Green Art Deco Desks: A hit in High Point since 2006!

I have been struggling with how to capsulize the many wonderful things that transpired during the recent High Point Market, and have finally come to terms that it will simply have to come out in driblets as one posting simply would not suffice….and would be way too long for a single blog.

I choose to launch this by honing on  the absolute staying power of my little  Art Deco Desks, in particular the lime green version,  for they held as much impact in 2012 as they did back in 2006, when   featured  in this 2006  Home Accents Cover, continuing to make an impression, by the fact that not only was it “Style Spotted” this year, but also chosen as an accent piece in the C.R. Laine Showroom…

….and similarly showcased in Shane’s Collection store at 201 N Main, also in High Point. Yes, they were everywhere!

It is also popular with, ZAAR Design Center member, Designer Kat Burki, who also has a bath, body,fragrance and candle line, as she used a non matching pair so elegantly in her Southampton show house dressing room….which later were showcased in a  2010 Traditional Home article featuring  Kat and her work.

…and Antiques by Zaar customer Babette Glauner, added this pop of green when revamping her bathroom.

Similarly, would it be any surprise that in my own home, one of these fresh treasures can be found in my daughter’s bedroom, show casing her Disney globe collection?

Traci Zeller, who “Style Spotted” the art deco desk, also spoke to an audience of 40 people, on Sunday, @ ZAAR…sharing her insight and expertise on what a Social Media presence can mean for your business. How appropriate that I gifted her one  of my art deco desks, and she chose, what color, but green!

Thank you Traci. And thank you to all who continue to find charm, as there is ALWAYS space (my daughter has one in her 390 square foot studio apt in Toronto!) in the addition of my kang chest/converted to art deco desk…read about said transformation here.

 

A “Pop of Color” is Loved/Presented by…

Traci Zeller

colorful and styling designer, blogger, speaker …and did I mention she is all this as the mother of twin boys, who also passionately works to help other moms of multiples?

next gig:  Style Spotter @ the High Point Furniture Market AND speaking @ ZAAR Design Center Sunday April 22. Join us for our first “lunch and learn” where Traci will address Social Media: Why NOT Engaging is NOT an Option. Drop me a note if you’d like to join us.

C. R. Laine.

proud producers of  hand-cut, hand-sewn, and hand-tailored furniture in North Carolina. …since 1958.

Their News?  They have moved their showroom, from IHFC, to the Hamilton Court Building, Space 201…excited for the fresh visibility and a showroom double the size of thier previous location.

And???? Antiques by Zaar is thrilled be adding to their colorful collection, with Soicher Marin, Currey and Co, and Design Legacy.

Shane’s Collection ….

as is evident by his vibrant window display of his store stocked with colorful mix from Currey and Co, Kate Guy and Antiques by Zaar.

Katy Allgeyer aka Feng Shui Girl

…debuting her “Fortunate Flowers” mixed media series at ZAAR Design Center this market!

Hannah Dee Interiors…

yet another colorful designer who JUST launched this spanky new website.

and Antiques by Zaar

…who is, for the first time, offering customers an opportunity to ORDER their own “pop of color”…as introduced in this recent newsletter.  Place your order by May 5th for July delivery!

Look forward to seeing you for a very colorful Market!!!!

Ruth

 

Adding to the Coastal Allure With Chinese Antiques

“Chinese antiques are integral in many of my projects, whether residential or hospitality interiors. They add confidence, strength and color to both  traditional and contemporary interiors. For me, their age and their lines hold the intrigue of stories untold of places far and away from our shores.”

 Jan Lamont/Coastal Architects.

antiques by zaar customer since June 2008.

With offices in Nanaimo British Columbia and Kittery Point Maine, the name “Coastal Architects” is most appropriate for this husband and wife team of architect and interior designer, who “commute” between the two coasts and have ongoing projects in both.

Am thrilled that back in 2oo8, when working on a hotel project, that they let their fingers do the walking and found the Antiques by Zaar website, and within a rather tight time frame we shipped off a loveseat and pair of chests to Maine from our North Carolina warehouse.

The beautiful Stage Neck Inn in York Harbor Maine, one of their many east coast clients, recently had a redo of thier lobby lounge, and per Jan’s above statement, are you suprised that a smattering of Chinese antiques found their way into the comforting  area that overlooks the ocean?  I had occasion to swing by there a couple of weeks ago on a return trip from High Point NC to my home in Maine, and grabbed a few photos, to share with you here…

NOTE: A lovely fireplace is also situated in this room but didn’t photograph so as not to be intrusive the couple that were enjoying their newspapers by the roaring fire.

 

Tilton Fenwick: These gals are Everywhere….

…and I know them, love them and want to give a shout out!

KNOW I am only scratching the surface, and I KNOW that I am one of MANY that are shouting out to Suysel and Anne and their fine work, but add to the noise I will….

So thrilled for the continued exposure and success of their 2010 established “boutique” NY based interior design business…momentum which just seems to keep on going…

V and M , Vintage and Modern, included them in an eblast that came through  my email today,where they were featured and shared some of their “likes” ….

On twitter last week I read about the gals heading to the gala event at the NY Lillian August store, launching New York City Cottages and Gardens,  where they created the window display, shown below, which will be up for this coming month. See bunches of pix here, at the Tilton Fenwick blog.

….don’t  miss the” touch of Asian” added to the mix in the attention getting window display, by way of a ceramic garden stool….something they also used in the Southampton Showhouse this past summer.

Traditional Home loves them enough that they were included in their 2011 list of top 20 designers to watch, AND, now Elle Decor has them on their watch list, as Sarah Firshein,  Curbed editor,  nominated them as Blogger’s Choice for Interior Design!

…yes, that is just a teeny bit of what these gals are up to.

LOVE all that you are doing. LOVE the energy, passion, style and sense that you exude.

Yes, a fan, and thrilled to have you as a customer and friend of myself and Antiques by Zaar.

Ruth

Read previous post on Tilton Fenwick here.

 

Nancy Strojny/SCORE Maine “Champion of Change” …

….and MY SCORE Mentor. How lucky am I eh? 

I KNEW, from our very first meeting, summer 2010, that I had been simply Gifted by way of Nancy coming into my world, blogged about it/SCORE here….How wonderful that she has joined such an auspicious group of similarly committed mentors in being acknowledged, as they all were, just yesterday, at the White House.

With a 20 plus year career at Proctor and Gamble, and now running her own consulting firm, she no doubt has experience, which brings with it wisdom which she so readily shares.

But even more so she brings a warm directness, yes Nancy is gifted at giving one the most polite “kick in the pants” than anyone I’ve ever known…. a willingness to take YOU on as the whole package, offers a perspective that is impossible from the vantage point of working in the trenches, gives guidance and advice, but with the knowledge that ultimately the decision to act upon any of it is up to you. She gives permission, something we need to be doing for ourselves btw, to make a decision, and then to do the unthinkable, change your mind as things unfold and change for you/your business.  She isn’t afraid to be straight and because you know she cares you are grateful for the honesty…and the push.

She shows pride in your accomplishments and understanding when you need to take time to “clear the path”…but always always always bringing you ever so gently back to you and your dream and making you believe in your possibilities and doing whatever she can to help you reach the goals you set.

There is no doubt of her committment to the process and to you as the person and the business you represent and as such she is right there with you…as your mentor, as your cheerleader, as your guide, as your champion, as you butt kicker, and as your friend.

In her intro yesterday she said she wanted to give back what she was given by the “extraordinary group of men” that mentored her at Proctor and Gamble, and thus her deep involvement in SCORE, which is such a good place from which she can do just that. I am but one voice saying that she has so done that. Yesterday, she was nationally acknowledged that she, in a very big way, is doing  just that for many others ….

And so now EVERYBODY knows what a great mentor I have!

…yeah me. Yes, we shall “rock on!”

Ruth

previous posting, I Scored with SCORE,

 

Thank you to MY Beautiful Women….

….as it is Beautiful Women Month and I thought I’d like to acknowledge such by way of sharing a rendition of a letter I originally sent to a long list of my “angels”, back in 2008.

HERE I serve to acknowledge, that which has grown exponentially for me, since that first writing in 08, the great value that I’ve been Gifted by MY Beautiful Women, and for which I am truly grateful. You all ROCK!

Some of you I call my family….my mother and mother in law, sisters, daughters, nieces,aunts and cousins.
Some of you are old friends from lives gone by… school chums from Kitchener and Winnipeg and from my years living overseas in Haiti, Thailand and Taiwan…and also from the 4 years in Ontario with my young and growing family.
Some of you are my “Maine” friends, where you’ve contributed to making it my home for the past 12 years.
Some of you are customers that have become more than that as we both took the chance and got personal.
Some of you are business owners, like myself, that I have met as a result of being out there doing my business.
Some of you are fellow members of the Androscoggin chorale, which I’ve been privileged to sing with for 7 years now.

Some of you I came to know through the business of raising and selling our golden retrievers.

Some of you I grew to know and love as friends of my sister Linda, as we jointly embraced her through her illness.

Some of you I’ve met through my membership with WITHIT and High Point Design Center.

Some of you I have been blessed to have as partners/support in my business at ZAAR.

Some of you are people that have simply come across my path and we have “connected”….be it by way of a blog, twitter, and/or facebook.

ALL of you are women of substance.
ALL of you have touched my life in a way that you cannot know.
ALL of you have shared with me a part of you that I now call my own.

All of you have a Story.

All of you are Beautiful.
And ALL of you have given of yourself to me, and I now would like to give back, by, letting you know.

My life has been enriched by the force that comes from sharing with other women…..  And,what I know for sure is that the presence of each and every woman that has come into  my life has contributed towards my life moving forward.

And so, just this moment to say thank you.

Thank you for being there.
Thank you for being who you are.
Thank you for the ear.
Thank you for your caring.
Thank you for your understanding.

Thank you for your encouragement and support..
Thank you for your gift of friendship.

Thank you for your sharing.

Thank you for your example.

Thank you for opening my world to this wonderful “sisterhood” and becoming part of my Circle of Angels. I am so blessed.

Ruth

 

Chinese Antique Sideboards Perfectly Positioned…

…. in an entry or  hallway,  a living room, dining room or bedroom. Yes, a Chinese Sideboard could just be that which serves you well….   Just check out below how some of my Antiques by Zaar customers have so beautifully worked them into their decorating schemas. …going to have to call this my “touch of Asia” series eh…first window screens and now sideboards.…

Enjoy!

R    

…and if you think a Chinese Sideboard might be what will work for you/your client, be sure to check out the entire selection available at Antiques by Zaar by clicking here.

Look forward to hearing from you….

Ruth

 

More “Words” for 2012…

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, and then it’s full steam ahead….

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!

...more words, as gifted to me by my daughter.

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.

 

Classic Chinese Carved Screens

….simple elegance, in house or garden.  Great way to add a touch of Asian ambiance.

Just see here the many ways they’ve been used by my customers.

P.S. If interested in adding this look for yourself, Antiques by Zaar has a fresh lot en route from China as we speak. Click here to view all that is on that shipment, and here to see screens currently in stock.

 

My “Life” Words: Launching into the Blogosphere for 2012

I LOVE starting a fresh journal and 2012 marks the  6th year for keeping a daily journal… a practise which has become so much a part of me that my day just isn’t quite complete until I fill a page with my thoughts on the day that has just passed.

In addition to this daily journal, which is “tidy” in that it is in a bound book, and has a confined space to scribe my notes for the day, I also have journals that hold more in depth entries, that I tend to write when flying somewhere, and I have scads of “notes” scattered throughout the pages of assorted notebooks/daily minders and simply on scraps of paper that I happen upon.

