemates, yes we were all friends before we became housemates, a girl could ask for. You women, each of you, inspire, encourage, uplift and love so freely and contribute  greatly to my sense of well being…which can be rocky at times in the midst of it all, and are an integral part of my Market Experience.

So  we bid farewell to High Point Market Spring 2015 and hello to the many doors that opened during Market…. leading us all to further growth of our selves and our respective businesses. Yup, full plate. Onward.

Ruth

Shop High Point! We’re Here for You!

Although I don’t live in High Point, NC, the physical side of my business  does….a presence that has evolved over the past decade….starting with showing at High Point Market in 2004 and growing my commitment when I moved my inventory from Maine to High Point in 2007.

It’s been an interesting ride these past years, as I reluctantly weaned myself out of an “official” showroom, after having had such a presence for 6 years, but it was the right thing to do….with warehouse in place, it now would serve dual purpose and be my showroom as well.

  

May I digress just a tad and say how HOT the ZAAR showroom looked this past Market? We rocked it out of the park and you can expect more of the same next year. THANK YOU, Alicia Connolly of Alicia Connolly Designs, Amanda Brown of ID by AB, and Kimberly Stone of Sans Souci Sisters, for all the work you all put into such. You are ALL the Best.  Didn’t see us at Market? Check out pix here. 

From the get go I have described ZAAR Design Center as my “evolving entity”….and that it has been, and continues to be…and I’m ok with that.

But nuts and bolts is that through this evolution my premise has always been and continues to be….

1. there is great value in a home furnishings business to be based in High Point….there is a certain cache in being in what many people know it as, that being the “Furniture Capital of the World”.

2. there is value in collaborating with other companies to jointly showcase product….but not every company is a good fit….for a myriad of reasons.

3. there is value in making yourself available for To The Trade Business between Markets….and in my case, to my Retail audience as well.

Yes, the face of High Point continues to change, and others  join me in the quest to show the Value in doing/promoting business from there. High Point Design Center, of which I am a member, has at it’s core, the promoting of year round, to the trade, business.  They work tirelessly to serve this mission and encourage Showrooms to be Open and Designers to come and get some great uninterrupted one on one with the HPDC members….see the impressive list of participating members here.

Similarly the High Point Convention and Visitors Bureau is chiming in/working hard to bring both elements together….retail and trade….offering consumers a Directory of Designers to work with and navigate them through what is an overwhelming array of companies available to serve them and their furniture and accessory needs. Accolades to them for their beautiful new website which highlights the Gift High Point is to so many.

There is also a  growing number of folks working to revitalize the retail side of business in this town….just wanting to bring your attention to 2 new businesses right here.

MadCap Cottage:  128 Church Ave. Ph: (917) 513-9143

 

The gents at MadCap hardly need an introduction as if you haven’t heard of them yet then you are living under a rock….or maybe more aptly put, not connected with them on Social Media. They are one of the newest and coolest retail outlets in High Point and are very entrenched in doing their part, and so much more, to revitalize retail in High Point….in addition to having a great repertoire to shop from, they will also point you in the direction of many other places to quite simply support shopping local. Stop by and shop….you won’t be disappointed.

English Home Interiors: 1345 North Main St. Suite 101. Ph: 336 887 0161

A store of much smaller scale but equal in relevance. British antiques and reproductions…customizations available too…. from a company that has been doing business in High Point for over a decade/but first time with a retail store front.  Located in the cute little mall on the corner of Main (entrance on Main) and Lexington….stones throw from Emerywood restaurant…a GREAT place to dine or to have cater an event.…with retail and trade pricing available.

C & S Acosta: 1210 W Market Center Dr. (336) 882-2233

To the Trade only, bring your designer and you’re all set, for those not in the trade, and although not a retail store, a true”find” of a place. You know, one of those “secrets” that shouldn’t be a secret.  Don’t get frustrated finding them, as it is worth it….just that their 20,000 square foot warehouse/showroom is tucked in off the street a tad. Call number above, or call me, and I’ll help direct you their way. Massive selection of Asian porcelain, bronze ware and mirrors. You can get an idea of what they have by checking out these photos, or swing by ZAAR , as we have a selection of their products showing/available to purchase.

ZAAR Design Center: 741 West Ward Ave.  866 868 9227/ZAAR

Open the 2nd Wednesday of every month/otherwise by appointment. What can I say which you don’t already know? My baby.

Wonderful and vast collection of Chinese Antiques and line of reproductions. If I don’t have what you’re looking for, just ask. Containers coming out of China quarterly.

 

Home to UK based company, Distinctive Chesterfields….where you will find the true blue British Chesterfield sofa. And if we don’t have what you want on the floor, we custom make/shipping container full from UK to US every month.  Check out what is on the floor here.

Home to VA based company, Bellascenda….THE original company making furniture to hide your flat screen TVs.

And as bonus, cash and carry product available from Elizabeth Lucas Company….artwork…. Flambeau…lighting… New Growth Designs….artificial floral, and C & S Acosta…you already know.

Yes, High Point has many layers and so many opportunities for you to fill your home with fine furnishings and accessories.

Should you find yourself wending your way there, you might want to check any and/or all of the above…each offering something unique…each supporting business in High Point by making the commitment to base their businesses in nowhere but High Point NC.

Shop High Point! You’ll be glad you did/we’re here for you.
Ruth

High Point Market “Colour Me Happy” @ ZAAR

ZAAR Design Centre is always about Color, and Fall 2014 Market is no exception. What is exceptional about this Market is that we are able to top  off  our affinity for color with a flourish by having the fabulous and dynamic expert on color Maria Killam, who also happens to be a fellow Canadian/and as such that is NOT a typo in the word “color”, as our guest speaker for our Sunday Lunch n Learn.

I had the pleasure of meeting Maria through WITHIT, “THE” networking group for Women in the Home Furnishings Industry, and am thrilled beyond words that she has agreed to make time,to her already busy Market agenda, to be our speaker.  Drum roll please, as you read these credentials…

She is an internationally sought after colour expert, design blogger, author, trainer, decorator and stylist. She is passionate about all things colour and design, subjects she writes about extensively on her  highly successful blog, Colour Me Happy.

Join us: Lunch n Learn

Sunday October 19th, 2014

12:00 – 1:30

RSVP Appreciated/Not Required

ruth@zaardesigncenter.com/ call or text 207 838 2675

Deconstructing Whites for Interiors |The Essentials Every Designer Must Know

* Discover the 5 essential categories of Whites and how to discover which is right for walls, trim, ceilings and cabinets.

* Learn to help clients understand the “why” behind your color     choices and how to confidently specify the right white.

* Get a sneak peak of her latest ebook “White is Complicated- A Decorators Guide to Choosing the Right White Every Time”

      ____________________________________________

You don’t want to miss this opportunity to experience Maria, her energy, charm and learn from her expertise, which she passionately shares.

Want to get to know her better/If you don’t already….

Twitter: Follow her, along with the 4,803 followers she currently has. @mariakillam

Facebook: Happy times with her community of almost 9,000 followers at Maria Killam Colour & Design

…and of course Pinterest is a hotspot for her 13, 641 fans to be checking out her, quite simply as Maria Killam.

Nor is it any surprise that she was named “best of 2014” on Houzz.

…and, of course, there is her blog. Posting on whites, here, on How DO you Know if A White is Cool or Warm?

Yes, in addition to ALL of above, she is a social media maven.

Did I already say that having her at ZAAR is a really cool thing? Don’t miss the opportunity to meet, greet and learn from Maria. As hostess for the event, I look forward to welcoming you.

Ruth

Distinctive Chesterfields: US Showroom @ ZAAR Design Center

AND……

……it’s time for the Fall 2013 High Point Furniture Market, THE Trade show of all Trade shows.  We at ZAAR Design Center are excited to serve as this UK based company’s US  showroom, prepping ourselves for Market….making ourselves available for our trade AND retail  customers alike.

Yes, next week is all about being present for our “To The Trade” customers, but I would like to also extend an official invitation for any of our retail customers to come and visit us between the hours of 9:00- 5:00 from Wednesday October 15th, through to, and yes including the weekend, to Thursday October 24th.  A prospective Distinctive customer from NJ has already scheduled an appointment for Saturday morning! 

Sunday October 20th, we will be hosting a Lunch n Learn, with lunch starting at 12:00 noon, followed by a not to be missed presentation by Katy Garrett “How to Think Like a Million Dollar Designer”. read about it here….  If you care to join, an RSVP would be appreciated, but is not required.

And there’s more!

This being the 20th time  my company Antiques by Zaar has participated as an exhibitor at the High Point Furniture Market, we are celebrating! Not only cake at lunch but the icing on the cake being  DEEP discounts offered on the wide array Chinese and English Furniture, other than Distinctive pieces, which are already discounted, in my showroom.

ZAAR Design Center is a 12,000 square foot showroom FULL to the brim of exciting….

 furniture. from “away”, away being England, China and Mexico, AND Made in America.

          

accessories. including lamps, pottery, prints, and faux decorative plants and flowers

art. in many forms, as well as photographic works of art.

 

….and more.  A true treasure trove, and, Distinctive Chesterfields, such a fitting addition to the plethora of product available.

IF you can’t make it next week, when the space will be manned daily, do know that we are good to take appointments throughout the year.  In the meanwhile I am going back to preparing for “Market” and continue to look forward to taking your queries, by phone at 866 868 9227 or 917 244 9663 or by email at ruth@zaardesigncenter.com.

Look forward to meeting you/hearing from you!

Ruth

P.S. If you haven’t seen these already, enjoy these 2 short, like 30 seconds each, video clips we’ve made to promote Distinctive Chesterfields @ ZAAR.

Distinctive Chesterfields: Available “across the pond”

Distinctive Chesterfields: What’s YOUR word?

The Spirit of Santa AND Santa call ZAAR Home!

Surrounding ourselves with unique and distinctive furnishings and accents is one of the things we try to do here at ZAARDesignCenter . That is exactly what Kimberly Stone, owner of Sans Souci Sisters, brings to ZAAR with her beautiful custom Santa’s.

Yes, Santas, and I couldn’t be more pleased to have this Santa Spirit with us year round.

When our kids were younger, we made a really big deal out of Santa… for too many years actually…husband dressing up as Santa and waking them up with bells well before sunrise on Christmas morn. When asked by them if I believed in Santa, I quipped I believed in the Spirit of Santa, and that they should too….even after they “knew”. So, on a personal level I couldn’t think of a more pleasing add on to our offerings at ZAARDesignCenter. 

Last April, after 3 years showing in the Suites at Market Square, Sans Souci Sisters debuted at ZAAR.   We were thrilled that  they were looking for a new place to call home, and even happier that the collaborative atmosphere that ZAAR Design Center provided was exactly the kind of venue they  they were looking for. And how great was it that her customers followed her here after their introduction at her Suites location…shown here with designer Linda Zoffer, who did just that last April.

Kimberly, along with her mother and sister, are, in essence, running  a true “Santa’s Workshop” designing and creating one of a kind Santa’s in nearby Winston Salem NC. Available in six sizes they have a Santa to fit every need you have, be it professional or personal,  for Holiday décor.

Their absolute specialty is taking family mementos  that you provide them with,  and weave these treasures into a thoughtful and meaningful Santa that can be displayed each Christmas as a tradition.

If wanting a Santa as a finishing touch to a beautifully staged room or for a breathtaking window display, they will work with you, the designer/shop owner, to create the Santa you want in your desired color pallet.

Or, you can simply buy off the floor. During October Market  they are selling their Santa’s that will be on display for the duration. And, as a show special they are displaying their “Fight the Good Fight” Breast Cancer Awareness Santa, which they are auctioning off as a fundraiser.  Bids will be taken on this Santa up until November 27^th at midnight with 20% of the proceeds going to the Meme Brown’s “Fight like a Girl” scholarship fund. Meme, the namesake for this fund, was a close friend of Kimberly’s niece, Victoria, and who lost her brave fight with ovarian cancer last October at the too soon age of 21.

Whichever route you go you can be rest assured that the creation you purchase is made with care to detail, precision, and tender loving care. The end result being a truly amazing and one of a kind work of art.

Yes, so many reasons to be thinking Christmas in October, as it really isn’t that far away!,  and ZAAR is your one stop shop for your personal Christmas Santa. You can buy off the floor and you can bid on the Breast Awareness Cancer Santa and/or you can meet with Kim and get the wheels rolling on having your very own personalized Santa. Order deadline for Christmas 2013 is already past but good to get on something like this sooner than later for the upcoming Holiday Season.

To make an appointment with Kim you can reach her at sanssoucisisters@yahoo.com .

Or if you’d like for her to share with you, and a group of your friends/colleagues, the intricacies that go into making these Santas, she is available for presentations. Last December we were thrilled to have her present at ZAAR’s first Christmas Bazaar, to fellow WITHIT members. Highly recommended!

Check out their website, or follow Kim’s heartwarming blog to get to know the gal behind each Santa. You’ll quickly see the depth of the speciality of each of her creations.

Ruth

How to Think Like a Million Dollar Designer-Lunch n Learn

…with Katy Garrett, founder and  CEO of Connexionsoft, Design Tech Summit Executive Producer, and Design Camp Counselor.

Not that she isn’t busy enough already with the Summit, see more info/links below, she has agreed to swing on over to ZAAR Design Center and give one of her signature presentations on “How to Think Like a Million Dollar Designer”.

So, come and learn how thinking like a million dollar designer is the first step in becoming one!   Katy believes that  “the way you get things done in your design business becomes more important as you become busier and more competitive. That’s when your time becomes valuable both to you and to your design clients. Top competitors know that every hour counts which is why it’s imperative to understand how to think smart and to use your time wisely in an age where technology savvy designers win.”

Katy devotes her time and energy to the professional development of interior designers nationwide. Helping designers become high dollar design professionals using proven strategies  and technologies to streamline their  business processes is Katy’s passion, which is obvious by what she has orchestrated with regards to this inaugural Design Tech Summit, hosted by the Antique and Design Center and sponsored by Customized Walls, and The Kaleidoscope Partnership.

Yes, we are beyond excited to have her  join us at ZAAR Design Center and share how a changed mind set truly can change the course of your business.  So please do plan on joining us for lunch, followed a presentation you don’t want to miss…

Sunday October 20th. Lunch will start at 12:00 and 12:30 we will give Katy the floor.

ZAAR Design Center: 741 West Ward Ave. Go Anywhere Bus will happily transport you.

RSVP appreciated but not required.  ruth@zaardesigncenter.com  866 868 9227.

AND, be sure to attend any/all of the 3 tracks that are organized for the Summit. You won’t be disappointed.

 

Click here for more information on the Design Summit.

Click here to go the Design Summit facebook page.

Click here to view an interview with Katy by Laurie Laizure for the Google Plus Interior Design Community.

Ruth
P.S. As a side note, the connection made between Katy and I happened at the most recent WITHIT Conference, where we both participated in the round table led by Lisa Ferguson of Decor Mentor….who ALSO will be presenting at High Point Market…see schedule here.  She mentioned her Design Summit. A conversation ensued. I asked, and she said yes. Further to my blog on Asking 🙂

ZAAR Welcomes Legacy Fine Casual (Outdoor) Furniture

In true ZAAR fashion, we have once again come across something we didn’t know we were lacking until it came our way. Isn’t that always the way?

In a time where designing a home no longer stops at the back door, we are so pleased to introduce a line that addresses just this, Legacy Fine Casual Furniture.  Each piece made in the Mexico based factory is hand crafted with metal frames, designed to enhance any living space, outdoors or in. 

You can see the quality created by true artisans as they define the very best of Legacy Fine Casual Furniture with the wide array of intricate decorative finishes over weather resistant metal frames. Beautiful seating is offered in solution dyed fabrics by several industry suppliers and is designed to meet your everyday lifestyle.

Jeanne Glenn, Legacy’s North Carolina representative, will be taking appointments and working with us at ZAAR to give you all the information you need about this exciting and beautiful line of outdoor/indoor furniture. And as a long time friend of ZAARDesignCenter and we are pleased to have this opportunity to work with her through Legacy.

With market right around the corner, we hope that you will make it a point to stop by ZAARDESIGNCENTER and look at the Legacy line as well as the many other unique and desirable things we offer in our 12,000 square foot showroom.

Open 9:00-5:00 during Market (October 19th through the 24^th) and the 2nd Wednesday of every month, and otherwise by appointment.

Ruth

866 86 ZAAR/9227

ruth@zaardesigncenter.com

Doors Open to The Joys of Selling Online…

…OR, just DO IT!

Can you believe it?  I have been selling Chinese antiques online for 13 years!  Antiques by Zaar broke in as the first online only seller of Chinese Antiques back in 2000, and is still here, going strong.  YES!!!

Should you have suggested this to me just 2 years prior to the onset of this business I most certainly would’ve scoffed. Yes, we had lived in Asia , Thailand and Taiwan, for nearly a decade. Yes, we liked Chinese food and culture. And yes, we  liked the Chinese antique furniture. But, sell it online, from our new farmhouse in Maine? Maybe home accent pieces, but furniture???? Well, that would become a yes before I knew what was happening to me. And guess what?  After all is said and done, selling Chinese antiques online and Ruth Olbrych fit like a glove!

From the onset, Antiques by Zaar has been a very personal venture. The family is represented in the name (ZAAR, for my kids,  Z achary, A rianna, and A very, with R uth anchoring the lot.) and the logo, if you could read Chinese,  you would know  it to be my name. And if you want the whole personal skinny on how this all came about, you can read the extended version here at Our Story on the website.

And from a sales perspective the personal aspect continued, which not only made sense due to the nature of what I was selling, but also suited me as my ability to draw things out of people, in addition to what particular need I was able to meet for them….putting who they were, as the buyer, in context, came quite naturally to me.   Such would be reciprocated in my online newsletters, which couched the facts of a new buy, or an event, with personal anecdotes that were readily available with 3 adolescents in the house, raising golden retrievers on a farm in Maine…and, as appropriate, drawing on past experiences living overseas, can add Haiti to the list as well. Canada, as my home country, where we lived for 4 years prior to the Asia stint,  doesn’t count as an overseas experience :) , and having one’s own business….this was my 2nd. First one was selling Haitian handicrafts, which I had to pass on when we moved to Asia.

So, no, I didn’t dream about having a business selling Chinese antiques online, and frankly should we have done any amount of  market research to determine whether this was viable or not, we probably would’ve been discouraged against trying. But we didn’t. Instead we forged on with confidence that we had a winning formula and that it would work. No, failure was not an option.

So, I, of course, was happy to discover that I was pretty good at this online selling of  antiques and thus contribute to the financial well being of my family, and still be very present with my brood. And, the fact that I was providing a goods and service that people were well pleased with, well, just made my day and continues to do so. Yes, happy customers do make my world go round!

Fast forward more than a few  years and yet another such door would open to me through my recently established ZAAR Design Center in High Point NC.

The premise for ZAAR was simple. to give opportunity for affordable showroom space to other companies,  and thus provide a bigger draw to a single location for the design community that uses High Point as  resource for their projects. That in and of itself was what I wanted to provide.

So, no, I did not anticipate becoming the US based sales rep for the 3 UK companies are showcasing product with me at my ZAAR Design Center, but that is the door that opened when asked last October if I cared to serve as sales rep for Distinctive Chesterfields, after we had met/per introduction by Touchwood, and they had positioned their product in my showroom, and I said, “sure, why not?”

And so it is that I  now am wearing a new hat….answering the phone for both, Antiques by Zaar and Distinctive Chesterfields. Another good fit for me. A very personal purchase as each item is handcrafted for each particular customer, and customizations are definitely available. With the UK office supporting me/teaching me the ins and outs of their product, I confidently  present myself as the company’s sole US based sales associate. And with me in place,  now sending leather swatches and catalogues, the entire process of responding to our customer’s queries has accelerated greatly. Check out what pieces are currently at ZAAR, on Pinterest, which, yes, includes the blue sofa I’m sitting on here.

With the success of adding this line to my sales repertoire I am excitedly working on adding product from ALL, that would be more than a dozen companies, that have product at ZAAR Design Center, online at Pinterest and Houzz, will keep you posted,  as we work to develop a more sophisticated website to serve as a central location to view all.

So, I am here to say….

Doors do open. You don’t know what may come of it when walking through, but going through is probably a good idea. Welcome the surprises at the other side of it.

Selling product online is a great gig. Not tied, financially or physically, to a geographic location not only broadens your sales audience, but also keeps overhead low, a savings you can pass onto your customer as you price your product. AND it is the way of the world now.

Nuts and bolts I am a “people person” and doing what I do has and continues to open my world to people that I would not have otherwise met and now are part of my world.  Not only my customers, many who have grown to be good friends as well, but also other people in the industry….through High Point Market, High Point Design Center and WITHIT and more….

I am extremely grateful for this opportunity to share and likewise for those of you that read to the end of what has ended up being a rather lengthy posting.🙂

If you have an example of unanticipated doors opening that you walked through, please share….or if you have an online based business that you’d like to promote, please share that as well.
Ruth

Drexel Heritage Furniture Factory Re Purposed to High Point Showroom?

Yes!!!!

My commitment to High Point and High Point Market is as strong now as it was in Spring 2004 when I  contracted my first High Point showroom, in the Historic Market Square, for my online business, Antiques by Zaar….however this commitment has manifested in ways I couldn’t quite anticipate 9 years ago.

2008 I further entrenched myself  when I moved my entire warehouse of Chinese Antiques from Lewiston Maine to High Point North Carolina.

And, due to the economic down turn my warehouse defaulted to become my showroom Fall of 2009, and has been since. 4 years, and 3 warehouse moves later,  I FINALLY have found my HOME for not only Antiques by Zaar, but also for ZAAR Design Center, an entity I had brewing in my brain since I transplanted my inventory base from Maine to NC.

The Drexel Heritage Factory, a 300,000 square foot structure, located at 741 West Ward, on the corner of Ward and Green, quite literally a straight mile down Green from the heart of High Point Market Center….and yes, the Go Anywhere Shuttle does come to us! would be purchased in 2011 by Metropolitan Warehouse and Delivery  re purposing the bulk of this  furniture manufacturing facility into a furniture shipping facility. And I, a customer of said company, would be invited in to have 12,000 square feet allocated for my showroom/warehouse.  No, I didn’t want to move again, but it seemed the right move to make should I be serious about making it as easy as possible for people to find me, not only during the High Point Furniture Market, but also between Markets, as we are indeed open year round….the 2nd Wednesday of each month, as a member of the High Point Design Center, and otherwise by appointment.

So ZAAR Design Center, anchored by Antiques by Zaar, is here for YOU, and I invite you to come and discover the many treasures we at ZAAR have to offer.

the single largest inventory of Chinese Antiques in High Point. Antiques by Zaar

Traditional Leather Chesterfields, from the UK. Distinctive Chesterfields

Large collection of reproduction English Antiques and sculptures.  Lorna Dewey

Fine craftsmanship from NC artists. Sans Souci Sisters, Wood n Clay Studios, Art by    Katy and The Oriole Mill.

Furniture specifically made to lift/hide flat screen TV’s. Bellascenda

Professional Photography by Bruce Barrone and Sylvia Walks.

and product to buy, off the floor, from the following companies which have Showrooms during Market:

Flambeau Lighting:  200 N Hamilton, N CT Suite 201

Touchwood UK: SAMS G-2043

New Growth Designs: 200 N Hamilton, N CT Suite 337

Elizabeth Lucas Company: IHFC Interhall IH503

Cabeen Originals: SAMS G-6048

Fortunata: SAMS M-7034

I invite you to come and shop the 3 rooms, totaling over 12,000 square feet, of showroom space…either during Market,the 2nd Wednesday of the month, or by appointment.