The below comments on “LIFE” are just such a scribbled note to myself, and with my handwriting, this is one serious scribble,  that I came upon stuffed in the back end of   my new daily minder for 2012. It “appeared”  to me as I was about to shut down for the night, hoping for inspiration for this blog to come after a rest…and so, I am just kind of sort of feeling that it was these words that are what I am meant to share with you in my Launch Blog for 2012.

Life… is the one word I wrote, with the below listed out.

to give, grow, learn and love

to use stumbling blocks as stepping stones

to offer comfort and solace

to be caring and understanding

to give it my best shot

to Laugh from my Heart

to show Spirit

to know that there is Power in One Good Soul

to respect People and Life itself

to Smile from the inside out

SHINE

to be Blessed and be a Blessing.

….and so, with sharing these words here I can toss that  messy sheaf of paper, dated 9/24/10, finish up my cupo tea, lightly laced with amaretto, have a soothing tub, and make my daily journal entry, calling it not only a day, but a Good Day!

Ruth

 

 

 

My First Post

It has been over a year since I first read (11/07 issue of Entrepeanor magazine) that it would behoove me, to further the growth/exposure of my business to engage in social networking and blogging. This past September I attended  the Carolina’s chapter of ASID conference in Raleigh Durham (as representative of the High Point Design Center) and in two of the presentations given, I was once again presented with this idea of both social networking and blogging.  And so I determined to delve into understanding better this world and enter it, in spite of my intimidation.

And so, not unlike when I went live with our first website in August 2000, I admit to jumping in here, not understanding all that I probably should (but possibly enough) ,  considering that the best way to do so, is to simply start and let the learning curve begin. Or to put it another way, let my love of writing/sharing with people over ride my lack of knowledge on the technical side of connecting and getting the word out.  (With husband on board to further the logistics of me getting the word out, I am able to get to the stage of posting this blog, and hopefully many more.)

Yes, I joined a couple LinkedIn a couple of months ago. Enjoying reconnecting and look forward to further taking advantage of this venue of connecting with people that have come into my life, or are pondering such, in particular as they consider doing business with me. (More on LinkedIn in a later posting.)

Since 2004 I have been faithfully posting a newsletter to a list that has grown to over 3,700. Although the impetus for each newsletter is to pass on information regarding our business (new inventory purchased, new inventory arrived, new pieces presented etc etc) I have taken to couching the “meat” of my newsletters with a more personal touch.  This blog is to serve more as a venue for me to make the personal touch the “meat” and couch it with information on my business.

Yes, I have plenty to say. As a self employed entrepeneur working from a home office, running an online import/retail/wholesale business, successfully selling Chinese antiques, as a mother of 3 college students, as an ex expat (Haiti,Thailand, Taiwan and the States if you count that, for I am a displaced Canadian ) , as a breeder of golden retrievers, and ????

It was the suggestion that social networking/blogging would further the exposure/growth of my business. That is my excuse for taking these opportunities to get to say what I have to say on the various roles I have played in my life (as noted above) as well as stay in touch with the many people that have come into my life over the years.

I hope you will find this interesting. I look forward to staying in touch using this venue.

Ruth

 

Adding to my Christmas Cheer

Am in the process of ticking and tying my Christmas newsletter which will go to 3,700 plus people (customers/prospects) on my mailing list early next week.  I feel good about the fact that I am diligent in the posting of this newsletter as I am in the posting of a Christmas card (which Zach designs for me) to our customer list of 1,300.

My diligence however, in staying in touch with people that are not on either of these lists is less than impressive and gives me cause for personal recrimination on a yearly basis.  I am hoping to alleviate a good deal of this via the publication of this blog. Yes, have found yet another reason to be writing via this venue on a regular basis. (Only now to make all those fine people aware of this posting.)

My Christmas is all about a few basic things and is focused around having all my children around me. Yes, all have returned from school (Zach and Avery from McGill in Montreal and Ari from U of Western Ontario in London) for the Holidays. The girls have fulfilled the baking requirements for the Season and have assembled plates (not unlike what we did when they were much younger) to give to thier friends and we have warmed up the Scrabble board for competive (yet friendly) games. I have had my Christmas concerts and party following, both of which give me great joy. And of course a litter (our 6th) of pups adds to everyone’s pleasure.

And now, by way of this edition of my blog, I am adding to my Christmas cheer by further spreading the word of what’s up with us. I would welcome word from you.

2008 has been one of dramtic changes, all of which serve as a solid launch pad for what promises to be an exiting ride in 2009.

I look forward to keeping you abreast of all and similarly hearing from you.

So, from our house to yours,  nothing but the best of wishes for Happy Holidays, and a Magnificant New Year!

Ruth
www.antiquesbyzaar.com

 

To The Launching Of A Prosperous 2009!

Resolutions, Goals, Committments, etc etc. Whatever you call it it seems “the time” to reflect on the year past and project on the year ahead. Although I do ponder this somewhat every year I feel more prepared to fully engage in this process of setting forth Goals (my term of preference) and furthermore resolving to be true to them. And so I join the chorus here with my first blog for 2009 with a diatribe on just that. 

Got a jump start on this process as I started jotting down my 2009 goals just after Christmas, in a notebook which I allocated for just that.  I have since worked on fleshing out my broadly  stated goal of ” being fully responsible for myself on ALL levels;  emotionally,spiritually,physically, financially, socially, orginizationally, personally and professionally.” (Did I miss anything?) To further this I noted my need to set short term and long term goals, to ensure success in all veins. I chided myself to not give up, to not let myself down, to understand that setbacks will be there but to plug on, to call on support, to give myself rewards and to encourage myself forward….ALL to further My Well Being on ALL fronts. Yes, all comprehensive.

Following I took each part addressed and fleshed out the goal for each Ie, emotionally/spiritually I determined I wanted  ”to be strong and secure in myself and to shine from the inside out.” and then noted what I felt I needed to do daily/weekly and monthly to work towards that end. You get the gist.

This is not novel or rocket science but I felt the desire to share this. There is no doubt or any question that we are in a challenging time economically not only in this country but world wide. And as such it would be so easy to  let my business slide (What’s the use, nobody is shopping. Not quite true by the sales I’ve made already this year.)  to embrace a feeling of ill will,  (Doesn’t everybody feel like crap? Well, if we want to join the band wagon, go for it.)  or a feeling of discouragment/futility (Aren’t we working against such incredible odds?  Yes, but do you want to feed into it?) and lead on to feeling justified in eating poorly and not exercising because, well,why not?

My point is that I believe we all have a choice in how we plan on facing what is undoubtedly a difficult time. Everything you hear on the news tells us that we should be scared stiff. I prefer to think of it as a time for us to collect ourselves, set our priorities, and be challenged. And so, my challenge to me, is to not get caught up in the wave (rather a Tsunami wouldn’t you concur?) of fear but instead, as noted as my broad range goal, take full responsibility for myself. Nope, nobody else to blame but myself should I fall  into the quagmire of negativity, doom and gloom, expecting all that isn’t good, and feed on the fear.

I’m still working on detailing my goals but I feel really good about the inroads I’ve made and I feel good about what I feel I can anticipate for 2009 with the mindset I have set for myself. My belief in my success is growing daily as I celebrate each step I do make towards tending to what I have set out for myself, not overwhelming, just comprehensive.

As such I feel that I can do my part to promote a healthful, happy and prosperous future.  By being true to myself; by giving of myself to my precious family,  by turning to my dear friends, and working for my loyal customers, I know that I can look forward to a prosperous year, no matter the economic tone of the times.

I look forward to sharing with you throughout this year and similarly hearing from you on how you are engaging in making 2009 a prosperous year.

Ruth

www.antiquesbyzaar.com

 

Social Networking: From a Babe in the Woods

Social networking, like the internet, is not going to go away and so it is for us to find out what it means to each of us; should we try to ignore it (not possible), should we engage in it (and at what level) and how far should we go with it?

Welcome to my Blog!

  The business model for Antiques by Zaar was, from the outset, based on taking advantage of what was offered by way of the World Wide Web. As such we determined that our online store, www.antiquesbyzaar.com  , would be our only storefront, something which was a novel concept for the selling of something as personal as an antique. (Really, could we have found anything more challenging to sell online???) Not only did this set up keep our overhead down, and thus help keep our price point as affordable, it also put out our product to an audience with no geographic boundaries. Yes, we have over the years established a rather nice niche in the business of selling Chinese antiques online..com

 I will be the first to admit that we didn’t have “it” all figured out as to how this would all work, but we didn’t let this get in the way of us establishing a presence and working things out along the way.

 And so I find myself in a similar situation with “social networking”. No, I don’t have it all figured out but I am good to utilize that which is made available to me as a marketing tool for my business and as such am establishing a presence and figuring it out along the way. And might I add, enjoying some added personal benefits as I sense my world getting larger and smaller all at the same time.

 To that end, My Blog.

When I finally realized that a blog was anything you wanted it to be, and then decided what I wanted it to be for me, and then figured out best platform to use and lastly how to apply the “widget” so people could sign up and follow me, yes, with that behind me I am finally in the place to announce that this will be a regular offering.

  For any of the 3,700 folks that are on my newsletter list you know that I do enjoy writing on a rather personal level. Blogging is a perfect venue for me to do more of this without the “stuff” of business announcements. So, will be doing this weekly and will have special features. As such I look forward to bragging to you about my customers (retail and trade) that are willing to share about their shopping experiences and share with you abyzaar pieces as placed in their homes/projects.  I will also be doing features on interesting applications of Chinese antiques and offering some background on specific styles. And lastly, I will be giving my two cents worth on any number of topics that I feel I can contribute something to; pulling from my years of experience which span lives that include being an expatriate, (Haiti, Thailand, Taiwan and US, if you will) business owner, (AbyZaar is my 2^nd venture) mother (have 3 “young adults”), wife (23 years), dog breeder (just had our 6^th litter) and now social networker (just a babe in the woods).

 What I have recently realized is that this recent rage is right up my alley. I love to write, I love people, and I love connecting with people with my written word. I don’t know how many people my blog will attract but I am excited about putting it out there and giving as many people as want the opportunity to read. I am so glad that I haven’t let all the unknowns stop me from tipping my toes into the water of this new world and as such miss the wonderful opportunities that are there for me to do what I love to do most, connect with people.

 Yes, my world is getting smaller and larger as each day goes by, and I love it.

 

Also vist me on twitter or facebook or linkedin . 

 

Ruth 

 

Tobi Fairley: Congratulations & Thank You

Congratulations to Tobi Fairley who has recently been recognized and featured by Traditional Home magazine as one of the Top 20 young designers. Yes, she is to be to watched out for, and for more reasons than one.

 

Lieth and Ruth New River Artisan Showroom High Point

I had the distinct pleasure of meeting her this past February in the New River Artisan showroom, where she was the featured speaker as part of the Unity in Design Event, sponsored by the High Point Design Centre, of which I am a member.

 

 

 

Leith Satterwhite, (owner of New River and fellow HPDC member), and I had met in the Fall, (at the ASID Carolina’s conference in Raleigh Durham) and immediately connected. It was with pleasure that Antiques by Zaar would offer New River Artisans a handful of pieces to accent their wonderful carpet display for the High Point Market. And it was with similar pleasure that I accepted the invitation to meet Tobi during the Unity in Design Event.

 

Tobi’s presentation , entitled “Thriving in Tough Economic Times and How to Brand Yourself using Custom Product,” was received by an engaged audience of design professionals, who participated in a very vibrant q and a session following  her most informative power point presentation.