Also, would like to further extend an invitation for you to join us Sunday, April 21st, at 12:00 for a Lunch n Learn. Yours truly will be speaking on Building Relationships Online, drawing  from 13 years of doing such for my online business, Antiques by Zaar. Read this recent blog posting giving backdrop to this presentation.

RSVP appreciated, not required.

ruth@antiquesbyzaar.com/ 1 866 868 9227

Look forward to meeting and greeting you next week in High Point, THE Furniture Capital of the World!

Ruth

New Website for ZAAR Design Center

ZAAR Design Center is what I affectionately call my “evolving entity”….as it has been in my head for what seems like forever, well ok since 2009…a year after I had finished the move of my warehouse from Lewiston Maine to High Point NC, and also the year that I started to exclusively use my warehouse as my High Point Market Showroom for the High Point Furniture Markets, in which I, with my business Antiques by Zaar, had been exhibiting at since 2004.

Bellascenda would soon come on board to sublet space and would also come on board and join as a member of the High Point Design Center, where we would both be open for “Designer Wednesdays”, as well as, of course, during Markets….or by appointment for anyone that couldn’t hit those dates.

Fast track to 2011. Two more warehouse moves later, yes, am on 4th, and if I can help it, final,  I feel I have landed in a location that I can promote with confidence….ie, one that is as close as I can get to the center of High Point without being in the center of High Point…a mere mile down Green Drive, in what was the former Drexel Heritage Factory.

Here I’ve leased 12,000 square feet from Metropolitan Warehouse and Delivery who took ownership of the building in 2011, and with whom I do the bulk of my blanket wrap shipping. About 9,000 square feet is used to show/sell my inventory of Chinese Antiques, and the rest is dedicated to, you got it, ZAAR Design Center, which has blossomed to include, in addition to Antiques by Zaar, no less than 15 companies that have product to show/sell at this venue.

Some companies have showrooms in the main buildings during Market but maintain a presence with us for in between Market business. Some are folks  like me, and are solely exhibiting at ZAAR. Some are from the UK (3 actually) and the rest of us are from various states, from New England down to NC.   ALL of us are creators and believers. Similarly ALL of us are the heart and soul of our respective businesses. ALL of us have a passion for our product and respective businesses, and ALL of us believe in the value of being available in High Point for our To The Trade Businesses.

I am honored and delighted to have so many people come together to create what is, if I say so myself, a most pleasing venue with a wide variety of product, beautifully displayed, thank you Sherry Mitchell, there for your shopping pleasure. Yes, you can buy off the floor anything that is there. But even more so we want to ensure you are aware of these companies and their product lines for your future design projects.

And today I am pleased to share with you that I finally have a website for ZAAR Design Center, where you can get a sense of what we have to offer at ZAAR, with links to respective websites, and also find a list of resources that it pleases me to promote. Also, there  you have opportunity to sign up for our online newsletters and link to our social media portals.

Yes, ZAAR Design Center has it’s own blog, your’re reading it here,  and face book page, please feel free to go and show some love over there🙂. Note that I am on twitter as @antiquesbyzaar but tweet there for both entities, and similarly on LinkedIn, I have a group for antiques by zaar where I also post ZAAR Design Center material. Pinterest and Houzz are also used for both entities but are under my name Ruth Olbrych/Antiques by Zaar. Yes, ZAAR Design Center is piggy backing on the long standing reputation of my 12 year old business Antiques by Zaar, but with this website is showing some autonomy🙂.

I hope you enjoy visiting us at the new website, which although brings us to the next stage of development, is itself a toddler. Look forward to having it serve as a venue for you to familiarize yourself with what we have to offer and further to having you come and visit us in High Point NC, THE Home Furnishings Capital of the World.

Ruth

1 866 868 ZAAR/9227

ruth@zaardesigncenter.com

Great Deals to be had in Lexington NC @ Carolina’s Warehouse

One of my great pleasures is sharing resources that may not quite be on your radar but are certainly worthy to explore. One such resource is the Carolina Warehouse in Lexington NC. Jim Green and his team have created a wonderful shopping experience for anyone that is looking for top quality product at exceptional ,read below wholesale, prices…in home furnishings and accessories.

I had a designer call me for something that I knew I didn’t have and I suggested she visit  the Carolina Warehouse, which she did, and which I heard was a great experience for all involved! She found what she was looking for and more.

You might want to check them out. OPEN 1st weekend of every month, or by appointment. See below.

Ruth

Carolina Warehouse Enterprises, LLC

Furniture Market Showroom Sample Sale

Accessories & Furniture

Sale is February 7^th, 8^th, and 9^th 

8 am – 6 pm Thursday & Friday 8 am – 4 pm Saturday

Can’t make the sale – Call  for appointment 336-237-1147 or 336-862-3375

802 West Center Street, Lexington NC 27292

(Old Stanley Furniture Building, entrance off West Center St Ext – back of building, look for signs)     Samples from over 40 showrooms

Hand Crafted Leather Sofas from the UK

I was very excited when Steve Hickman, of Touchwood-UK, a ZAAR Design Center member since 2010, suggested to his friend, fellow Brit and owner of Distinctive Chesterfields, that should he want to grow his US presence of his 10 year old UK based biz, that, in addition to showing in High Point, he should consider aligning with me/ZAAR Design Center.

Steve Laidlaw, the heart and soul behind Distinctive Chesterfields, took his friends advise to heart and last spring, after his debut Market, showing in the Salon at Suites at Market Square, moved over the remaining showroom samples to ZAAR Design Center. What a lovely addition to our growing collection….and that was the beginning.

Doesn’t the Holyrood 2 seater, in antique red leather look great with this chest from Antiques by Zaar, floral accent from New Growth Designs?

In addition to having some floor samples for people to “test sit” and sell at ZAAR Design Center, I have happily accepted  the job of being the companies US based sales representative. Why not eh?

In the last 3 months I have enjoyed learning all about what makes Distinctive Chesterfields a brand worth representing….hint, it’s all about quality, not only of the product, but also the people behind the product, and being the voice for Distinctive Chesterfields in the US. I have sold floor samples from the showroom and also helped customers with their custom orders.

So, should you have any interest in learning more about the fabulous line of traditional tufted sofas, as produced by Distinctive Chesterfields and represented by yours truly and ZAAR Design Center.

Ruth

High Point NC: Promoting the Home Furnishings Capital of the World….

…..through the High Point Convention and Visitors Bureau, AND with the help of more than a handful of High Point based furniture companies to support this, namely….

E.J.Victor

Fabric Forum

Huffman Paint & Wallcoverings

Theodore Alexander Outlet

Tomlinson/Erwin-Lambeth

William Thorpe/Giltwood

Zaki Oriental Rugs

Antiques by Zaar

Yes, Antiques by Zaar is thrilled to be in the fine company  of those listed above, to deck out the reception area of the Convention and Visitors Bureau, which is conveniently located at 300 South Main, or more specifically on the corner of Green and Main St.

Although all these companies cater To The Trade, they/we have all bought into the value in  keeping the fire alive for High Point to maintain its status as “Home Furnishings Capital of the World” to the non trade visitor to High Point as well.

Can you believe that “this” was all started way back in 1889 when the first furniture factories opened in High Point, and then in 1909,  High Point hosted the first Furniture Market…..a trade show that over the years has grown to be the largest trade show in the world, spreading over 10 million square feet of showroom space in 180 buildings, attracting 100,000 vendors/buyers twice a year, from over 100 countries….

….all of this has merited the small city of High Point (population just over 100,000) two titles…one as “North Carolina’s International City “AND also as the” Home Furnishings Capital of the World”, as mentioned above. That’s quite a load for this unassuming city….that literally comes alive twice a year, like you’ve never seen before.

Yes, High Point is a MUST VISIT to shop owners and designers alike,  but note that although Market is when all are revved up for the masses, that MANY showrooms are open year round, including Antiques by Zaar/ZAAR Design Center,  and have joined forces as members of the High Point Design Center to promote such…….BUT there as just as many non trade folks out there that wend their way to High Point to shop the finds they expect to land on in this furniture mecca….

So, thank YOU, Joyce Allen-Crawford, for giving all of us the opportunity to contribute to promoting High Point….ALL in the interest of maintaining High Point’s status as THE Furniture Capital of the World.

Ruth

 

Making Days Count in Goa India

Has not been my inclination to write posts on this blog which are more personal in nature, but I’ve let the noise around me (and in my head) be quieted enough to sit back and ponder this Gift of Life we have been Given and how we choose to Live it and the desire to introduce you to Scott Morgan and Katy Allgeyer (ZAAR Design Center member) trumps all inhibitions to put this out there…as they are Living very Intentionally, in Goa India.

Katy Allgeyer,  is on what she, and her boyfriend Scott Morgan,  have called a “trip of a lifetime”….a trip that was planned after Scott was diagnosed with in operable cancer this past October.

I simply want to encourage you to follow them via Katy’s blog (where Scott also contributes) Going to Goa, as it is so very heartwarming and real…yes, real is what it is most.

I personally spend alot of time feeling I don’t make each day count enough/ letting myself get in the way of truly Living Fully/Giving Fully….and then I think about Scott and Katy, how they are making each of their numbered days count in Goa India.

I am touched by the courage that it must’ve taken (maybe not/maybe Going to Goa was really the easy decision to make?! After reading this, I would say yes to that.) to embark on this journey which has as at the core of its mission one of LIVING exactly HOW and WHERE, and with WHOM you CHOOSE to. So many decisions are taken away from you when diagnosed with a life threatening disease, but Scott, you took the bull by the horns and ran with it, and Katy, ever by your side.

Scott and Katy. You know you have friends and family the world around. You personify the adage that a stranger is just a friend you have yet to meet…especially you Scott….coming from a gal that crashed one of your parties, as led to by your friend Charles Simmons, and is now in that friend category.🙂 You have, and continue to touch the lives of so many. I just want to thank you for being so kind to share your days, your travels, your thoughts/feelings with us as you so openly…sometimes soberly, sometimes with humor, peppered with photos and artwork, but always with candor and always with heart, via your blog. I do feel like I am there with you. Hope you can feel that the 1,200 plus people that read your blog are indeed there with you as well, with mere miles separating us…

Yes, this is THE trip of YOUR, both of yours, Lifetime, and you continue to touch OUR LIVES by sharing how you are Living Intentionally. Thank you again.

With great affection and in the Spirit of Friendship,

Ruth

P.S. And, if you feel that you want to “do” something in response, then I encourage you to contribute to the Scott Morgan Education Fund, which has been set up in his honor.

ZAAR Design Center Warmly Welcomes WITHIT with Christmas Spirit…

We Welcome You!

….and  an opportunity to contribute to the Traub Memorial Scholarship Fund, as 10% of every dollar spent at this by invitation Christmas Bazaar you are being apprised of here,  is going to said fund…which, by the way, will be matched 2-1… a generous gift by Peggy Traub, WITHIT co founder and founder of this Fund! read more about this fund here....

Yes, it will be a shopping extravaganza and more!

Where: ZAAR Design Center. 741 West Ward Ave. We’re in the former Drexel Heritage Factory on the corner of Ward and Green. Entrance is on Green.

When:  Wednesday November 14th, starting at 5:00 pm. ..yes, that is next Wednesday!

 What to Bring: Pot luck, so bring your own party snack...we’ll provide beverages…and bring a prospective WITHIT member…and oh yes, don’t forget your checkbook and/or credit cards, as you will want to shop!

Special Speaker: Did you know that Santa had a workshop in Winston Salem? Yes, Kimberly Stone (withit AND new zaar design center member) is the Heart and Soul  behind a very special workshop, the Sans Souci Sisters,  that hand makes heirloom Santa Claus’s and Holiday Decor right in NC! And yes, she will have Santas and decor for sale!

Other WITHIT members that are part of ZAAR Design Center, that will be showcasing/selling their product are Cabeen Originals, Kathleen Holterman and Company, and the anchor of ZAAR, Antiques by Zaar.

….and for all of you that have drooled over my “girl power” ring, ARIA, will have product, including this ring, you all know you want one, at the Bazaar.

They say a picture is worth a thousand words, so no more chatter…but rather some eye candy to entice you to come and find some treasures you won’t find elsewhere in this 12,000 square foot showroom, of Furniture AND Accessories, all at Trade Pricing, open exclusively to WITHIT members and friends … even more pix here.

    

 

Not to mention it is going to be a GREAT time…I for one, as a WITHIT member for past 4 years, have yet to attend a WITHIT sponsored event, whether in NYC or NC, that I have not thoroughly enjoyed. So, come and join in on the fun, be part of the buzz and welcome the Christmas Spirit with your WITHIT friends. So very much look forward to welcoming YOU next Wednesday.

Ruth

RSVP Appreciated/Not Required.  ruth@antiquesbyzaar.com  207 838 2675.

High Point Market and NOW What’s Up Between Markets….

High Point Market has come and gone and it was a Great time to celebrate with ALL that were there… ALL of us, in the midst of what continues to be challenging economic times, as exhibitors or as buyers…BUT we were all indeed there because we are still ALL in business. Accolades to us!

At ZAAR Design Center, the 15 companies with product showing there, enjoyed a steady stream of customers visiting our 12,000 square foot showroom, located in what was the former Drexel Heritage Factory….with an influx of 35 attending our Lunch n Learn on Sunday, with Designer Traci Zeller. See pix here…Traci offered such great tips on how

Thank YOU Traci!!!!!

Designers can become relevant with an active online presence, offering the advice that in order to be effective it matters greatly that you define your niche/your unique mark, as it is that which will define you/attract the kind of clients that work for you. And she similarly noted that it was something that had to be nurtured and fostered/not something that would happen overnight.

It appears to me that the world has become upside down if you will, in that, in the past you needed a brick and mortar to validate your business. Now it is your online presence within the realm of social media and directing all to your website that validates your business. Nuts and bolts, the fostering of your online image is not something to be ignored, or scared of, but rather embraced as an opportunity to broaden your business exposure in a way that not so long ago didn’t even exist.

So after 2 weeks of all the hoopla that goes with Market time, High Point has once again settled into what appears to be more of a sleepy mode. But Don’t let that outside appearance fool you, as there are more than 50 companies  with doors open for business year round. Yes, we are members of the High Point Design Center, the City of Showrooms…encouraging Designers to shop our showrooms year round. Some of us are staffed daily but many of us are by appointment. BUT, the 2nd Wednesday of every month, there is a good lot of us OPEN throughout the day, which, if you sign up (free/here)  for the newsletter, you will get listing of who is open/what specials are to be had, prior to each event,  for what we call Designer Wednesdays.

ZAAR Design Center is revving up for this first Designer Wednesday post Market with a Christmas Bazaar, featuring one of our new additions to the year round offerings, by the talented team at Sans Souci Sisters, who are the ultimate Santa’s workshop, hand stitching heritage Santa Clauses. Kimberley Stone will be there to share about how you can custom order personalized keepsake Santa’s and, of course a selection of Santas will be available for purchase…..that and SO MUCH MORE.

If hand made jewelry is on your Christmas list, for any someone/including YOU, then we will have several options for you to consider. Hand made thrown pottery  and wood turned bowls will be available, as well as the creators of these crafts, to share with you the story behind their work.

Artwork by 2 local artists, Katy Allgeyer, and Kathleen Holterman, and a lovely array of artificial plants and trees by New Growth. Professional photographers Bruce Barone and Sylvia Muller have framed works of art presented and Elizabeth Lucas Company and Flambeau lighting round out the accessory offerings  with more artwork and a line of specialty lighting….and that is just touching on the accessory side of things.

We have furniture too! Chinese and English antiques as well as reproduction furniture from both countries, from Antiques by Zaar, Lorna Dewey Company , Touchwood UK AND  a fine line of leather upholstery by Distinctive Chesterfields…also of the UK.

Not done yet. We have US made furniture too. Made in Chatanooga TN by Cabeen Originals and NC by Total Design Source….a fine line of handcrafted wood furniture and upholstered chairs.

Are you getting the gist?  We are all ramped up to share with you the festive Christmas Spirit BEFORE you get swamped by all that gets in the way of us enjoying this special time of year….and if you want to see yet more photos, feel free to click here.

So, yes, Market has come and gone, but ZAAR Design Center is warming up to what will be one Great in between Market Season and we’re kick starting it with a Christmas Bazaar! Hope I’ve enticed you to join us!

RSVP appreciated/not required.

Ruth

ruth@antiquesbyzaar.com/ 207 838 2675/ 866 868 9227

Kat Burki Floor Samples GREATLY REDUCED!

…not going to want to miss the great deal going on @ ZAAR Design Center, 741 West Ward Ave (corner of Green and Ward) with the Kat Burki’s (made in America) Collection.

OPEN ALL DAY Wednesday 9/12/12.

                       ALL of below upholstered items will be sold with an ADDITIONAL

                                                            50% off of trade price!

….and a wide array of sculptures too

…from the Lorna Dewey Collection.

Look forward to seeing you on Designer Wednesdays…the 2nd Wed of each month @ ZAAR Design Center, 741 West Ward.

Ruth

Lorna Dewey adds European Antiques to mix @ ZAAR

A picture is worth a thousand words. So, let the pictures here speak for themselves/sharing with you some of the fine pieces now available for purchase @ ZAAR.

This is just a teaser….to fully appreciate and if in the vicinity of High Point, be sure to come and see for yourself @ the ZAAR Design Center @ 741 West Ward…open the 2nd Wednesday of every month, during High Point Furniture Market or by appointment year round.

Ruth

207 838 2675/ruth@antiquesbyzaar.com

HPDC Designer Appreciation Day/Dessert @ ZAAR 9/12/12

….and, of course, plenty to shop.

Look forward to meeting and greeting, and saying THANK YOU, to the Designers that continue to bring business our way…. as a member of the High Point Design Center, and specifically, as owner of Antiques by Zaar and representative of all those showcasing product at ZAAR Design Center.

We’re serving dessert in our freshly reworked showroom, debuting at this event. Sneak peak here of some of what we have to offer.

Come on by! 741 West Ward Ave, just a mile down Green, @ the corner of Green and Ward.

New Growth Designs & Bruce Barone Photography add to the Home Accent mix @ ZAAR

High Point Market has come and gone, but for some of us, ie, members of the High Point Design Center in particular,  business in High Point hums along throughout the year as we make ourselves available to our Trade customers.

So, if you didn’t get by to see us during Market, you just might want to come by and see us at a time that works for you….  KNOW that we are open the 2nd Wednesday of every month, next one being this Wed May 9th,  9:00-5:00 and otherwise by appointment.

Thrilled to share that not only do we have the Photos, Paintings, Pottery, Throws and Wood Turned Bowls, as announced prior to Market, in this blog, but can also add to this a colorful selection of artificial flowers and plants by New Growth Designs, and as well as a Soulful selection of photographs by Bruce Barone, both who exhibited @ Market and now have in between Market presence @ ZAAR.

….a few photos of home accent product available for cash and carry, just to entice you in for a visit.

….this gorgeous photo by Bruce Barone was also Style Spotted by Traci Zeller. It is an eye catcher!  His collection of 20 includes a mix of black & white and color photographs.

…just one of the many gorgeous real like floral arrangements, by New Growth Designs, available for cash and carry @ ZAAR. Also have trees and ferns!

Exclusively available at ZAAR, a line of Asian inspired pillows and throws by the Oriole Mill.

The Fortunate Flower Series, by local artist Katy Allgery, debuted @ Market and has pieces still available to purchase, or you can talk to her about commissioned pieces.

NOTE: Katy will be available to talk about her artistic skills, as a mixed media artist and as Feng Shui expert, at our May Designer Wed. Come for a casual conversation. You will be impressed!

The poster says it all, succinctly and visually. Beautiful pieces available to purchase from these local artists, who happen to be husband and wife. Guess which does the pottery and which the wood turned bowls?

….scenes from walking the walk in Long Island, through the eyes of Sylvia Muller. Selection of black and white and color photos available for purchase, with or without frames.

….works of mixed media art from the Elizabeth Lucas Company. You might’ve seen them in their IHFC showroom?

….and fun light fixtures from Flambeau Lighting, who you might’ve seen in Suites at Market Square.

Photos, Paintings, Pottery, Pillows, Throws and Wood Turned Bowls…

…. ALL of that which will be added to the line of what is already available at ZAAR Design Center, ALL debuting for the Spring 2012 Market. They say a picture is worth a 1,000 words, so let me pictorially offer a sneak peak of a smattering of what is new @ ZAAR this Spring.

Photos by “Sylvia Walks”  bring the colors, scents and scenery of Long Island into your home by way of  Sylvia Muller, who truly walks and shoots her way though East Hampton, where she and her husband Gary run a fabulous retreat, known as the Mill House Inn.

Showcasing 12 photos each, a black and white scenic  folio, and “fruit and veggie” folio….available framed or unframed. You’ll have to agree she certainly has a way of capturing the essence through the lens of her camera.

Debuting the “Fortunate Flowers” series, Katy Allgeyer is a mixed media artist,based out of High Point, that has a heavy fashion and textile background, and also does more than dabble in Feng Shui, and enjoys writing a blog, called Feng Shui By Fish Girl…has a nice ring to it doesn’t it?

Her colorful series is created using all manner of specific Chinese themed images that she has found from all manner of sources, and so beautifully pulls together to create this unique grouping of original paintings...just a couple of which I’m sharing here.

The Oriole Mill, based out of Hendersonville NC, is an entity unto it’s own, and is so well portrayed by the Vintage Traveller , who visited recently and efused about all she experienced, I’m linking here to her blog. Yes, they are bringing yet more color to ZAAR with their 100% cotton throws and pillows…the vibrancy of the fabric you can feel in these photos taken, showing the fabric not yet off of the loom.

and finally….Wood n Clay Studios, a labor of love by husband and wife team Dave and Barbara MacInnes….she hand builds pottery and he turns wood.

Although they have been showing and selling their wares at various retail venues throughout NC, this is their debut into “Market”, and we welcome them, and their lovely hand crafted treasures.

Am so excited to have these fine people and their fine fine product, all making their debut this Market. Be sure to stop by and take a look at all in person….and don’t forget, we’re hosting a “lunch and learn” on Sunday, with Designer, Blogger, Market “Style Spotter” Traci Zeller…it’s gonna be great too!

And to Market we go!

Ruth

High Point Market: Oh, the People I’ll see…

Oh my, where does one start at the people one sees/expects to see,  at Market? I know I am not alone by going from the extreme of  sitting on my computer/phone, working alone in a home office, to not shutting up or sitting down during the “next 6 days that matter“….and I LOVE it! Yes, the High Point Furniture Market is where it’s at to promote and grow your business, and I’m excited for what will be my 17th Market.

With my key roles, in both businesses, Antiques by Zaar and ZAAR Design Center, there is no shortage of people to see/connect with. The obvious being the customers that come specifically to purchase my Chinese Antiques.

Recall in early days, back when I only had a representation of my line available to view first hand, how I would excitedly share how I had a website where they could see ALL of my product, and I would hear “oh, that’s nice”…and now, when I offer the same info I get “that’s great!”….my, how times have changed! And NOW they have both. ALL of my merchandise to see, first hand AND on line!