 

Of particular interest to me was her input on a new aspect of her profession as a blogger, and how she was further promoting her business via this venue.  As a fledgling blogger I was all ears and eager to learn from someone that had fully engaged in this new wave of sharing the good news. And as such, immediately upon return home I signed up to follow Tobi’s blog to see how an expert does it. I enjoy receiving her blogs and would encourage anyone in the industry to do so, as they are personable, informative and a delight to look at as she always has wonderful photos included to support her text, not to mention a plethora of product to promote as she does in her “Top 10” lists.

 

Her input on blogging supported her opening statements which suggested that the best way to thrive (not survive, but thrive) in these times is to “invest in your infrastructure, facility, systems, people and website….to be smart in these times as you would be in times of prosperity and to do what you do best” And for goodness sake “decide not to participate in the recession, but rather use this economy to open up a niche”

 

I thank her for these encouraging words, these directives, and for setting a stellar example to all of us, as someone that is most definitely not participating in the recession but rather embracing and charging forward like there is no tomorrow.

 

We can only all do what we can to have a place after “this” is all over and come out of the other end all the better for it.

 

 

“The Whole is Greater than the Sum of Its Parts”

 Here it was music that was the force/medium that brought us together, musicians to perform/ share, audience to receive, and give back by way of appreciation and it is ALL GOOD.

Performance of Carmina Burana, with Ruth Olbrych

This weekend I had the distinct pleasure of participating (as an alto) in 2 performances of Carmina Burana by Carl Orff. The stage was set; 65 singers, 2 grand pianos and a collection of percussion instruments. All eyes focused on our conductor as he motioned for the opening of what is a familiar and dramatic work of art. It went on for just shy of an hour. As the sold out audience was asked to hold applause until the end of the piece they dutifully obeyed, and as such, with the final notes, there was nothing less than an explosion of enthusiastic applauding and accompanying standing ovation. The energy was undeniable.

 

In the course of conducting my business I feel a similar energy/ force.  Here it is the most personal purchase of a piece of Chinese antique furniture that brings people to my website and to yes, to my world. Here people are welcomed, not only view the collection of hand selected antiques available, but also to know who it is they are doing business with.

Yes, your emails are indeed answered by Ruth Olbrych, owner of the business, said persons email address which is splashed all about the website.

And if you want to know about this person and her family you can do so by reading the About Us. If you want something more current you can visit the Past Newsletter section where you can get a taste of the continued personal presentation of company and collection updates. Sign up for company online newsletter.

 

If you want to know what her customers are saying and showing, then you can do so by visiting the Testimonial Section and Home Gallery.

If you want to see some of the Trade folks she does business with you can do so by visiting the Designer Directory.

If you want to see the media she has garnered you can visit the Media/PR Section.

And now, if you want to further qualify the reliability of what you are presented with on the website, you are given this opportunity by connecting with her by way of finding her on Facebook and LinkedIn and/or following her weekly blogs or her daily tweets on Twitter. Yes, she is very excited about all the venues made available to present the “package” to an audience beyond her mailing list.

She looks forward to seeing her world grow smaller and larger at the same time. She looks forward to sharing with you the many words she has to share, and she looks forward to hearing from you. Yes, she is me, and I am thrilled for the many opportunities afforded me to enjoy the energy that flows from my whole being greater than the sum of its parts, just as it was this past weekend performing Carmina.

 

Ruth Olbrych,

Owner/Operator

www.antiquesbyzaar.com

 

The Mill House Inn and Antiques by Zaar: Doing Biz Since 2002

 

The Mill House Inn, East Hampton, NY

May 2002 The Mill House Inn found Antiques by Zaar online, and that was the beginning of what has been a wonderful relationship between the owners of these two businesses, which continues on to this day.

 

The owners of both companies share a passion for Asian furniture and as one was in the business of importing and selling it and the other was in the business of furbishing their new venture, that being a guesthouse in East Hampton NY, there was good cause for these two businesses to come together.

 

In keeping with the personal nature of product/service offered the owners of both companies also share in their commitment to their customers/clients; working tirelessly to give them the ultimate experience. For the antique seller, making it easy for their customers to navigate their website, to know who they are buying from, to be readily available to send additional photos, answer questions and expeditiously ship. For the Inn Keepers it meant creating a warm and inviting environment for their guests, as well as providing every extra you could imagine, including a hearty and beautifully presented breakfast that is the talk of the Island.

 

Over the years Gary and Sylvia Muller, proprietors of Mill House Inn, have continued to upgrade their facilities, furbished a lovely East Hampton home, (which they have subsequently sold and replaced with the purchase of a sprawling farm in VT), and now have opened another delightful oasis for guests, by way of Graybarn Cottage.

All the while they have continued to rely on AbyZaar as their source to inculcate their facilities/homes with an Asian infusion, with no less than 62 pieces!

 

As a guest of the Mullers’ summer of 2007 I can personally vouch for the phenomenal experience any guest can anticipate at the Inn and it something not to be missed. And their special touch has now been extended by way of the Graybarn Cottage, which has just opened.

 

Please enjoy visiting our Galleria of Collectors where you can see a sampling our AbyZaar’s pieces in their East Hampton home, and also in the Mill House Inn. (More photos to be included on recent shipment received and placed in Graybarn.)

 

And should you be looking for a getaway, and a breathtaking experience, you MUST consider what Gary and Sylvia so proudly and warmly offer by way of The Mill House Inn and now Graybarn Cottage.

Happy to have them, not only as customers, but also good friends.

 

Ruth Olbrych
www.antiquesbyzaar.com
ruth@antiquesbyzaar.com
Find me on Twitter, Facebook and Linkedin

 

GOOGLE ME: Ruth Olbrych – Antiques by Zaar – Chinese Antique Furniture

 

AbyZaar High Point

If you were to Google Ruth Olbrych, it is consistently at the top of the first page that I am  on Linked In and Facebook. Similarly you would find that that I attended Rockway Mennonite High school, that I ran in the Beach to Beacon 10 k race, that I have a blog and that I have  press out there for my business Antiques by Zaar.

 

 

 

Also, consistently on the first pages is (of 955 listings) an article that was written about me, with reference to a talk I did  to the International Woman’s Association of Taiwan (of which I was membership chair)  http://tiny.cc/RTHeE shows up. Yes, back in 1998, with having lived in Haiti, Thailand and Taiwan, I was considered an “expert” on the topic of “Making a Home in Country Not your Own” and was happy to offer advise to those that were struggling with just that and apparently that article will “stick” with me on Google for some time to come, as it appears on pages following as well. Yes, once online, always online.

 

First page Googling the 16,500 listings for Antiques by Zaar would again bring you to my Linked In profile, several pages from my website,  and again, more than one rendition of my recent  press release announcing the move of my business to High Point North Carolina.

 

Further to this, if you were to Google Chinese Antique Furniture High Point NC, of the 11 listings on that first page 6 are all for Antiques by Zaar. In addition to pin pointing me on the map and once again reading about my recent move of center of operations to High Point, you would also see that I am a member of the High Point Design Center.

 

Google has yet to pin point  that as member of the High Point Design Center that I have recently formed a group on Linked In for all members and interested parties to come together for news on events available in High Point, not only during Market but throughout the calendar year. But now by way of this posting you know this. Google will catch it soon.

 

Soooo, all this is that you are welcome to read all about me and my business online. We are there, we are an open book and you know where to find us, online AND in the actual world, at IHFC M336, along with our warehouse open by appointment in High Point, NC.

 

I am so looking forward to the merging of my virtual and real worlds next week at the High Point Furniture Market.

 

 

Ruth

www.antiquesbyzaar.com

ruth@antiquesbyzaar.com

twitter

 

High Point Market and Beyond

Antiques by Zaar, High Point Showroom

High Point: From Market and Beyond

 

Have been exhibiting at the High Point Furniture Market since 2005 and as such have just finished my ninth Market. No, not a landmark number for me but landmark in that I have gone from having a minuscule presence in High Point with Spring and Fall Markets, housing my inventory in Maine, and only making the semi annual trips to High Point for the Market events. The completion of moving our base of business from Maine to High Point was cause for a Press Release which has been distributed through various online sources as well as in print in Furniture Today. (Thank you Furniture Today for timing the posting of that for Monday’s Daily Market edition!)

 

Yes, Market for Spring 2009 is over as is the anticipation of what it would bring, in particular considering these economic times. What it brought to my table is a wonderful collection of people that either discovered us or were drawn to us by our ads, editorial inclusions, or our website.

 

What I like about Market is meeting my customers/prospects face to face. I do so much of my business online and on the phone and this is an opportunity for me to shake hands, put a face to a name and recall warmly what made this person and their company special.

 

 Now, I am excited about taking advantage of the venues available to me to further communicate with all of these folks. Yes, monthly newsletters will be posted. Blogs will be weekly (at minimum) and I will also be communicating on the High Point Design Center Linked In group, which I manage.

 

Please join me as I share perspectives on Market and business in High Point following Market.

Antiques by Zaar, High Point, NC Warehouse

 

As such, the High Point Design Center is hosting the “Spring Fling” sale Wednesday May 13^th and Antiques by Zaar will be open at our warehouse location, 400 Mandustry St, High Point. Jeff Moore will be there to meet and greet. You will be amazed by our array of Chinese antique sideboards, consoles, armoires, chairs, coffee tables, tea tables, artwork and more.

For those of that came to Market, thank you and shall stay in touch. For those of you that were unable to attend, shall offer a perspective such that you can feel part of it.

Ruth

 

High Point Furniture Spring Market 09: Buyers Perspectives on Value

In today’s email I received a copy of an article offering perspectives from an array of people, but namely exhibitors that reported the benefit received from their efforts to put themselves out there. Antiques by Zaar contributed comment to this article, written by Devetta Blount.

 

Ruth Olbrych at High Point Market Spring 09

The reference in the article was to the comments made by my friend Chantal Lawrence, of Total Design Source in Old Saybrooke CT, who was thrilled for her decision to attend the Market after all, and left Market feeling her mission was accomplished and that she was prepared to add offerings to her store which she otherwise would’ve missed.

 

Judi Green 40 year High Point Market Veteran

Judi Green of Judi Green Designs in Huntington NY, has been visiting Antiques by Zaar since our days in the Market Square. Last year she remarked that 2009 would mark her 40^th year attending High Point Market. Was happy to acknowledge this during Market and thrilled that she agreed to pose for a photo so that I could include such in my blog. She speaks confidently of the future of High Point and its continued value to the Design community and looks forward to continuing on attending and supporting High Point Market.

 

Judy Soccio of Soccio Rodriguez Design was a first timer to High Point. She has a custom drapery business, based out of Monongaheley PA. She did her homework prior to Market and packed her 3 days with seminars, networking events and of course scouting suppliers. She was so impressed with offerings at High Point that she noted that it should be mandatory for all Design students to make the trip, at least once, as part of their curriculum.

 

Three women with 3 different businesses, and differing but consistent perspectives on the value they found in making the trek to High Point last month.

 

And on a personal note and what I find intriguing is how well they each represent the various venues Antique by Zaar has in place to be found. Chantal found us online, visiting our website, in 2002 and has been a valued customer (and friend) since that time. Judi Green, as noted above, found us in our original location at Market Square and has followed us from there, to Suites, and now to IHFC. Judy Soccio found me on LinkedIn, when she joined the group I manage for the High Point Design Center and where fellow group members helped her flesh out her Market itinerary with ample suggestions on events to attend during her visit.

 

High Point has a 100 year history and I believe a strong foothold for a 100 year future. The comments above merely offer a sampling of many that will do their part to keep High Point strong and viable for that future, as will I.

 

Powerful Promotion Tools for your Business

Twitter’s own “Positive Posse”, you’re all an inspiration.