The need to be “present” as representative of ZAAR Design Center ensures that I am “out and about” as much as I can be in between appointments, and with my showroom manned by a strong team, led by Jeff Moore, who has been working with me for the past 5 years, I am able to do this ….scouting out new prospective trade partners, connecting with current ones that are manning their Market spaces,  fostering relationships with other businesses that support the collaborative Spirit we need to keep the fires burning in High Point, and simply letting people know who we are and what we’re doing….a job that goes on well into each evening.

Yes, the “next 6 days that matter” are like 6 never ending days FILLED to the brim with reconnecting with people, so many that have become good friends over the years, and making new connections. Truly, one of the great great things about my business is the wonderful people that come into my world by way of it!

And so, here we are, on the cusp of the Spring 2012 Market, where it will once again all culminate,  as each of us brings something to the table to make this event what it is…not only buyers and sellers, but ALL the support people that tirelessly work to make Market happen….and a place to do good business.

If you should be heading to the High Point Market, and are reading this, know that I shall very much look forward to seeing you/meeting you, in what is but a week away!

Ruth

High Point Market: So much to do….

Attending the bi annual High Point Furniture Market, has been part of my schedule for the past 9 years now…hard to believe really.

In my early years at Market I worked solo and thus was pretty much glued to the confines of my showroom…never venturing far away.  But with consolidating my showroom and warehouse into one singular space, in 2008,  and with the manning of said space done by the competent and committed sales associate/ come warehouse manager, Jeff Moore, I have taken it upon myself to be the one “out and about” mingling with the masses/spreading the ZAAR word, secure in the knowledge that my showroom is well managed…and that I’m just a phone call/text away.

The events, educational and social, are numerous….something for everyone, at every time of the day…overwhelming really.  For a complete listing you should visit the event calender as published by the High Point Market Authority.

HERE, I am going to list out what I plan on attending this next Market. How did I hone in on these? Well, if WITHIT is sponsoring it, you’ll know that it is good, and thus why the preponderance of WITHIT events on my list….and some that I’ve noted, although aren’t WITHIT sponsored, the speakers are WITHIT members….Allison Paladino is a long term AbyZaar Customer…no brainer/gotta hear her. Dr. Nido is responsible for land breaking developments at the High Point University…you know he will have something interesting to say…even if it’s at 7:00 am!  And, of course, I look forward to welcoming folks @ the ZAAR Design Center’s first “Lunch and Learn” with Traci Zeller…

So,  here goes. Contact info noted beside each event, so should you be interested in attending info is readily available, but again, more details found at HPMA website.

Note this is only the “educational” events…and only through to Monday…yes, I do have other things on my plate as well during the “next 6 days that matter”….”social” events is a whole nother thing!

Furniture Fellowship Prayer Breakfast: Friday April 20th 7:00 am.

 Dr. Nido Qubein, President of High Point University. “From Success to Significance”

Can still make reservations, 25.00/ticket, up until April 16th. Click here to buy tickets online.

WITHIT: President’s Welcome Reception: Friday April 2oth 6:00 pm.

Seasonal Living Showroom, IHFC Interhall #306.  No charge, but rsvp required. Contact WITHIT.

Market Square Antique and Design Center: Saturday April 21st. 10:00- 11:00

Leslie Carouthers and Jennifer Mehditash: Pinterest and Olioboard. From Inspiration to Income.

WITHIT Educational Breakfast: Sunday April 22nd, 7:30-9:00 am

Lifestyle Trends: Kathy Wall, Jason Oliver Nixon , Krissa Rossbund, Elaine Markoutsas

No charge, but RSVP required. Contact Leigh Chastain:  lchastain@imcenters.com

ZAAR Design Center Lunch n Learn: Sunday April 22nd 12:00- 1:30 pm.

Traci Zeller/Traci Zeller Designs: Do I Blog, Tweet, Facebook or Pin? (And what happens if I do nothing?)

No charge. RSVP appreciated/not required. Contact yours truly: ruth@antiquesbyzaar.com

Monday April 23, 10:00- 11:30   220 East Commerce

Branded! Make a Name for Yourself and Increase Your Business: Tobi Fairley, Lisa Ferguson, Debbie Green

Sponsored by IHFC and IFDA:  Monday April 23, 12:00-1:00

Allison Paladino: Why the Bad Economy has been the Best thing for my Business.

20.00 fee to reserve seat/includes lunch. Contact Leigh Chastain. lchastain@imcenters.com

WITHIT: Competitive Intelligence/Trends Forecast:  Monday April 23, 6:30- 8:30pm

Crystalyn Stuart: Power of Pinterest.

No charge, but RSVP required. Contact Sarah Findle  sarahf@imre.com.

Catch a Deal In Lexington NC: Monthly Sale on NOW, or make an appt…

Carolina Warehouse Enterprises, LLC

Furniture Market Showroom Sample Sale

Accessories & Furniture

Sale is April 5^th, 6^th, and 7th

8 am – 6 pm Thursday & Friday 8 am – 4 pm Saturday

Can’t make the sale – Call us for appointment 336-237-1147

802 West Center Street, Lexington NC 27292

(Old Stanley Furniture Building, entrance off West Center St Ext – back of building, look for signs)

Samples from over 40 showrooms

Why base your Home Furnishings Business in High Point?

Answer:  Because  “it”, that being BUSINESS, is happening in High Point ALL YEAR LONG!

Yes, the High Point Furniture Market is THE event that the city of High Point ramps up for with excitement twice/year, and this is a wonderful thing to anticipate….and which is one month away…. and participate in, BUT….

….there is so much more to gain from having one’s business based in High Point…. and why I am so over the moon happy for having decided to move my warehouse, for my online based business, from Maine to High Point what is now 5 years ago…AND at same time join the High Point Design Center, which, at the core of its mission statement, is to service the Interior Design Community Year Round!

….so, BEFORE launching into all that which leads to “THE” Market, I am intent on sharing my delight for all that goes on BETWEEN Markets.

Specifically to the recently held UNITY in Design event, as sponsored by the HPDC….   well, I hardly  know where to start, as to the value I see this creating for designers  and design students alike…can you believe it we had close to 100 design students join us this year?, to those showrooms that were open for biz and those that made themselves available for assorted breakfasts, luncheons, presentations or cocktail parties, AND those vendors that chose to show their wares at the Trade Show, a feature which was added to the event 3 years ago.

Case in point…below, a  note I received from Bethanne of Oriole Mills, who had a booth at the trade show, and who I enjoyed dining with one evening, and who I KNOW made many inroads for her business, which, participation in this event, served as a spring board for her to grow her business from High Point…

“The conference was great and a wonderful surprise.  I had no expectations but even my highest expectations would have been exceeded.  We were welcomed by great women, established in the trade — what a fabulous gift.  It was a lovely chain of women linking us to others.  Wow.  What a rare and amazing phenomenon.  Thank you for being one of those to welcome us and to offer an opportunity.”

…and while on the topic of “women linking women”  I cannot fail to include the valuable work of WITHIT, which does that and more.

This valuable organization is all about, through an amazing network of professional women, ALL in the home furnishings industry, making business happen. And yes, the headquarters of this international organization are in High Point, appropriately so.

...with Karen of the Art & Antique Center

Aside from my obvious exuberance for the work of these 2 organizations, of which I am a proud member, and what they do to promote business in High Point, I am further delighted by the number of individuals that I continue to meet that understand what can be gained by working together in a Spirit of Collaboration. Each and every time I go to High Point I am introduced to yet another opportunity for collaboration. It is so gratifying to grow our presence, and yes our respective businesses, by reaching out for each other. It infuses me!

Yes, there are many of us that have chosen to base our home furnishing business from High Point….and I’m here to let you know, that, as much as we’d like to see you during Market, that if we don’t, do know that we are there for you all year long…ready to do business!

Ruth

Bienenstock Furniture Library $5.00 Book Sale is on NOW!

 …coinciding with the High Point Design Center 2nd Wednesday Event on 3/14…ie, bunches of showrooms open/including ZAAR Design Center…a Great opportunity to get some great deals on books…see details below.

$5.00 Book Sale

The Bernice Bienenstock Furniture Library

1009 North Main Street

High Point, NC  27262

March 12^th – 14^th, 2012

9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Hundreds of titles all on sale for $5.00 each!  Add to your office or home library, purchase books for your showrooms for the April 2012 Market, or shop for gifts for family and friends.  Interior Design, window treatment, color, and furniture books are available.

Visa, Mastercard, Discover, American Express, Checks and Cash accepted.

 

Don’t miss out on this great opportunity to stock up on furniture related titles for just $5.00 each.  If you have questions, call Karla Webb at 336.883-4011

Traci Zeller: Designer/Blogger/Speaker…and now Style Spotter!

….yes,  Traci Zeller, who will be speaking at the ZAAR Design Center  luncheon next week….yeah us!  has been selected as one of 8 Style Spotters for the Spring High Point Furniture Market. What GREAT news and just wanted to say congrat’s to Traci for being chosen to do this.

So excited….for next week’s event, AND for the acknowledgment Traci has been given by being selected to share what she thinks is HOT!

If you’d like to join us for lunch/presentation, please go to the High Point Design Center  to register, OR contact me….

ruth@antiquesbyzaar.com/ 207 838 2675

Look forward to welcoming you all in High  Point next week…and if you can’t make it, don’t worry, I’ll give you the benefit to enjoy virtually!

Ruth

P.S. You can get a taste for what Traci likes by following her on Pinterest, which is where she will be posting her High Point finds.

…and if you don’t already, do check out her popular blog!

Touchwood UK: Growing Their Year Round Presence in High Point…

….yes, yet another shipment is on it’s way from the UK to High Point NC, to provide even more of their fine product to those Designers that like to shop High Point between Markets.

All pieces shown below are either in High Point, or on their next container to High Point, leaving the end of Feb, AND, in addition to pieces below you can check out the pieces they already have available at ZAAR Design Center, which will be OPEN for the UNITY in Design Event…Feb 29-Mar 2.

  Each piece made available by Touchwood has been through a thorough restoration process within their own workshops wherein each piece has been repaired, restored and re-polished in a sympathetic way to retain their original beauty.    Prices in USD include shipping into High Point, NC.  Prices in GBP exclude delivery/shipping – please contact Steve @  touchwooduk@btinternet.com   for a delivery/shipping quotation, additional photos, or any further info.  Sold on a first-come, first-sold basis.

Extra Large Antique Four Door Cupboard

This truly is an amazing looking piece.  This item would grace any empty space with elegance and beauty.
Dimensions:
Length 130″ (2870mm)
Depth 15.5″ (395mm)
Height 55″ (1400mm)
Price: USD 2495  GBP 1350

Antique Pine Dresser and Rack

This item is of a great size, has a great colour and is overall, a great looking piece.
Dimensions:
Width 74″ (1880mm)
Depth 18.5″ (470mm)
Height 86.5″ (2200mm)
Price: USD 1780  GBP 920

Victorian Pine Shabby Chic Style Dresser Base

This item is ideal as a kitchen piece and has a wonderful looking old pine top and aged painted finish.
Dimensions:
Length 63″ (1600mm)
Depth 26″ (660mm)
Height 33.25″ (870mm)
Price: USD 1545  GBP 830

Old Pine Turned Leg One Drawer Farmhouse Table

This item has been made in their own workshops and is not an Antique.  This piece can be made to any size required with any finish.

Length 75″ (1905mm)Width 41.75″ (1060mm)

Height: 30″ (760mm)Inside Leg Measurement 51.75″ (1310mm)     Price: USD 905  GBP 480

Antique Oak 17th Century Coffer

Beautifully restored Oak Coffer with some wonderful character which only comes with age.
Dimensions:
Length 49″ (1245mm)
Depth 22.5″ (570mm)
Height 24″ (610mm)
Price: USD 1195  GBP 490

Antique Oak Writing Desk

A good solid writing desk with plenty of drawer space.
Dimensions:
Length 49″ (1250mm)
Depth 20″ (510mm)
Height 32″ (815mm)
Price: USD 995  GBP 460

Pair of Old Pine Wine Racks – can be sold individually

Made up within their own workshops out of old reclaimed pine.  The wine racks are old but not certain of the age, made from a combination of metal and wood.  These are truly beautiful looking pieces and each rack holds up to 70 bottles.
Dimensions of each:
Length 29″ (740mm)
Depth 13″ (330mm)
Height 46″ (1170mm)
Price (of each): USD 1350  GBP 595

Antique Solid Mahogany Drop Leaf Table

Beautifully restored solid mahogany drop leaf table with new brass castors.  Wonderful size, wonderful colour and wonderful finish.
Dimensions:
Length 54″ (1370mm)
Width 78″ (1980mm) (when open)
Height 29.75″ (755mm)
Each leaf is 24″ (610mm)
Price: USD 2590  GBP 1490

Antique Demi-Lune Card Table

Beautifully restored early 19th Century Demi-Lune with beautiful detailed in-lays and new baized playing surface.

Diameter 36″ (920mm) (when open)

Height 29.25″ (745mm)

Price: USD 1240  GBP 690

Antique Mahogany Two Over Three Inlayed Chest

Beautifully restored Mahogany Two Over Three Chest with wonderful inlays and overall a great sized chest.  All Oak Lined Drawers and back.
Dimensions:
Length 49″ (1250mm)
Depth: 19.25″ (490mm)
Height: 45.5″ (1155mm)
Price: USD 1695  GBP 995

Antique Early Victorian Mahogany Book Case

Truly a wonderful example of a book case of this era.  Beautifully restored with beautiful flamed mahogany effect and old rippled glass.
Dimensions:
Length 37.25″ (945mm)
Depth 16.25″ (415mm)
Height 90.25″ (2295mm)
Price: USD 1995 GBP 1125

2012 High Point Design Center UNITY in Design SAVE THE DATE

ZAAR Design Center will be OPEN!!!!

 hosting LUNCH on THURSDAY MARCH 1

…catered by EMERYWOOD CAFE

…followed by a PRESENTATION by Charlotte based interior designer, TRACI ZELLER

Online Registration OPEN @ www.highpointdesigncenter.com!

Leave time, or come back…to shop product by our trade partners: Bellascenda, Kat Burki, Touchwood UK, Cabeen Originals, Total Design Source, Flambeau, The Elizabeth Lucas Collection and Antiques by Zaar.

Words to Wrap My Head Around in 2012

…just a little diddy on how I am approaching this next year, for my business/my life.

Last week I shared, in this blog,  my “Life” words. And here I just want to share with you one more missive on “words” for my year.

The concept of capsulizing  in a handful of words what I resolve to prioritize for my New Year is something I’ve done for the past 3 years now…a practice I find more useful than resolutions, per sea . For instance, in 2011 I honed in on Focus, Presence and Growth,  and which I wrote about in this blog….2010 was  Structure and Discipline, although in retrospect the 3 words that would best describe the “essence” of that year would be determination, ownership and accountability…the year before that was Responsibility (at ALL levels)…you get the drift.

These words are not to be simply replaced with new words, but more so relevant words are grabbed onto to couch the essence of the priority for the year…each years words serving to build up from one year to the other….with continuity of  ”Spirited Vision” being the constant that serves well to make Life more a continuum than a series of ends and beginnings….at least that’s the way I like to look at it.

Before moving onto 2012 I feel the need to ponder just some of the landmarks for me this past year…things that I could grab onto and say, “hey, I did that and it mattered in my world. yeah me!”

This can be as simple, but certainly relevant, particularly after I got over the issues of adjusting to each change , as the fact that in 2011 I  upgraded all computers, data base systems and accounting/credit card processing software.  Or the unanticipated but opportunistic, move of my High Point NC warehouse this past August, to a location that really hits it on the mark, and where I am happy to call HOME to my inventory and also the evolving ZAAR Design Center…which, by the way, now has grown to have 8 partners showing with Antiques by Zaar!  Or that my participation in the blogging world was acknowledged by my peers at WITHIT, who asked me to moderate a round table on blogging at their annual conference last August. Or, on a personal level, that a decision was made, and acted on,  to sell the family home, after 12 years, in Maine, AND to that end had it listed just prior to Thanksgiving.  I know there is so much more,  but these are some of the building blocks laid last year that serve as foundation for this next year.

And so, with this backdrop I share with you here  my 3 benchmark words for 2012.

HONOR

…my Self, my Family, my Friends, my Business, my Vision, my Talents, the Gift of Life I’ve been Given, the Opportunities that come my way….the renewed Commitments I’ve made to ALL of the above manifested by Being True to All and Living a Life that is one of diligent steadfastness…and fun!

BELIEVE

….or “trust”  in My Self, in the goodness of those around me that are there to Love and Support me, in the Value of  My Commitment and the Gift given from Hard Work…BELIEVING that my efforts will be Honored and that it is simply for me to do the work and BELIEVE that I will be compensated accordingly… And that it is Mine for the Making And Taking.

ACHIEVABLE

Who and what is stopping me? Can be painfully honest here and say it is ME. Yes, the economy has participated in offering challenges to me and my business/life…but, nuts and bolts is that it comes down to ME, what I do, what I HONOR, what I BELIEVE, what I FOCUS on, how I make my PRESENCE known and what I do to foster my GROWTH….see, last years words all here  ….and, as simple as it sounds, Believing that “It Is Achievable” gives me no out, as, that it is!

A tall order here….this blueprint to help me plot and plan and move into 2012… with  the effervescence of all these wonderful encouraging and inspiring sentiments couching my every move.

2012. Bring it on!

Ruth

P.S. …and if you have words you’d like to share that serve you well for this coming year…I’m all ears.

Things to Look Forward to @ ZAAR Design Center in 2012

It’s a new Year. Welcome, Welcome.

It’s a fresh start for all of us, to make what we can of the days/months/year before us….be it for ourselves personally and/or professionally. For those of us that fuel a business the balancing act continues, but the MISSION/Focus of our Passion, spurs us onward… in spite of roadblocks….be it that they come from economic conditions, or self inflicted conditions…dare I be so bold to suggest suggest the latter has more impact than the former? Whatever the case may be, it is for each of us to overcome and reach forward, and so….onward!

As the heart and soul behind ZAAR Design  Center I want to reiterate how thrilled I am  to have the wonderful companies and range of product available @ ZAAR to launch this new year.  I am  similarly excited about the possibilities that lie ahead for all of us as our collective presence is anchored in High Point, at a GREAT new location,  for the benefit of those companies represented, as well as for the customers that benefit from having this venue/product collection available for THEIR benefit. Yes, one of those win wins.

So, what specifically to look forward to?

High Point Design Center Designer Wednesdays:

As always, the 2nd Wed of each month, yes, that means tomorrow is the first such day for 2012,  we are open 9:00-5:00.  Jeff Moore will be manning the space, offering refreshments and ambiance, and, of course required information while you peruse/shop the various collections available in our 12,000 square foot showroom.

High Point Design Center UNITY in Design Event: February 29- March 2

For the 3rd year running I am thrilled to offer a luncheon and speaker during this event. Traci Zeller,  Charlotte based designer, blogger, mom of twins, and so much more, will be our feature speaker. For those attending this event, please join us on Thursday March 1.

If you are a Designer and don’t know about this Event, allow me to give it a huge plug here. This is my 4th year participating in such and the feedback from Designers that attend is nothing but glowing….with over 60 showrooms open for biz, informative and educational presentations, a trade show AND multiple venues to network socially with fellow designers as well as showroom managers…. It is first rate and I highly recommend you considering joining us. I’ve heard it be called a “mini Market” You won’t be disappointed! Visit their new website to stay tuned/register.

High Point Furniture Market: April 21- April 26

All will be there with bells on.  

Some of our members (Flambeau Lighting, Fortunata, Cabeen Originals, Touchwood UK and Elizabeth Lucas Co.) have showrooms in the Market buildings, and I encourage you to visit them there during Market. Will be letting you all know where to find these showrooms as the time nears.

Bellascenda, Kat Burki, Total Design Source and Antiques by Zaar present soley at ZAAR Design Center. So, please schedule a time to check us out as well @ 1500 Green Drive.

NOTE: Our new location is just over a mile from the heart of High Point and free transportation is available AND free parking available if you choose to use us as your landing point.

High Point Furniture Market: October 13- October 18.

Of course. Will look forward to introducing you to new partners that will be joining us between now and then…

ZAAR Design Center Online:

Website: Meeting this month to get the wheels turning on this and hope to be in place by April Market. So excited.

Facebook Page: Have been piggy backing on Antiques by Zaar page, but have made page for ZDC as well and will start posting there. So yes, would be thrilled to have you “like” ZAAR. Link here…for your convenience. :) Blog/Newsletter: Will continue this on and will be  adding features, to help you get to know the companies/product and people behind all, through these online venues….and yes, posting on Facebook.

It’s ALL GOOD!

Look forward to hearing from you/connecting with you and/or meeting you/providing you with resources, of all kinds, from none other than High Point, the Furniture Capital of the World.

Ruth

Haitian Ironwork Home Accents @ ZAAR

Yes,  12 years ago I started my online business selling Chinese Antiques, Antiques by Zaar… But my FIRST business, started back in 1985, was that of importing and selling Haitian handicrafts…something I was “led” to do after a 5 year stint living in Haiti in the mid ’80’s….if interested you can read my full story here as to the how’s and whys of that biz AND my biz today…

Yes, Kado D’Haiti was my first entrepreneurial venture, also documented in the ABOUT US section of my site,  and I passionately promoted this business, which supported the economy of several hundred people from the sales I was able to garner… selling boat loads of banana bark greeting cards, bead necklaces, sisal handbags, leather masks, decorative iron work, wooden apples, and more… It was a great way to “give back” and this venture I fervently worked as we moved from Boston to Toronto, had 3 babies, and right up to the family’s 1991 move to Asia, at which time I passed the Kado torch to my younger sister, which she continued until her health gave way.

But the business of buying/selling Haitian handicrafts continues on through my family, namely my elder sister and her daughter, who donate proceeds of the sales to the work of FIDA-PCH, the development organization my parents founded over 20 years ago, and which my sister serves as it’s leader, and is a model for community development to this very day.

I am so excited to be working with Betsy and Alexis, providing a venue for further exposure to the work of FIDA-PCH, selling the fine crafts that they literally hand carry back from Haiti on their frequent trips. I have a selection of decorative ironwork pieces, still popular/more refined than what we were selling 20 years ago...from wall art to candle holders, to candy dishes and Christmas ornaments. Also have some wooden bracelets,  “bone” necklaces and rings available.

It really is nice to add this to the offerings at ZAAR for so very many reasons.

I hope you enjoy  checking  out what we have on Designer Wednensdays, the 2nd Wed of each month, or otherwise by appointment, at 1500 West Ward Drive, High Point, NC….at least until we can get online and be available 24/7🙂

Ruth

P.S. I plan to add to this collection when I visit my family in Ontario in January…so, stay tuned!

NOTE: 10% of all proceeds go towards the continuing work of FIDA-PCH in Haiti.

Limited Edition Mixed Media Prints…

…by the Elizabeth Lucas Company of Ketchum Idaho, and now available at ZAAR Design Center.

For 13 years  Elizabeth Lucas has run a successful high end furniture store/design business in the the lovely Sun Valley…and was in that context that she and I first met in 2006 at the High Point Furniture Market….a relationship which has continued over these past years.