 

Have you ever noticed how many Powerful words begin with the letter “P”? Let me know if you can add to what is put forth below.

 

The Phenomenon of social networking is forefront, with its Popularity and Pervasiveness which gives way to opportunities for us to Position and Promote our Presence via the many Platforms offered. Yes, Linked In, Facebook, Twitter and Blogging are all venues to Position ourselves.

 

Ruth Olbrych at Antiques by Zaar's High Point, NC showroom

On LinkedIn I Promote the Partnerships fostered through my Participation in the High Point Design Center, a group that Promotes year round availability to the Trade in High Point, N.C.  On Facebook I have created a Profile for my business, Antiques by Zaar, and similarly I tweet and blog for my business. I invite you to follow me along in any/all of these venues, to get to know me Personally.

 

 

Publicity also comes to mind with the Publishing of our Press release in Furniture Today, during the most recent High Point Market. Similarly, contributions to articles in High Point Market Authority press releases, as well as in Home Accents Today magazine, has helped put the Antiques by Zaar name out there. 

.

Happy to be Partaking in these Practices that Promote our Presence and as such Present us with Precious opportunities we may not otherwise have.

 

Hope you have found this Punchy, not pushy.

 

To PROMOTION, PEACE, and yes, PROSPERITY!

 

Ruth

WWW.ANTIQUESBYZAAR.COM

 

Antiques by Zaar and Red Egg: Two Women Move and Promote their Businesses in High Point

Red Egg, from the west coast, and Antiques by Zaar, from the east coast, were first introduced to each other in the Fall of 2001 in High Point NC. Ruth Olbrych, owner of Antiques by Zaar, was on her first visit to High Point Market, walking the show to see viability of exhibiting her line of Chinese Antique Furniture in this venue. Carol Gregg was a seasoned exhibitor, showcasing her collection (which included Chinese Antiques) in IHFC.

Screens by Antiques by Zaar in Red Egg Showroom

 

First meeting was warm and informative for the two women that shared a passion for Asian furniture and were each in the business of selling what they loved.

 

Fast Forward 8 years to 2009.

 

Carol has departed from importing the original Chinese antiques and moved toward producing furniture, including Asian inspired pieces, right in North Carolina. And when she moved her business to NC she also made the move (from CA) to live in High Point.

 

Ruth remains in the business of importing and selling original Antiques, and although her center of operation (namely her 12,000 square foot warehouse) was moved from Maine to High Point, NC she currently maintains residence in the state of Maine, making frequent trips to High Point.

 

The two entrepreneurs would not only meet again but find themselves as members of the High Point Design Center, and more so, as members on the marketing committee, for this organization whose mission is to promote year round availability to the Trade in High Point.

 

It was with great pleasure that Ruth was able to help Carol complement a table she had made (just in time for Market) with a set of Chinese Elmwood high hat chairs, as well as some carved window screens to further accent the setting.

 

Chairs from Antiques by Zaar and Table by Red Egg

It was with pleasure that each would actively promote the others business, not only during Market but also during the first Wednesday Events that they both participate in as members of the High Point Design Center.

 

It appears their paths will continually cross as they are given the opportunity to foster the relationship that was so casually yet intentionally started more than 8 years ago, as each work to grow their respective businesses from High Point North Carolina, the furniture capitol of the world.

 

It’s ALL good.

 

 

Ruth

WWW.ANTIQUESBYZAAR.COM
Antiques by Zaar Facebook Group
Follow me on Twitter
Join me on Linkedin

 

Heading South/Carolina’s ASID Conference and HPDC First Wednesday

The Carolina’s chapter of ASID is conferencing in Greenville South Carolina this weekend and I am excited about attending in the capacity of an Industry Trade Partner promoting the presence and availability of the High Point Design Center for our trade clientele, not only during Market but throughout the year.

 

I had the pleasure of attending their conference last Fall in Raleigh Durham, doing same. Not only was it a great opportunity for me to familiarize myself with ASID members, but also, as a new (and long distant) member of HPDC, to get to know on a relaxed and casual basis, fellow members.

 

ASID actively supports and promotes the HPDC and their relationship is furthered by joint membership in the Design Professionals of North Carolina, a group that was formed to present a cohesive and united front in a battle to quell taxing of Designers products and services in NC. Other groups that were part of this coalition were IDS, IIDA and NKBA.

 

High Point Design Center Receives Award from ASID Carolina's Chapter

(From L to R Joyce Allen: Ferguson Copeland, Ruth Olbrych: Antiques by Zaar, Jeanne Glenn: Karges, Shannon Hamed:Scott Thomas, Kay Lambeth: Tomlinson, Monica Peters: Habersham)

 

 The DPNC joined forces again with the production of the Unity in Design Event which was held this past February which was a great success. Read my newsletter “afterglow” report on the event.

 

Following the conference weekend I will be spending the next 3 days working out of my High Point warehouse. Should anyone be interested in visiting during that time please feel free to call and make yourself known.

 

Note that Wednesday June 3^rd, is the High Point Design Center’s “First Wednesday” event and as such there will be a plethora of businesses open for the shopping pleasure of those in the Trade.

 

Looking forward to this networking opportunity for HPDC and, of course, Antiques by Zaar.

 

ASID, High Point Design Center and Antiques by Zaar

On all accounts it was a great week.

 

The weather was splendid, the hotel historic and the town of Greenville SC charming. ASID Carolina’s, in my personal estimation really did it right by hosting their Spring conference at this time of year, in this lovely part of the country.

 

There are so many aspects of the weekend event (and 3 days following)  that touched me that I hardly know where to start.

 

As expected the event was well organized and efficiently run. The presentation by Lloyd Princeton was met with anticipation for his renowned reputation as an international speaker and we were not to be disappointed.

 

As a participant of the Trade Show, representing the High Point Design Centre, I, along with my 3 colleagues, were given ample opportunity to further promote our availability to the Trade, not only during High Point, but also throughout the calendar year.

 

HPDC members at ASID Conference

Furthermore, the continued merging of my online and real world moves forward as my email newsletter recipients now have a face to the sender of AbyZaar news they receive  and yet another meeting in person in form of fellow tweeter and LinkedIn member Starr Miller.

 

The three days following in High Point would further be a time to fuel me forward as I had opportunity to reacquaint myself with my inventory, make myself available for customers that did come for the HPDC First Wednesday event AND top the week off with a wonderful evening hosted by Carol Gregg (Red Egg) with a dynamic group of women, some of which are fellow members of HPDC but all which are members of WITHIT, a group I am also proudly associated with.

Ellen Geffen, Kim Wray, Shannon Hamed, Chemmine Taylor-Smith, yours truly and our hostess Carol Gregg.

 

Energized, focused and sensing that it is all coming together as the activity on my phone/email inbox this week would suggest. My website, newsletter, blogs, participation on LinkedIn and Twitter foster my virtual presence and my showroom and warehouse in High Point support such. Membership in vital groups (HPDC, ASID and WITHIT) offer further outreach.  As I discover the various forces that have directed particular people my way I am delighted to see how  all are working in sync. So, however you have come into my world, I welcome you with open arms and look forward to getting to know you better.

 

Chinese Antique Furniture: Presenting new Pieces en route from China

No better way  to launch Summer, than by adding a fresh infusion of pieces  to our collection. Excited to whet your appetite by way of presenting some of our newest additions.

 

I’m thrilled to share with you some pieces here that are of particular interest. ALL can be viewed by visiting this Link, where we post the pieces in one convenient location before going into their appropriate categories on our website. Enjoy the preview!

 

 

Click Here for details

Tibetan Scroll Cabinets and Chests are popular and hard to come by. Pleased to be adding several. To see other Tibetan pieces already in stock, click here.

 

 

 

 

Click Here to View

Chinese Sideboards/Vaults are great to serve as base for entertainment centers and have a fresh infusion to add to our existing stock which you can view here.

 

 

 

Click Here to View

Classic High Hat officials chairs, made of Elmwood are a must have for anybody offering Chinese antiques. A great accent piece to add to any room décor. Click here to view other chairs in our collection.

 

 

 

 

Click Here to View

Another classic by way of Altars with everted ends, that tell tale characteristic that announces the heritage of these particular pieces. Click here to view our entire collection of altars.

 

 

Click Here to View

Desks made of bamboo. Fineness in presentation should not detract from the solid structure of these pieces which are not only show pieces but also good for every day usage. More desks to view here.

 

 

Thank you for the opportunity to introduce these pieces that are new offerings for us, as well as acquainting you with our site. Look forward to hearing from you should you be interested in garnering more information on any of our offerings.

 

DDM Designs and Antiques by Zaar

It was the Fall 2005 High Point Market where Deborah Morcott of DDM Designs would first be introduced to Antiques by Zaar, and a warm relationship would ensue, as she worked to choose not only pieces that were showcased in our showroom but also which I presented to her online.

 

The “find” of us was timely as she looked to accentuate a warm and gentle ambiance in what was her then project on the table, the Center for Holistic Healing in Savannah GA. What better way than to add an infusion of Asian by way of some Chinese antiques?

 

 

Not only did the venue call for such pieces but, as noted in the About Us on DDM’s website, Deborah was drawn to such with a background and global experience (she’s upped me having lived in six different countries. I’m at five) and as such brings an international perspective to her design, melding the best of the arts with practical innovations and inspirations from other nations.

 

Chinese Antique Sideboard from Antiques by Zaar

This is most evident by the combination of art, form and function in this Mongolian console which she not only placed in the reception area of the Center but also artistically is placed on the Home Page of her website.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chinese Antique Cabinet from Antiques by Zaar

In the Fire treatment room a she found a corner for a mid sized console which is accented with candles and airy decorative artwork.

 

Chinese Antique Desk from Antiques by Zaar

Art Deco desks were placed in both the Water treatment room and Earth treatment room. As always, accented with candles and serene wall art.

 

Thrilled to share with you these gorgeous photos that Deborah has graciously passed on to me, and thus serves to launch my “AbyZaar Designers Share” series, which is meant to not only to show off how wonderful our pieces look in particular applications but also to show off my customers. Deborah Morcott and DDM are one of the same as it is her business and her passion and I’m thrilled to have her come into my world by way of my business and my passion, Antiques by Zaar.

You can also find Deborah’s company proudly listed in our Designer Directory on the Antiques by Zaar website.

Ruth Olbrych
www.antiquesbyzaar.com
ruth@antiquesbyzaar.com

 

American Cancer Society/Discovery Shop & Antiques by Zaar

Cancer touches the lives of so many people. I am not exempt from this with my younger sister battling with this for the past several years. As it is we live quite a distance from each other but I try to make several trips/year to visit as a show of support and can only hope that it helps her to know that I am in her corner.

 

Ruth and Linda visiting

 

 

The American Cancer Society has far reaching effects because of the magnitude of this disease. The success of their fundraising efforts is further enhanced by how the organization is run and also the caliber of volunteers they are able to call upon to organize the wide variety of events hosted.

 

 I would like to take the opportunity here and now to sing the praises of the group that solicits for donations from the High Point Market exhibitors for the Discovery Shop at Smith Mountain Lake, (near Roanoke) VA.

 

Pair of Red and Black Chests Donated by Antiques by Zaar

For the past 3 Markets I have had the absolute pleasure of meeting and talking to the dedicated teams that are working on behalf of this Discovery Shop; an outlet which is unique in nature of the 80 plus such stores nationwide, in that it specializes in selling only high end new/nearly new furniture. The success of the quality and quantity of items donated attests to the commitment, professionalism and warm and personable nature of the personnel that are soliciting vendors during the High Point Furniture Market.