Was delighted and excited when I received the call 3 years ago, when she, with husband Scott, were preparing to come to High Point…this time as exhibitors!

Yes, Elizabeth was branching out,  passionately promoting a line of limited edition  mixed media prints… inspired and created by artist Sean Fox.

The medians for these prints  go from the basic single layer prints over canvas cloth, to multi layer prints; printed cheese cloth over printed canvas, to recycled cardboard printed with layers of paint, resin and stain… each offering a unique feel/flavor…but all warm! Nature, animal, and Asian themes are prevalent, complementing the unique mediums used.

Working a direct to the trade business, the artwork is being well recieved by the design community, as Scott and Elizabeth tirelessly present at High Point, Atlanta and New York trade shows.

It is with great excitement to  have a selection of these unique pieces of art available to my customers that visit the ZAAR Design Center, in High Point, between Markets….open the 2nd Wednesday of each month, as part of the High Point Design Center, from 9:00-5:00 and otherwise by appointment.

If you missed them in their IHFC showroom last month, or aren’t able to see them in Atlanta, the show they are now preparing for, be sure come and check them out in High Point at ZAAR, as we have a nice representative selection available for sale.

Flambeau Lighting: Lighting New Orleans Style…

…that IS Flambeau Lighting, in a nutshell….and, as stated in the Oct 2011 feature article in Enlightenment magazine,  ” it embodies the bon vivant spirit of this unique city through its lighting designs.”

In business for 11 years, Joe McKearn, founder of Flambeau, had the vision of Flambeau “leading the parade” just as the original flambeau torch bearers did prior to the days of electricity…and that he does with a finely tuned team of artists/designers Paul Gruer, Benjamin Burts and Elaine Gleason.

With shared passions for antiques, infused by the essence of New Orleans, each artist brings a unique aspect to the creation of the lamps presented by Flambeau, and sold directly to designers/retail store owners.

I was introduced to Flambeau last year, when a friend, thank you Tracy Johnson of Home Furnishings Business mag,  suggested I approach Joe, the owner, regarding the possibility of year round visibility in High Point by joining my evolving ZAAR Design Center.

Am so excited that Flambeau  has indeed joined us, with a selection of showroom samples now set up within ZAAR, available for customers to purchase.

So, if you didn’t have a chance to visit Flambeau during Market, be sure to stop by at ZAAR Design Center, which is open 9:00- 4:00 the 2nd Wednesday of each month, yes, the next date being December 14th, or by appointment.

We are conveniently located at the former Drexel Heritage Factory/corner of Green and Ward.

Look forward to spreading the Flambeau word, and of course selling their product at ZAAR.

Welcome Flambeau!

Ruth

P.S. Be sure to “like” Flambeau on Facebook and check out their website.

Centers of High Point Collaborates….

…with ZAAR Design Center!

Making plans to attend High Point Fall 2011 Market? When you come see the new ZAAR Design Center on the corner of Ward and Green, take advantage of our free parking and enjoy a continental breakfast each morning.

It’s a service we’re able to offer thanks to the generosity and collaborative spirit of The Centers of High Point.  We are thrilled to report our patrons will be quickly and easily transported downtown, because the Centers of High Point shuttles will service ZAAR Design Center too. Just phone 336-887-7433 when in High Point for a ride downtown on the Market Authority’s Go Anywhere Shuttles, or 336-885-0650 to catch a lift on a Centers of High Point shuttle.

The Centers of High Point, located at 401 South Hamilton, has the distinction of being the first Showroom in High Point to offer an independent shuttle service, which has grown to a fleet of no less than 14 vans. The fact that they have extended their service to include those who visit/park @ the ZAAR Design Center, is a Gift that I do not take for granted.

So, thank you, thank you, thank you…to the folks at the Centers of High Point, for being one of the many stars that have lined up to help us make it easy for everyone to include ZAAR on their Market agenda.

Here’s to a successful Market for us all!

Ruth

Kat Burki presents the Clyde Chair….

…..at the High Point Furniture Market!

“The unique shape and wide frame of the Clyde give it a sleek and contemporary feel. The light green floral design of Libra perfectly balances the modernity of the piece with a soft elegance.”

Want to try this out for size? Have a sit and see for yourself?

Gorgeous from all angles, the chair is “there” for you…there being the ZAAR Design Center, recently moved to the corner of Ward and Green, in the former Drexel Heritage Factory.

Come and check out Kat Burki’s Clyde as well as other fabulous pieces presented from her collection…a sneak peak here🙂

Bellascenda: Your Source for Furniture to hide/lift your Flat Screen TVs…….

…and a founding member of the ZAAR Design Center….

Trudy Simmons, the heart and soul behind Bellascenda, has been in the business of creating beautiful furniture to lift your flat screens, for the past seven years.

Proudly made in the United States, in addition to the year round showroom at ZAAR, now at the corner of Green and Ward, Bellascenda also has a permanent showroom in Dallas, @ the Hemisphere Design Gallery, in the World Trade Center, booth 9009, and can also be found online, as part of the TODL (Trade Only Design Library).

Bellascenda represents that sector at ZAAR that previously had a showroom space in the “main” buildings, and in 2009 opted for a lower cost/year round presence with ZAAR.

Thank you Trudy for being a ZAAR Design Center anchor, ….not to mention becoming a dear friend along the way.

If you have any need for furniture to beautifully hide and lift your flat screens, Bellascenda is the business you need to check out….and yes, is in High Point, at the ZAAR Design Center.

NOTE: All pieces shown in this post are available to view @ the ZAAR Design Center…during Market and the 2nd Wednesday of each month 9:00-5:00, or by appointment.

Total Design Source Introduces the Gene Chair

Thrilled to be announcing the inclusion of Total Design Source to the ZAAR Design Center!

Based out of Old Saybrooke CT, with a 2 year old retail location, Chantal Lawrence, the heart and soul of TDS, has been running her architectural and interior design business for more than a decade.

She and I would cross paths as she sought out, online, some Chinese accents for a client…that which would be 9 years ago now. Throughout the years, as we’ve continued to do business together,  a friendship has been forged as we also call on each other for advise, support, sources for services etc etc.

As I’ve followed the establishment of her retail store, click here to see photos of her beautiful store,  she has been following closely the evolution of my ZAAR Design Center. So happy that she thinks it is “the” place to reach out to the designer community that frequents and shops High Point, to….

…introduce her Gene chair, which she is successfully selling to her retail and design clients in Connecticut, and is excited about introducing the line at High Point Market later this month.

                                                      Designed by Chantal, the Gene Chair is styled for comfort, for beauty… for todays’ discerning  living environment. Proudly designed and made in the USA!

I am THRILLED that she is joining me at ZAAR Design Center…representing the sector that says “no line is too small” to show at ZAAR!

Ruth

Kimberley Wray Marketing Communications…

….is who you want to call on in High Point to get out your good word….

I have always believed in the Spirit of cooperation and the sharing of resources. I also believe in serendipity and that if we’re open to receive, opportunities come our way….up to us if we choose to walk through those doors…  I similarly believe that if you remain true to yourself and your vision, that what you ultimately believe in, can and WILL become your reality….and  as I tell my kids…as long as you know the what’s and the why’s the how’s will work themselves out….

But, more specifically, and as is relevant to this particular missive, I also believe in the intrinsic value of positioning and thereby growing my business with its base in High Point North Carolina…..AND I believe that there are others out there that believe in same AND that a cooperative Spirit of those of this mindset will indeed thrive and thereby High Point will thrive as Home Furnishings Capital of the world it is known to be….not just for Market, but throughout the year.

Kimberley Wray is one of those people that shares this belief with me and it didn’t take but 3 seconds into meeting with her, to get her up to speed on what ZAAR Design Center is/hopes to be, that I KNEW I had made the right decision in calling her and asking if she’d work with me to get the word out for Fall 2011 Market.

And that she has done/is doing….and more.

Two days ago Kim “let ‘er fly” and said release went to the press. Since that time I’ve fielded calls from editors for phone interviews from four different publications, and the release has already been posted online in three different venues; namely Furniture Today,  Home Furnishings Business and the Greensboro News-Record and that is only 2 days following release!  More is to follow, this I know.

So, as I blog away, the press release I have left in the competent and caring hands of Kim….who not only writes to ensure it will be read, BUT also has the relationships with all the people we want to put out the word!  I am so grateful to not only have her as my ambassador for my vision, but also to hold her close as a dear friend.

….So should YOU need a voice for YOUR business, might I suggest calling on the services of Kimberley Wray of Kimberley Wray Marketing Communications…..you’ll be glad you did.

Her resume is beyond impressive, see her LinkedIn Profile, but the fact that she served as the VP of Marketing for the High Point Market Authority, gives her a perspective that is priceless for those of us positioning ourselves for visibility during Markets. October 22-27 are THE next 6 days that matter!

Her contact info as follows: email kimwray@aol.com

O: 336.889.5889 C: 336.880.3999

Ruth

ZAAR Design Center and Metropolitan Warehouse & Delivery

….yes, after 4 years, I have FINALLY, landed a HOME in High Point; suited perfectly for my Antiques by Zaar inventory, AND my new ZAAR Design Center!!!!!

Although I had moved just under a year ago, when the opportunity presented itself for a location a mere mile from the heart of High Point, AND with my trusted shipper Metropolitan as my landlord, the decision became a no brainer…

Yes, I have been using the services of  Metropolitan Warehouse and Delivery for at least 3 years, and it is without hesitation and with great delight that I  recommend their services… and do so every chance I get. Thank you Chantal, of Total Design Source, for putting me in their direction in the first place….

Now, with the recent purchase of the 300,00 square foot building, formerly the Drexel Heritage Factory,  they are not only able to offer High Point based businesses  shipping nationwide, collaborating with Justo Shipping,  but also storage facilities to those that may have such need. A total of 190 units, each 400 square feet, have been sectioned off, and can be leased on a monthly basis.

My corner of this massive facility consists of 12,000 square feet of prime real estate; private entrance, loading dock, climate controlled office/meeting room…for those High Point Design Center Unity Event lunches I host each Feb… showroom space separate from inventory AND a ZAAR specified rest room facility….and yes, there is room to grow. J

Very much looking forward to welcoming you into the new ZAAR Design Center, at 1500 West Green Drive, during the Fall 2011 Market…also open the 2^nd Wed of each month, and otherwise by appointment throughout the year….AND, on behalf of Metropolitan, I know they look forward to servicing not only my customer base, but all that are looking for a reliable blanket wrap service and/or storage facilities, conveniently located in the Heart of High Point!

Ruth

Chinese Vintage Style Garden Stools

Ever popular, and in recent years difficult for me to source, I am thrilled to once again offer a line of Chinese Garden Stools from Antiques by Zaar…..

Great for indoors or outdoors, these accent pieces are not only visually delightful, but also easy on the pocketbook.

Click here to see all that I currently have as available.

If in High Point and want to view these in person, you can do so by visiting ZAAR Design Center….open the 2nd Wednesday of each month…otherwise by appointment….retail and trade business both welcome. Look forward to hearing from you!

Ruth

www.antiquesbyzaar.com

ruth@antiquesbyzaar.com

Collection of Italian Pottery Available @ ZAAR

Fortunata, makers of fine Italian pottery and ceramic pieces, maintains a prescense at the ZAAR Design Center….below being a sampling of what is  available for sale, to retail and trade customers alike. 

….just love how  the Italian pottery accents the Chinese antiques so very well!

Come and enjoy a shopping experience at ZAAR!

ZAAR Design Center is open from 9:00-5:00 the 2nd Wednesday or every month, next date being Wednesday May 11th,  or by appointment.

Let me know if you are interested in stopping by.

Ruth

ruth@antiquesbyzaar.com

866 868 9227/ZAAR

Cabeen Originals: More Handcrafted Furniture @ ZAAR

How great, especially during your High Point debut, to have a piece showcased on the cover of Home Accents Today….such was the case for Cabeen Originals of Chatanooga TN, as shown here.