 

Chinese Antique Green Stool

I look forward to the absolute honor of continuing on as a contributor to the Discovery Shop at Smith Mountain Lake, VA and should you be in the furniture industry, would invite you to join me in doing the same.

 

Chinese Antique Blue Stool

Dee Kropf has been coordinating these efforts from High Point for the past 7 Markets and I had the pleasure of meeting her this past Spring.  Feel free to contact her at dee@deearn.com for information regarding donating items or shopping the store. I hear it’s a beautiful area to visit, and in particular this time of year. I plan on doing so on one of my runs from Maine to High Point in the not too distant future.

 

Hope you enjoyed the photo’s and if you have a chance check out the American Cancer Society/Discovery Store.

 

Chinese Design Dining Room Table

Antiques by Zaar is pleased to be adding this Elmwood Dining Room table and 8 chairs as a contribution to the Discovery Shop at Smith Mountain Lake.

 

Ruth Olbrych

HTTP://www.antiquesbyzaar.com

Ruth@antiquesbyzaar.com

 

Tibetan Treasures by Antiques by Zaar

We’re pleased that we are able (as we have since inception of our web based business in 2000) to continue offering a selection of Tibetan pieces to our customers. And here would like to offer a small introduction to Tibetan furniture in general as well as to pieces we have in specific.

A 2003 Antiques by Zaar customre uses this Antique Tibetan Sideboard as a base to display her golden gilded horse.

Furniture was rarely used in Tibet, other than by the wealthy and the religious, and as such not a surprise that most pieces were found in the monasteries. Although simple in form it is the decorative and colorful artwork that makes the Tibetan pieces stand out.

 

Antique Tibetan Book Cabinet

Although you will find some darker toned piece it is more common to see pieces that are on the vibrant side of colorful with the prevalent colors being shades of red, yellow and green, with dabs of blue. Painting was generally reserved for the façade of the piece with the tops more often than not being red or just left in natural wood tone. Favored woods used are fir, pin and other Himalayan soft woods.

 

Themes commonly depicted on the furniture are of Buddhist symbols (such as the three jewels, Buddha, Dharma and Sangha), power symbol creatures (such as intertwined dragons, lion, tiger, mystical giling, elephant or birds), and ritual offerings including flowers and fruits.

Often times these themes, with their vibrant color schemes are enhanced by the use of gesso, which is the working of a gypsum paste, allowing for the creation of raised painted decoration, which simply adds further allure to these pieces.

 

Tibetan Antique Sideboard

Joinery on the pieces is simple. No nails or screws used, similar to traditional Chinese antiques and doors simply in place by pegs that are placed in carved holes. In fact often times it is hard to discern which panels on the cupboards open and which are solid as pulls are not always used to differentiate a door from a solid panel.

Traditional Tibetan Antique Cabinet

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

For more information on Tibetan Furniture might I recommend Tibetan Furniture: Identifying, Appreciating, Collecting, by the renowned expert in the field, Chris Buckley.

Ruth Olbrych
www.antiquesbyzaar.com
Ruth@antiquesbyzaar.com

Tibetan Furniture: Identifing, Appreciating, Collecting by Chris Buckley

 

Happy First Day of Summer/Father’s Day

It has been a rain filled day in Maine, this first day of summer/father’s day and as such it was with ease that we could tear dear old Dad away from gardening duties for this day.

 

Recent Transplant Project by Mark and Avery

 

 

 

Aside from engaging in the seemingly never ending job of gardening and mowing he has also taken on another insurmountable task of chief caregiver of our three children these past 10 years as I have engaged in being the front person for our business, Antiques by Zaar.

 

As such he took over the kitchen (not that I, admittedly, was ever fully engaged there previously) has honed his skills of cooking, and we, as a family, have not only benefited from his culinary delights but also the after dinner “chat sessions” that we all settle into after eating. With schedules as they were in high school, sitting down together as a family for the majority of our meals was not an easy feat and I am proud to say, that because of his diligence, we have that all important dinner time serve as an anchor to our family, and continue on in its importance as they come home for college visits.

 

Mark and the kids enjoying one of his dinners.

 

Mark playing Santa still

“Playtime” with the kids has also been his thing. (I did crafts.) He did rough and tumble in the bed, dolphin races and games in the pool, fishing, skiing, bowling, organized family croquet tournaments, board games, breakfasts out and movies up the wazoo. And, even now, as the “kids” are 22, 20 and 19, he just can’t quite give up greeting them Christmas morn as Santa Claus.

 

 

 

Because of his career path it was such that the children had the vast and invaluable experience of growing up with a global perspective not otherwise easily gained. The moves from Canada (Zach was only a few months old when we moved to Canada from Boston MA), to Thailand, Taiwan and finally Maine, helped them to be not only adaptable but accepting of cultures other than their own. They have lived in large cities, in the suburbs and on a farm.  Foreign countries, sub tropical countries and countries where the seasons change as we know them have all been home to them. Now, all in school in Canada, they have come full circle, back to their first “home” country. Your guess is as good as mine as to where they will settle, but I know that they will be fine wherever “it” is.

 

Mark and the girls visiting Peaks Island. Our first "home" in Maine

 

Zach and with one of our puppies from our last litter.

They have been kids of a Dad that was for their early years corporate and they have been kids of a Dad that took the plunge to the entrepreneurial world. They have contributed to one of our endeavors by way of assisting with the care of the 6 litters of puppies we had while we ran our hobby business at Peacock Hill Farm; learning responsibility as well as the pain of letting go, but at the same time feeling good about sending off  pups well and to good homes. 

 

And so, on this  Father’s Day, I am taking this moment to acknowledge, Mark Olbrych, the father of my children, Zachary, Arianna, and Avery, and the indelible mark he has made on each of their lives, and will continue to do so as he now forges forward to what is his life, with them launching into their own.

Ruth Olbrych
www.antiquesbyzaar.com

 

Using Chinese Antique Window Screens and Doors

Almost 10 years ago to the date, we made the bold move to the United States after living in Asia for just shy of a decade. We had enjoyed our time and the people in Asia and wanted to keep that sentiment strong, surrounding ourselves with memorabilia in our new home in rural Maine.

 

View of my office with my Chinese Antiques

 

The chairs and screens shown here are part of a “housewarming” gift from my husband, to further add that flavor of Asia to our home. The gift that keeps on giving though, is the business we established, importing and selling Chinese Antiques. Buying an antique can be very “personal” and I am happy to be able to add to that my own special touch as I try and make buying an antique from Antiques by Zaar the next best thing to going to China yourself.

 

Although I’m decidedly keeping this set of folding screens, over the years we have been able to locate and sell similar sets to our customers. Commonly used as room dividers, or as backdrops, they have also been used otherwise.

 

Chinese Antique Screens used as Decorative Wall in the dining room

 

 Chantal Lawrence, of Total Design Source in Old Saybrooke CT, found us online in 2001 and has been an Antiques by Zaar customer/friend since then. She backed a set of screens/doors with mirrors and mounted them on a wall to serve as backdrop in the dining room of her Asian infused home. Unquestionably, a wonderful and innovative way to use these carved screens. You can find TDS in our Designer Directory.

 

The carved screens were generally made of Elmwood and often carved on one side, leaving the back side flat, to facilitate the attachment of semi-transparent protective paper or cloth, for they were used as we would use glass in a window.

 

Chinese Antique Window Screen as Decorative Wall Art

The screen shown here is in an Antiques by Zaar customer’s home in Guilford CT. This particular screen is made of pine and is intricately carved. It was a  perfect fit in the space he had between two rooms in his new house. The accenting of the stone statue on a simple Chinese bench, placed in front of the screen completes this lovely setting.

 

Some screens tell a story, such as this set of seven panels which hail from the Fujin province of China and date to circa 1890.

 

 

Set of 7 Fujin Chinese Antique Panels

Chinese Antique Window Screen

Others are more basic, showing the status of the previous owner as being much “less than” that of the owner of the decorated set shown above. These screens not only serve well on any wall, but would also fill in well hanging loosely inside of a window frame.

 

No matter the stature of the previous owners there is beauty to be found in the either the simplicity or the complexity of carving on what we know as traditional Chinese carved window and door panels. You can visit our offerings on our website and also see more of how our customers are placing Chinese antiques in their homes, in our Home Gallery.

Ruth Olbrych
www.antiquesbyzaar.com

 

Buying Chinese Antique Desks on Line

It is not uncommon for me to hear from prospective customers a sense of insecurity as they ponder an on line purchase of a large item, like, let’s say, a desk. Such was the case for Liz, in New York City, as she was scouring the internet for pieces to accent her apartment. Our conversations online and eventually on the phone started back in January 2003 and the base of a relationship was formed.

 

Chinese Antique Desk and Chair in New York City

The photo above showcases the desk that Liz was pondering, and did indeed purchase. Allow me to share with you the email I received after delivery of the desk, which you can also see in the Home Gallery section of our website.

 

 

“The desk arrived, right on schedule. I’ve been trying to compose a note that would express my appreciation for your service and how pleased I am with this piece of furniture without sounding “over the top” but I guess I’m just going to have to gush a little bit. First, the desk is beautiful. Frankly, the picture on your web site did not do the finish justice. I’m still amazed that I bought something this beautiful over the internet with no hassle and no problem. You made the entire process not only painless but fun. Thank you again for everything and I look forward to finding enough room to fit in another piece. Best to your family, (human and canine)” 02/06/03

 

 

Chinese Antique Red Lacquer Desk from Antiques by Zaar

Yes, I was able to garner Liz’s confidence enough for her to not only purchase the 3 piece traveler’s desk, but over the course of the years to purchase a total of 17 pieces from Antiques by Zaar; some of which she placed in her NYC apartment and some which she has placed in her vacation home in Cape Porpoise Maine, the latter which I enjoyed seeing first hand when visiting her last summer. During my visit I grabbed some photos which you can see in our Galleria of Collectors on our website. I think you’ll agree that the Asian infusion works very well in the relaxed setting of a vacation home.

 

 

Chinese Antique Traveling Desk of Elmwood

Our pieces are indeed one of a kind and although Liz’s desk as such has not been available again to us, we do have in stock a lovely natural wood toned Elmwood traveler’s desk. Our signature rubbed wax finish has been applied to this desk which hails from the Shanxi province of China. The inverted bat hardware (Fu, which means “Good Luck”) on the drawers adds further character to this simply stated and functional piece.

 

 

And if you like bamboo we can offer you the below desk, which is en route from China along with a container of other pieces, which you can view by visiting this Link. For our complete collection of desks you can visit our DESK section on our site.

 

Chinese Antique Red Lacquer Bamboo Desk

Should be no surprise that I would have a Chinese desk (or two) in my own home and leave you with this photo of our reading room, with desk in place.

Chinese Antique Black Lacquer Desk and Chair

Ruth Olbrych
www.antiquesbyzaar.com

 

Gaita Interiors, Chinese Screens, & Antiques by Zaar

Although I just did a blog on the usage of Chinese screens I wanted to share with you the blog that Gaita Interiors just put out with a similar bend, titled Chinoisiere Screen: A Timeless Interior Design Classic.

Gaitia Interiors Logo

 

Meg Braff Interiors June House Beautiful

Her blog was not only informative but a pictorial delight, including, among other photographic references, this image as created by Meg Braff Interiors and showcased in issue of House Beautiful.

 

After showcasing the multitude of venues screens are used she offers resources for those that want to create the look themselves and DYI, followed by sharing with you sources for buying the “real deal”, and that’s where we come in.

 

Chinese Antique Four Panel Screen

So glad we found each other on Twitter and are able to serve each other as resource. Thank you Leona for the added exposure for our business and hope I can do the same for you.

 

Ruth
www.antiquesbyzaar.com

 

Happy Canada Day & 4th of July

American And Canadian Flags Flying at the Olbrych's

With myself being Canadian and husband being American, and as such our children having dual citizenships, we feel it appropriate to fly both flags at our home in Maine, and we proudly do just that. Similarly, with Canada Day and Independence Day back on back this week we feel it timely to acknowledge our gratefulness for the opportunities afforded to us by citizenship in each of these fine countries.

 

We are also grateful for the experiences afforded our children by way of the years we spent living in Asia. And although we don’t fly flags for Thailand and Taiwan we certainly acknowledge our time there by the furnishings and accents throughout our home. (Of course with a little punch from Haiti, where Mark and I met and lived pre children.)Yes, we were pretty much “full up” even before we started this business of importing and selling Chinese Antique Furniture.

 

Asian Antique Furnishings in the Olbrych Home

 

However, it doesn’t make it any less tempting to want to change things up abit and take any number of the beautiful pieces from our new shipments and give such a permanent home in our own home. Must say that with the warehouse moved from Maine to North Carolina it does deter this impulse somewhat. And so, I must remain satisfied with offering a wonderful selection of Chinese antiques to make available for you and YOUR home.

 

Delicate Artwork Adorning this Chinese Antique Sideboard

 

Happy to advise that we have a container en route and due to arrive mid July. Enjoy the sneak peak on a few items here and check out all at our FOTKI link. And, of course, our full inventory can be viewed by visiting our online retail store at www.antiquesbyzaar.com .

Traditional Chinese Antique Elmwood Altar Table, with carved Spandrels

 Ruth Olbrych
Twitter
Linkedin
www.antiquesbyzaar.com
Ruth@antiquesbyzaar.com

 

It ALL Counts! Brimfield Antique Show

 The Brimfield Antique Show, in Brimfield MA is right around the corner; July 14-19 to be exact. It is renowned in its size and scope of offerings with folks traveling from across the nation to buy and sell. If you are into antiques/finds, this is “the” place for you!

 

Brimfield Antique Show, Brimfield Mass.

Antiques by Zaar did do a stint showing at Brimfield, with our last show being in the Fall of 2004, and as recently as this past January, a customer came my way directly because of my time at Brimfield. Yes, a friend of hers had purchased something from me at the show, shared with her my business card (more than 2 years ago) and this winter she called and placed an order herself, after quietly following my website all these years.

 

I can’t help but be delighted when a customer relates to me how they not only came upon my website/collection, but what further incited them to take the plunge and purchase from me. For, at times it is with genuine surprise that something we did, or put out there, literally years ago, still has impact with our prospects. Not only magazines, but events, such as our time at Brimfield, what is 5 years ago now, have great “shelf life”, as is evident by this chronicled scenario.

 

Brimfield, Mass. customer shares photo of their Antiques by Zaar purchase in thier

 

Aside from this obvious benefit to our business I will always remember with fondness the opportunity to share with my kids the time that Antiques by Zaar was on the road, doing antique shows. They would help load/off load the truck, keep good company on the long drives and be good sports about working the shows in all kinds of weather.

 

All good and yes, it does ALL count!

Ruth Olbrych
www.antiquesbyzaar.com
ruth@antiquesbyzaar.com

 

Sun Shine in Maine !!

First Vistiors to the 15th Annual Garden Tour

Yesterday was the scheduled 15^th Annual Garden Tour for the Maine Music Society. Rain or shine this was the date. With a heavy rain filled month of rain you can imagine how fervent our prayers were to the patron Saint of sunshine. (Yes, one of our committee members Googled patron saints and voila there was Julie!)

 

 

 

Picturesque Floral Display in the Center of the Garden

 

And the sun would shine down on us on all fronts yesterday. Not only could it not have been a more beautiful day for the tour, which showcased a total of 7 gardens, but we would come out of it having raised monies, from tickets and raffle prizes equal to that of last year!

 

 

A Serene Setting in the Woods

 

Chinese Antique Red Lacquer Box donated for the Maine Music Society Garden Tour Raffle

Antiques by Zaar was only one in  a long list of local businesses that contributed raffle prizes to offer as part of the fundraising efforts.

 

 

 

 

Was thrilled that I was able to contribute this as well as assist in a small way with an event that brings so much joy to so many people, supporting a group I am proud to be part of, namely the Androscoggin Chorale of the Maine Music Society.

 

This is my 4^th year as a contributing alto in the chorale and I look forward to our next Season of making music and further fostering friendships along the way.

 

Yes, the sun is shining down on me!

(And again today as ALL of my children are home.)

Ruth Olbrych
www.antiquesbyzaar.com
ruth@antiquesbyzaar.com

 

Landing the Launch

Ruth and Kids Pre 5k Road Race

Although an avid jogger, and like to hike and bike (but haven’t done much of it in recent years) I would never call myself an “athlete”, and nor would my kids. And so, although I did indeed get up on water skis a couple of times pre kids (the last time being 24 years ago when trying to impress my then date, my now husband) I wasn’t what you would call well versed and comfortable as a skier. As such I’m not sure exactly what triggered in my mind that I would consider my hand at skiing earlier this week when we decided to spend the afternoon as a family on a boat cruising Sebago Lake.

 

 Maybe it was because my kids wouldn’t expect it and I wanted to impress them. Maybe it was because I wanted to know if I had the stuff to get up after so many years. Maybe it was because I knew how good it would feel if I actually managed the feat of launching myself up out of the water to enjoy the rewards of floating along. Maybe it was abit of all of the above.

 

Ruth Getting Ready to Fly

 

The water was choppy, it wasn’t really warm, and the attempts to getting “launched” were numerous. Conditions were less than ideal. I tried to pull from memory the tips I was given by my brother what was a lifetime ago. Tips up, knees bent, rope taught. Told myself not to over think it, told myself that I really could do it, just don’t give up. Told myself it would be so worth it all to remain determined and steadfast in this quest.

 

Ruth Actually Water Skiing and Having Fun

Not sure who was more surprised, my family, or myself, when I finally “landed the launch” and proceeded to actually ski, and long enough that my son decided to chronicle it by taking a video with my camera. (Did I even know I had this feature on my digital camera???) It was surreal. It was amazing, and with video on hand (click to watch Ruth water ski on YOU TUBE), I can revisit this feat as many times as I like, including comments from my very own “peanut gallery.”

 

 

 

 

Mark Having Fun Running the Boat

 Same “peanut gallery” is rooting for their Dad who recently “landed his launch”, much more than my little foray on the water, in securing a job outside the realm of our antique business, back to what was a 20 year stint in the world of shoes. It’s been awhile since this “shoe dog” has worked “corporate”, but I am fully confident that although a different experience from before, that it will come to him, and that it will be smooth sailing, not unlike what I was able to do on the lake earlier this week.

 

 

Ruth Olbrych
www.antiquesbyzaar.com
Ruth@antiquesbyzaar.com

 

Opportunity to Share My Story: High Point Market Authority Article & More

Ruth Olbrych, owner Antiques by Zaar

I was thrilled when asked if I would contribute as a guest columnist for the High Point Market Authority, and am including link HERE to the article that was published late last week.

Back in 2000 Antiques by Zaar served as a pioneer selling, solely on the internet, a line of Chinese Antique Furniture that my husband and I directly imported. I truly think that if we had really over thought the viability of selling something so personal (and “alive”) online that we would’ve never moved forward on it. I’m so glad we bit the bullet and simply plowed on forward.

I have and continue to find immense pleasure in the fact that I am able, through the transaction of selling/buying, broaden my world with the many fine people that find their way to my website and become part of my Antiques by Zaar family. It is our website that has served as the main portal to present and promote ourselves, and now, with the additional venues made available by way of “social networking”, I am given that many more opportunities to make myself known to that many more people. I am beyond excited. In fact I am jubilant.

Keeping it personal. The familiar logo is Ruth's name in Chinese.

I love to write. I love to connect. I love to share my story, my perspective, my self with anybody that cares to listen. I love to hear from people and learn their stories, their perspectives and their selves. I love to inspire, encourage and promote.

I love what I sell. And I love that what I sell is congruent with my approach to selling, in that it is personal, alive and real. And again, I love that I am able to spread the word and let the world know the viability of putting yourself out there, online, and bringing it to the “real” world, and making a life and a living in a way that offers latitude, freedom and pure joy.

Welcome to my world!

Ruth

www.antiquesbyzaar.com

 

Sweet Praises for Fine Line of Chinese Antiques in High Point, NC

Photo Shared by an Antiques by Zaar customer

Selling a line of fine Chinese antique furniture and having a long list of customers sing your praises is something that certainly makes my world go round. Please feel free to visit the  Testimonial section of my site and/or my Home Gallery, both locales having wonderful words and photos as provided by my dear customers. Having someone that carries the credentials to validate your collection is simply “icing on an already sweet cake.

To my delight I would have such a treat by way of Daphne Rosenzweig, of Rosenzweig Assoicates, and member of the International Society of Appraisers, who visited my warehouse August 2008 with her friend and colleague Carla Butler of Butler & Associates of Greensboro. Daphne had been following my site for some time and had been recommending me to her clients that inquired on my line. When visiting her friend in Greensboro she took it upon herself to arrange a first hand viewing of the collection she had seen online.

Vignette in the Antiques by Zaar warehouse

In her words. “It was a delight to visit your warehouse in High Point NC and view your excellent inventory of late Qing furniture….was impressed with the wide range of furniture, and its fine condition….your on-site manager was perfectly delightful, helpful and thorough… have always found your website an excellent resource…it is useful to find a company upon which one can rely for a straightforward and honest approach….”

Jeff Moore, the best of the best, as representative for AbyZaar.

My High Point warehouse is open by appointment throughout the calendar year and all day for High Point Design Center Events. As such we will be fully available August 6-7th for the 2 Day Sale/Poker Run/Networking Event.

Please feel free to contact me for further information. And for a sneak peak of our warehouse, please enjoy this video clip I made last Spring.

Ruth

ruth@antiquesbyzaar.com

www.antiquesbyzaar.com

 

HPDC: Aug 5-6 Poker Run = SALE + Fun

As member of the marketing committee for the High Point Design Center I have been blasting out the info on the upcoming Summer Event organized by my collegues.

 The Furniture Today  article, as well as additional details, have been posted on Twitter, Face Book, Linked In (17 Designer groups, of course including my Antiques by Zaar group), in my newsletter, and now via this Blog.

 The High Point Design Center, for those who aren’t familiar with us, is a group of distinctive showrooms in High Point, who make themselves available to the Trade community year round. Antiques by Zaar is proud to be a member of this group and promote this mission, of availability to our Trade clientele not only during Market, but also between Markets.

HPDC: Year Round To The Trade

Although I am unable to be present during what sounds like a lot of fun and a great opportunity for networking, I will be well represented by my sales associate/in house designer/warehouse manager, Jeff Moore. She will be available at our warehouse both days, Wednesday and Thursday August 5-6 respectively. She will also be attending the evening cocktail parties on my behalf. Tough duty eh?

One of the gorgeous pieces we just received last week.

 We have just received a new container of inventory and would love to show you first hand all the wonderful new additions to our offerings. For a sneak peak feel free to view this video that I took following Spring Market. Our website also showcases our inventory and happy to have you shop there as well. BUT, if in High Point next week, please make yourself known there and let us share with you our fine line of Chinese Antique Furniture first hand.

Ruth

ruth@antiquesbyzaar.com

www.antiquesbyzaar.com

 

Delicious Chinese Art Deco Desks

Attracting customers in our High Point showroom

I love our collection of Chinese art deco desks. Having such available has been a stand by for us for the past several years as they have remained a popular item to add a flavor of Asia to one’s home.