Thrilled that Aaron, heart and soul of Cabeen originals, has decided to maintain a year round presence in High Point, by showing product at the ZAAR Design Center. All pieces showing are available for purchase, or you can contact Aaaron at sales@cabeenoriginals.com  for further information on custom products….

….or visit his website to see wider array of the fine work he produces   www.cabeenoriginals.com , or join his newsletter list.

Welcome to High Point Cabeen!!!!!

Enjoy here a sneak peak of the pieces we have to show/sell @ Zaar.

Open 9:00-5:00 for Designer Wednesday May 11th, or by appointment.

Ruth

Kat Burki: Bed, Bath and Boudoir Store Grand Opening

Kat Burki, wears many hats, and the one she wore with grace and charm this last Thursday night was that of hostess extrodinaire as she welcomed a flurry of guests into her newly opened store in Westport, CT…where it’s all about presentation of a quality/branded line of products, personally overseen by Kat.

Thrilled that I was able to attend the event, see Kat in all her glory, and be infused by the ambiance that  was prevalent as the evening unfolded.

Upbeat music, champagne, sweets and a bevy of people filled the beautifully appointed space that is the new Kat Burki Store…bringing you all you need for your bed, bath and boudoir.

Congratuations to Kat and her wonderful team. Thrilled to see your prescence bloom in Westport CT and further be established in High Point NC….yes, at the ZAAR Design Center.

www.katburki.com

Click here to see more photos…the ones I was able to take before my batteries died🙂

 

 

Touchwood UK: Showing Fine English Furniture in High Point NC

Fine English Hand Made   Furniture.
Cabinet Makers and Joiners.
Be-spoke Fitted Furniture.
Dealers in Fine Antiques

A long time prescence at the High Point Furniture Market,  Touchwood , this UK based company, can be found exhibiting/selling in the Suites @ Market Square, G 2043, during the “next 6 days that count”, which is…

Saturday April 2- Thursday April 7, 2011

AND

If you want to view/shop @ a non Market time, am pleased to say that Touchwood now has a year round presence at

ZAAR Design Center

220 Feld Ave,

High Point, NC

Buy models off the floor, or simply check out the fine craftsmanship and follow by contacting Steve, yes, he lives in England, where his furniture is manufactured, regarding your needs.

NOTE: Although they carry stock items, their specialty is custom designs. If you haven’t acquainted yourself with this company and thier fine product, you must visit their Suites @ Market Square showroom, G 2043 this Market or otherwise @ ZAAR Design Center and see what they can do for you…expiditiously from their UK production facility.

As proprietor of ZDC, I welcome this wonderful addition to our offerings.

Ruth

 

Fortunata: Fine Italian Ceramics & Pottery

It is with great delight to announce that Fortunata will be having a presence at the ZAAR Design Center this High Point Furniture Market, which is right around the corner, starting April 2!

….and of course they will also be showing from IHFC, Space D304, where you can see their full line.

At ZAAR we will have a representative selection that are available for cash and carry, and/or serve as a means to whet your appetite for more and go visit Margaret, the life and breath of this company, and order from her vast array presented at their IHFC showroom.

Margaret’s collection of Italian pottery/ceramics,  and mine, of Chinese Antiques, have served each other well since my very first Market back in 2004, when her showroom designer approached me about using one of my altars as part of her then Suites at Market Square display. Was thrilled to have a piece serve to showcase her product, and it was that which served as the venue for us to first become acquainted with each other and our respective businesses. Such it would be that 4 years later we would be neighbors for 2 Markets, as I moved from my orignal Market Square location down to Suites….and it isn’t any wonder that we share a customer base that already shop both of our collections, which delighted in having us in one convenient location….furthering my delight in having Fortunata at ZAAR going forward.

Since then Margaret has moved to IHFC, as noted above, and I have taken residence showing from my warehouse at 220 Feld St…where we, after Market, serve the Design Community the 2nd Wednesday of each month (9:00-5:00) and otherwise by appointment.

The product is lovely and I just couldn’t be happier having it part of the mix at ZAAR.

Do come and see/shop for yourself.

Ruth

ZAAR Design Center: A Growing Presence in High Point

As this is a fresh start, ie, first blog under it’s own banner,  I thought I’d give some info on what ZAAR Design Center is premised, starting with how it came about and further suggest,  ie, if you have product you’d like to promote/sell  from High Point NC, the furniture capital of the world,  why considering joining us as a venue to broaden your own base may be something to ponder.

I am the founder/owner/chief cook and bottle washer of Antiques by Zaar, an online based business my husband and I started in 1999. The only “brick and mortar” we’ve ever had was a showroom in the High Point Furniture Market where  we went to reach out to the trade more effectively, and have remained committed to doing  so since  Spring 2004.   In 2007 we started to move our entire collection of Chinese Antiques  from our Maine warehouse to High Point NC. entrenchinig ourselves further.

 With warehouse in place, by Spring 2008…took a full year,  it made sense  to promote a year round presence in High Point and thus was delighted to align and join the forces of the High Point Design Center, whose mission was to do just that, focusing on the Design community to benefit from the resources available in High Point, the renowed furniture capital of the world.

Frankly, I thought I had the pefect formula…show during Market from a showroom in major downtown High Point building, supplemented by balance of inventory being nearby…..always on the ready, with personnel available for such visits, to take people to see our collection….during Market and otherwise.

2009 was a landmark year for many, myself included, and tough decisions had to be made if one intended to stay in business, and as such, in prioritizing where  would I spend what resources I did have…well,inventory replenishment won over on showroom rent…go figure.

So, with fear and trepidation I confidently announced to my world that I would be “showing” from my warehouse location… a mere 2 plus miles from downtown High Point. That was Fall 2009.

 I am now, truly confidently,  a proud member of one of the  many many businesses that  show from outside of the “hub” of downtown High Point and am excited for my growing presence.

ZAAR Design Center is “becoming” because I want to/and am able to offer the same opportunity I have, to show in High Point, at a cost that is not prohibitive….during the bi annual Market, and also year round.

The formula which is working for me, and which I wish to suggest/offer to others is….

Year Round Availability:  Yes, have a representation of your product available to show  for each and every Market, and great if you can do it in a major building where traffic is heavy,  but also throughout the year.  So many designers prefer to shop “off season”…in a more relaxed setting and where they get more personalized attention.

High Point Design Center:  Become a member….and be OPEN for their “2nd Wednesdays”, where they advertise who of their 80 members is open for business on said day,   and take benefit of the larger events planned, such as the Unity in Design which was just held in Feb. AND, otherwise be open on an appointment basis.

Have Someone Represent You: You don’t have to live in NC to do this.  I live in Maine and go to High Point only  4 times/year. I am able to bascially run my business “from away” as I do because I have someone working on my behalf that treats the business as if it’s her own. She works Market with me, works Designer Wednesdays , takes appointments in between and, and and…

Let Your World Know That You’re There:  We all know we need a website and that without it you are as much as missing a “face”. The job is to get people to that website and/or to shop your product in person, and there are 2 cost effective ways to do this.

“Social Media” is all the rage and if you’re engaging in it at some level, that  is indeed great…case in point this blog as a venue to reach out to my facebook, twitter and linked in connections, but which I also share in my newsletters which I post to my previously established audience….and which in turn I can share through my social media venues. They serve each other well.

But, many of us are running a lean ship and we’re already stretched…adding one more “to do”, especially where there is quite a learning curve if you’re green to social media,  can put us over the top. So, at minimum do an…

Online Newsletter:  Social media, in my world,  is reaching out to a new audience, but many of us already have an audience, a following….ie our customer base.  So, at bare minimum we should be reaching out to these people, who know us and care to hear about us, by way of the cost effective/efficient, write one/send to many, newsletter. Constant Contact is what I recommend and many business owners follow suit…

I am so very pleased, humbled, and proud, to be here…to have a business that has made it to the other side of 2009…and in fact Feb 2011 was my best month in sales since Oct 2008!…and feel that the above formula has played into this success. ZAAR Design Center is there for others, like me, that….

• Have, “had”in my case,  a showroom in High Point which has inventory “rest” in 10 months of the year, unavailable for prospective customers to see.
• Want to establish a High Point presence but not quite ready to take the plunge to show in a central showroom, for a “maybe it will work” kind of thing…
• Understand that it is a game of Presence, Persistance and Patience…AND that sharing resources, giving people a bunch of reasons to visit a particular location, and servicing them well when there, will in the end serve you, and all involved, well.

I believe in the future of High Point, in it’s viability to continue on as THE resource for the Home Furnishings Industry, and I’m excited to continue participating in this, as I do, for my own business and also through what I can offer others by way of joining me at ZAAR Design Center.

Welcome to my world!

Ruth

ruth@antiquesbyzaar.com

www.antiquesbyzaar.com

Growing and Connecting in High Point “The City of Showrooms”

The annual Unity in Design Event, as hosted by the High Point Design Center, has recently come and gone. And I, as I have since 2009, wended my way to High Point to participate as a member showroom. And, as per usual, I left it feeling like I did something right for my biz by “showing up”, if you will.

That first year I knew better than to expect  people come to visit my recently opened warehouse…I just knew, and I was ok with that.   I had determined to  plant myself near the registration desk at 200 Steele and chat up with designers as they signed in. When I would give them my card, a sign of recognition would be noted when they saw my logo. “Oh, I know you! I get your newsletters.”One of the benefits of membership in HPDC is that you have access to a qualified list of designers, that currently numbers over 2,500. Following I would attend the networking events which had been organized and simply chat up my business, Antiques by Zaar… as ZAAR Design Center was only a concept warming up in my head at that time.

For the following 3 years I decided to step it up and as such we hosted luncheons, followed by a speaker.

What a great line up I’ve had! Terri Maurer, of Maurer Consulting, Bobbi Cox, of Dragonfly Design, and Traci Zeller, of Traci Zeller Designs. All expertly engaging the groups that gathered, with relevant information, each offering focus on various aspects of connectivity , as part of their presentation. Thank you dear friends, for your vital contributions.

Thank YOU Traci!!!!!

FYI, the common thread with the “connections” I had with each of my speakers  is that they were all fostered online. Terri was a 2006 Antiques by Zaar customer (stayed connected via online newsletters but we connected further on Linked in). Bobbi and I made initial connection on LinkedIn and then had that flash of recognition when someone introduced us to each other  at a High Point sponsored luncheon/seminar and Traci and I initially met, ever so briefly, at a HPDC sponsored Elle Decor book signing @ Market, that I volunteered at, and fostered our connection online following.

 

In the past 5 years, I have moved warehouses 3 times…with each move getting myself closer and closer to the heart of High Point. Yes, I’m good with my current location/no intention of moving again soon. And in the past 5 years ZAAR Design Center has evolved from, well, nothing, to an entity that is supported by 15 companies that show and sell with us.

And, yes, we’ve come a long ways from that very first Unity event, where I planted myself at the registration table, just to be sure I connected with some people. Yes, ZAAR  enjoyed a steady trickle of designers stopping by to shop our collection during Unity. The comment we’re hearing frequently is, ” I’ve been meaning to get here/so glad I did!”

And we are glad you did as well.

So, thank you High Point Design Center, for standing behind your mission of showing our customers that High Point is a relevant source for them throughout the calendar year, and thank you, to all the designers, that came out to get to know us/do business with us…this past week at Unity, during the Designer Wednesdays and whenever else we can avail ourselves to you.

As we all go about this business, High Point, “the city of showrooms”, has an opportunity to reinvent itself and continue to merit what has been its long standing reputation as THE Home Furnishings Capital of the World. So, let’s do some business in High Point, eh?! We ALL win.

Ruth

www.zaardesigncenter.com