Dated to the late Ching Dynasty (early 1900’s) these darling consoles were originally used as dressing stands, and as such we also refer to them as “ladies desks”. They were typically either a natural wood tone or Chinese red in color, but we have taken to offering them in a array of brilliant colors, including shades of green, bone, yellow, cobalt blue and standard black.

They can serve a myriad of uses, from being set in an entry hall (great place to dispose of your keys!), as an accent piece where only a small niche is available, or as vanities/dressing stands per their original usage.

A delightful place to display Avery's DISNEY snowglobe collection.

My girls each have one in their bedrooms where they are added pop to the already vibrant setting in their rooms.

A colorful additon in a delightful alcove.

Due to the size of these they can be readily shipped using UPS/Fedex and I have shipped these across the continent.

Below, an adorable red piece that found a home in VT.

Art Deco desk to a customer in Charlotte, VT

“we are so pleased with the little red desk, so i snapped a photo of it and our “Guan yin room”, which you might appreciate! the color red is outrageous, just perfect.

thanks for all.”

JC

01/18/06

Charlotte, VT

For more testimonials/Home Gallery photos.

 We’re pleased to have these in stock in our High Point warehouse and you can see our availability by visiting the Desk section of our site.

Ruth

www.antiquesbyzaar.com

ruth@antiquesbyzaar.com

 

Classy, Classy: Chinese Antique Desks in Hamptons ShowHouse

Looking oh so pretty in the Dressing Room

Thrilled, absolutely thrilled that I determined to call Kat Burki today, to see if the pair of green art deco desks they purchased happened to be showcased in the Hampton’s Showhouse.

Not only was it an enthusiastic yes (all at Kat Burki seem to LOVE these darling desks) but I was also provided with photos AND a series of links of articles/blogs that related to the Showhouse and Kat’s contribution.

Sharing these links with you here.

New York Times:  Sang the praises of the Traditional Home  sponsored showhouse and enjoyed specifcially the infusion of antiques throughout, with special mention of the adorable green art deco additions in the dressing room. Note: Be sure to scroll down as they posted two entries on same day and one on the ShowHouse is 2nd on the page.

Design My Way Blog: A delightful blog by Mimi Betancourt giving a personal tour of the entire showhouse. A blog I definitely want to add to my follow list.

I Feel Pretty: Maria obviously adores Kat Burki’s offerings & think I will entice her to check us out as well!

The Phat Guru: On Kat Burki, designer extrodinaire and her contribution to the Showhouse.

The Curbed Hamptons:  A great overview on the property used for this Showhouse and pictoral essay included as well.

Designing the Hamptons:  A blog by the designers of Mabley Handler Interior Design. Couldn’t help but notice the lovely red Chinese desk used in the library by Carole Reed. (Yes, we do carry such desks.) Another blog to add to my must read mix.

Chinese red antique desk in Library Hall

AND, for the icing on the cake, Kelly, the Kat Burki blogging queen just did a blog on Antiques by Zaar.  Thank you so much!

Non matching pair are showcased with elegance and style. Wonderfully placed.

 

Please enjoy all the reads, and plan to visit the showhouse. I do.

Ruth

www.antiquesbyzaar.com

ruth@antiquesbyzaar.com

 

Withit: My Story, thus far.

 Withit, is the acronym for Women In The Home Industries Today, and is a group that I was first introduced to by Kathleen Holterman of French Heritage, last Spring.

 Kathleen and I share membership in the High Point Design Centre, and how I first connected with her; HPDC being a group I joined to further promote my business presence in High Point. As we chatted further about how I could further network in the area she suggested membership in Withit. I joined immediately and we talked about my doing a presentation to the NC group in the summer. Logistics would merit this to be postponed.

 Fast forward to Fall 08. Had just returned from the ASID Carolina’s conference in Raleigh Durham, where an inspiring talk by Jane Pollak, among other things, urged me in the direction of pursuing the venue of blogging for my business, and networking on sites like LinkedIn and Facebook. A new and daunting world but it seemed right and so I determined that one way or the other I would indeed engage in this new phenomenon called “social networking”.

Volunterring to promote HPDC@ ASID conference in Fall 08. A win on all fronts.

 LinkedIn. Ok, I’m inviting people in. Now what? Join groups that share your interests. Writing groups, entrepreneurial focus groups, women’s business groups, and eventually  Designer groups…my customers.

  Go figure Withit had a group on LinkedIn, monitored by none other than Leslie Carothers. Read discussions. Look for tips on how to engage. A post by Leslie, the “queen” of social networking, on Twitter stating “if you do nothing more than set up an account on Twitter for your business, do that. You MUST have a presence on Twitter!” Ok, I bite. Now what? Start following Leslie and others that she is in conversation with. Start connecting on Twitter with others I share group memberships with on LinkedIn, including Withit.

 Fast forward Spring 09. I am again attending the ASID Carolina’s conference, this time in Greenville, SC. Perusing over the table where name cards are laid out I recognize the name of someone I follow on twitter, namely Starr Miller. My online world and real world are merging, meeting someone in “real”. So cool. Starr is a delight to meet and I look to her tweets and now blogs with even more interest. (Come to find out that Starr is also a member of Withit. World is getting smaller and larger all at the same time.)

Reprsenting HPDC @ ASID conference in lovely Greenville, SC.

 It gets better. After the conference I determine to spend a few days in my warehouse working before heading back to Maine. Carol Gregg, of Red Egg (another HPDC member) hosts a lovely party on her porch, introducing me to a group of dynamic women, that are, I find out, are ALL Withit members, including Kim Wray of High Point Market Authority, and a founding member of Withit!

A Wonderful evening had by all at home of Carol Gregg.

  I am embraced by a warmness of female camaraderie, of women that have all forged their ways in their careers/lives and that are eager to welcome me to the fold. (L to right: Ellen Geffen of  Geffen Productions, Kim Wray of High Point Market Authority, Shannon Hamed of Scott Thomas, Chemmine Taylor-Smith of Elle Decor and Metropolitan Home, and,  yours truly of Antiques by Zaar and our hostess, Carol Gregg of Red Egg.)

I unfortunately was not able to attend the conference that has taken place in Charlotte this past week, but I wanted to take the time here to let my world know how pleased I am to be part of this group and that although I was not with you in person this week, that I was there in Spirit; ensured that the energy, fervor, and enthusiasm I KNOW that was there, will be so again next year, when I will be able to partake. In the meanwhile I will continue to enjoy what I garner from those from Withit which I follow on Twitter, follow blogs of fellow members, and connect on Facebook and Linkedin for those participating in those venues. And I will continue to look forward to meeting in “real” more of these wonderful Spirits.

Ruth

www.antiquesbyzaar.com

ruth@antiquesbyzaar.com

 

A Treat to Share: Chinese Antique Sideboard/Happy Customer in CA

My customers are so good to me!

It is only because of their generosity in sharing photos of their Antiques by Zaar purchases that I am able to boast of a wonderful Home Gallery section on my website. As such I was thrilled to receive the below message and accompanying photos, earlier this month, in my email.

Chinese antique sideboard elegantly placed in Bakersville, CA.

“Finally getting around to sending you a photo of our Hebei sideboard purchased in ’04.  We absolutely love the look in our dining space.  We continue to regularly search your site for the perfect “console sized” table or cabinet for our entry.  I have faith it will pop up eventually!”  8/6/09

 They say a picture speaks a thousand words. For me, a picture from a customer that purchased from me no less than 5 years ago, where communication has continued in the form of my monthly newsletters, speaks mere Volumes.

 I am touched, and looking forward to adding this to my Home Gallery Section.

Note: There may be a delay in such updates as my website manager is now working off site, but he will get to it…I promise.

 Shipping something as personal as an antique to someone across the country can be daunting to both buyer and seller, particularly when the entire transaction is done online and via the phone. In the early days of my business I would worry when I didn’t hear from a customer, but came to the place where “no news was good news”.  Lucky for me I have plenty of newsworthy notes as posted in the Testimonial Section of my website. These, such as the Howard’s note below, are unsolicited emails receieved after delivery of their purchase.

Ruth,
The Hebei sideboard has arrived and it’s lovely! What an incredible fit with the rest of our pieces. We truly couldn’t be more pleased. Thank you so much for the nice mix of professional/personal service.

We look forward to doing business again soon. 02/28/04

 And here, the Howards have reminded of the very real gift I have by way of customers sharing with me the good news of their satisfaction with their purchase. And the icing on my cake is in the sentiments being expressed afresh long after said purchase has been made.

 Yes, Happy Customers Do Make My World Go Around!

A lovely pair of red decorated chests placed side by side add a further infusion of Asian to this CA home.

 

 Ruth

www.antiquesbyzaar.com

ruth@antiquesbyzaar.com

 P.S. To check out what we currently have in stock for sideboards, click here.

 

Blog: What the heck is a blog?

Ruth Olbrych/Antiques by Zaar, one and the same.

Wanted to do a small series on various social media venues as so much is taken for granted, by way of definition, and not understood, by way of value. Why not start with blogs?

Yes, there is plenty of information out there on this already, possibly too much, so why should you read what I’m writing? Well, I feel I have a perspective as someone relatively new to this scene, that may be able to help other “newbie’s” along the way. I present this as a business owner, engaging in social media as a venue to promote my business. It is my hope that I can, by example, and by sharing my experiences, further you along in this quest, should such be of interest to you.

It is indeed a whole new world out there and can be daunting at best, and wasn’t so long ago that I was pondering this very same question. What is a blog? And furthermore why should I engage in this thing called “blogging”, less that I am hearing over and over again that I must? It was in an Entrepreneurial magazine that I read almost 2 years ago that I first even heard of the term, suggesting the value of such for one’s business. It would be a year later, at a conference listening to a presentation by Jane Pollak, where I’d be prodded further to engage, and finally November 25, 2008, I bit the bullet and posted my first blog…which viewing  now I see is missing just a few things.    Hearing Tobi Fairley speak in  Feb 09 further spurred me on and I’ve never looked back (And yes, I did blog about this.  Read here  if you like.) I feel I have come a long ways since my early monthly (ouch, not enough) postings, in that I understand such enough that I feel I have something to offer fellow “wonderers” about this blogging thing. It is indeed a process. So, here goes.

A common term used in describing a blog (contraction for term “weblog”) is “online diary”.  It is considered to be a website, that serves as a place for the contributor (blogger) to post information, photos, videos, links and such, regarding, well, just about anything they want. It is an interactive place where readers are encouraged to leave comments.

A blog is not a newsletter but both have their place in your communications, should you be considering a blog for your business, as opposed as it being purely personal. (If it’s for personal use only, knock yourself out and get that online diary going, like does of Content in a Cottage. A must follow! She’s inspirational.)  A  newsletter is the venue where one does more direct “selling” to ones’ customer base, whereas in a blog, the “selling” part is expected to be more subtle.  It is more to be a place of offering information, making yourself known and available. Also, although it is appropriate to post a newsletter no more than twice/month, a blog should be posted more frequently. Once/week is a minimum, three times/week ideal….at least for myself.

 Over the months I have truly come to see that it is all up to you as to what you want to blog/write about. My personal interest in reading others blogs  is in following folks like myself that are working small businesses, folks that are supporting said small business owners (yes, including media and social marketing folks), and those that would include a  target audience of mine, namely being Interior Designers/Decorators. By reading these blogs I am determining what appeals to me in other blogs and helps me to fine tune my own presentation. For one, I like them to be not a long read (generally one page of text max), and so in keeping with such a standard (although a tad too long here)  I will close this post with next in this series to delve into why blogging is perfect for me.

Look forward to your comments/questions.

Ruth

www.antiquesbyzaar.com

ruth@antiquesbyzaar.com

 

Antiques by Zaar/Shine A Light

Shine A Light: Support MY Small Business Today!

“Have confidence that if you have done a little thing well, you can do a bigger thing well too” A day of tackling that “bigger” thing!

 That was my posting Thursday morning on Twitter/Facebook as I went about the process of engaging in applying to participate in the Shine A Light campaign today.

 As of today more than 700 small businesses have been nominated by either the business owners themselves, or by someone that feels strongly about letting the whole world know of a particular business that does just that, shine.  As of Thursday I joined this impressive lot of folks by adding my own application to the mix.

 Same day, (and with no relevant conversation about my campaigning for myself as an “inspiring” business) I was told by a customer that I was indeed, just that “inspiring”. Felt like the affirmation I needed was simply put there before me, right then and there as I had just submitted my story.

 If you haven’t heard of this campaign you must visit the website for Shine A Light, sponsored by American Express and NBC.

 And if you haven’t already endorsed a business, may I invite you to endorse Antiques by Zaar. In order to make it to the judging phase I need a minimum of 50 endorsements by September 13th. In order to be more highly visible on the page of nominees I need a couple of hundred.

 Click here to link to see  my story as posted on the Shine A Light website.

NOTE: You do need to register to vote. A quick and easy process. Just note that when copying the security code to process your registration that there are no spaces between the characters. Just copy the characters as shown. No dashes, lines or spaces. With that bit of info you will move through process smoothly.

 May I thank you in advance for your support and help in my continuing on in my mission to let the Antiques by Zaar light Shine brightly.

 Ruth

www.antiquesbyzaar.com

ruth@antiquesbyzaar.com

 

Chinese Altar/Tibetan Chest in Maui

Chinese antique altar well placed in Maui

Traditional Chinese altar tables have been a mainstay of our business. The traditional everted ends,(in place so that the scrolls would not fall off the table) carved spandrels (here in cloud motif) and more often than not, carving betwixt the legs, all combining to bring a lovely infusion of Asian to any decorating scheme. As shown here there is a heavy Asian influence but oft the case is such that it is more of an accent to a modern or even European themed scheme.

Tibetan Chest fills the corner perfectly

This Tibetan Book Cabinet serves to fit this space well, and although harder to come by, we are pleased to have secured a couple of such pieces and have in the Tibetan section of our website.

Again I am pleased to receive above photos  from a content customer. Thank you Linda Hostetler of Oxspring-Hostetler Interiors, for passing these on so I can share with you here…and also for the Shine A Light endorsement.

Ruth

www.antiquesbyzaar.com

ruth@antiquesbyzaar.com

 

Road Trip Report/Plug for The Shack

Ruth and her new wheels.

The end of the summer ended with the tradtional “bang”, which means hitting the road for yours truly, mostly focused around getting my kids back to school, but also including some time visiting family.  As crazed as it was to do it in the fell swoop of a week I preferred that over dragging it out. So, within a weeks time I went to Montreal and back, London (Ontario) with detour in New York (both ways), and back again, ending up in Maine.  2,500 miles in 7 days. I’d say my new little Kia is broken in.

My family travels with me always. Zach, Ari, Avery, Mark, Ruth Olbrych...Zaamro

 My kids in the car are good company and serve well monitoring the GPS and having some good unobstructed talk time. But once kids are deposited I find myself alone in the car, which is more the case than not, with my many trips back and forth from Maine to NC.  I have found ways to make that travel time count.  Phone and charger are a given, and recorder to make notes (or audio journal entries as I like to call them) to myself and a book on CD. When you get a good book the time truly does fly.

A Must Read

My husband had recommended The Shack but each time I went to the library to loan it for my next trip I was to be disappointed that it was already out. Thus, when I received in the mail (the day before I hit the road most recently), as a “happy new car” gift from my dear sales associate and friend, Jeff Moore, my very own copy of The Shack, I was elated.

Without giving it away but with the hope of enticing you to read what is a heart rendoring, thought provoking piece of fiction from a self avowed “accidental author” (the story behind the story is just as good), I suggest you read this with an open mind (you’ll see, once you get to the end, that it does more than make sense and is such a clever way of presenting what so many of us see/experience so individually)  and an open heart and let it touch and lift you as it did me.

I have another long trip planned for October. Anybody have a good “read” to recommend for me to listen to, I’m all ears.

Hope all have settled into what is a new Season with kids back to school, and all that that means for you.

Ruth

P.S. Last day to endorse me for Shine A Light campaign. I only need 7 more endorsements (before days end) to make it so that I can go on to next level of being qualified for judging phase. Your endorsement would be so greatly appreciated. NOTE: You must register  first prior to endorsing/v0ting. The exposure this would mean for my business is worth as much as the 100k the winner of this campaign for “the inspiring small business” garners. So close to that 50 I can taste it. EVERY vote does indeed count and I need yours!

 

Road Trip Report: Hampton’s Showhouse

Ruth checking out the dressing room herself.

 In addition to the duties of getting my kids settled back into their respective institutes of higher learning; Avery for 2nd year at McGill in Montreal,  and Arianna for her 3rd year at the University of Western Ontario in London Ontario. (Son spent summer in Montreal so was already “situated”), and helping set up my husband’s apartment in NY, I wanted to sneak in a small side trip to visit the Hampton’s Showhouse.  Aside from the obvious benefit from seeing the work of a wide range of designers showcased, I had particular interest in seeing the Antiques by Zaar contribution in the dressing room as designed by Kat Burki.

And, the icing on my cake was sharing this experience with my daughter, who, after visiting the mansion determined that although she liked living in large spaces that she didn’t think she needed something quite as expansive as the lovely house we had just toured. Yes, a great little sidetrip.

Ari dutifully posing for her mother in front of the Showhouse

For other blogs, articles and photos on the showhouse please visit this previous blog posting.

Ruth

www.antiquesbyzaar.com

ruth@antiquesbyzaar.com

 

My Introduction to NEWBO

New England Women Business Owners

Following along Jane Pollak’s blog as I do, I was introduced to the New England Women Business Owners, or NEWBO, an organization which awarded Jane their Woman of Distinction Award for 2009 and which she (of course) blogged about.

 

Jane Pollak, a woman with a mission.

NOTE: I first met Jane at the ASID Carolina’s Conference in Raleigh Durham what is a year ago now (I was there on behalf of the High Point Design Center) , and from the short insight I have garnered into what she has done and continues to do to “lead remarkable women to uncommon success”, well, it is nothing short of phenomenal. She was most worthy of the award bestowed upon her.

 With my warehouse based in High Point NC, the bulk of my networking efforts are focused in that area. However, I am still currently residing in Maine, and thus thought why not plug on along here as well.

 Of course the NEWBO event I chose to attend for my introduction had to be a 7:30 breakfast in Waltham, MA, a mere 2.5 hour drive south from my home. With CD book in place (See below for plug on this read) I was in good stead and off I went.

Karen Macumber

The room was bustling as about 40 women grabbed coffee and pastries prior to the presentation, as given byKaren Macumber, entrepreneur extraordinaire, expounding on what she has garnered, with talk titled “From Start-Up to Position for Acquisition: Marketing tips”. All enjoyed what she had to offer, myself included.

And of course, I also enjoyed getting to know NEWBO members, Heather Onstott of Launch Capital, Shelley Hall of Catalytic Managementand Linda Varone of Nurturing Spaces. Linda in turn introduced me to Christine Wojnar of Feng Shui and Space Clearing.

 

Linda Varone of Nurturing Spaces

There is always someone at these events that you “click” with and such was the case with Linda and I. (I do believe we could’ve gone on for lunch if we didn’t both have prior engagements following.) I shared with her what I am doing/learning in the social networking world and she gave me hints on how to further my presence in the world of public speaking, that which I am launching (actually, more so re launching after a long hiatus and with new topic) into, co presenting at the ASID Carolina’s conference early October…on what else? Social networking from perspective of online business owner buying into it and why you should too.

 So thrilled I made the effort to attend the breakfast and start this connection with this wonderful group of women. I am never disappointed when in a room full of women entrepreneurs and this was no exception. In fact this event was a small part of what was a phenomenal week of further colluding with fellow female entrepreneurs…but that is for another post or two…to follow.

 Ruth

P.S. The book of choice for this road trip and hot to plug is none other than Mitch Albom’s Tuesdays With Morrie. Enjoyed every bit of it.

Add this to the other great road trip read, The Shack.

 

Tribute to our family pets Rock and Jewel

” Dogs are not our whole life, but they make our lives whole”

Rock, Jewel and Lucky, my dear dear running buds.

This past week I, on behalf of the family, said good bye to our dear dear Rock…family pet for the past 12 years. He joins Jewel (his mate and our pet of 9 years) who we lost earlier this year.

They say a picture is worth a thousand words. Please enjoy this slideshow tribute as prepared by our son Zachary which speaks volumes of what these dogs meant to us. As you can see they were an integral part of our lives.

As Zach so aptly put at beginning of the show….”a house is not a home without a dog”. We are grateful for the contribution of Rock and Jewel to each of the lives of the 5 of us. Diamond and Lucky, thier off spring, live on with us, as reminders of the joy given by their parents.

Ruth

P.S. For more on Rock and Jewel feel free to visit our website www.peacockhillfarm.com , which was the site we set up for our dog breeding business, which we closed this past year.

 

ASID Carolina’s Conference: AbyZaar Presents Social Media & You

It is with great pleasure that I share with you that I will be co presenting a seminar on social networking, this Friday in Wilmington, NC, at the ASID Carolina’s Chapter conference.

ASID Conference: My 3rd conference, as rep of HPDC.

I will be offering what has been my path towards engaging in social media and how it was such a natural extension of my online based business. A business  which is now in its 10th year since incorporation, and which was premised on a very personal approach…namely in the presentation of who is Antiques by Zaar, not just what we have to offer, as put forth in our About Us  section and furthered by our online newsletter  which we started in 2004.

Following my presentation, Neville  Devlaliwalla of  Cisco Systems  will cover the evolution of the internet and the different social media resources and some examples of how other corporations have used them successfully and poorly and where all this is going.

For a complete review of activities/presentations being offered this weekend, click here. The conference is open to all like minded professionals that may have an interest in any of the topics presented. A great place to network as well, with the close to 100 designers that have already registered for this event.

Look forward to sharing with all and also meeting and greeting as representative of the High Point Design Center.

Ruth

P.S. The article I wrote on Social Networking for the High Point Market Authority is showcased as featured article on thier home page. Check it out if you haven’t already.

www.antiquesbyzaar.com

ruth@antiquesbyzaar.com

 

High Point Furniture Market: Ready, Set, Go

It has been so incredibly busy since my end of Sept (my most recent…ouch) posting where I announced my trip to NC for the ASID conference.  Not blogging but have been writing up a storm, (newsletters/press release) and putting on the miles.

Social Media and You: From my perspective.

Have very much I wanted to share with you about the ASID Carolinas’ conference but time has not availed itself for such. Happy to say that my Social Media presentation went off quite well and in fact have been asked to do same for another Design Association. Folks at ASID always happy to have the presence/support of the High Point Design Center at their Trade Shows.  My bonus is the opportunity to be in front of my target audience but also to get to know better my fellow HPDC members.

So, with that under my belt it was a few short (but highly productive) days back in Maine before hitting the road to wend my way to High Point, via Montreal and New York.  Yes, was very nice to visit my McGill students in Montreal (in the midst of exams) and my other daughter and husband in New York.  But now it is Showtime!

Jeff Moore, my in house designer, sales associate, but most importantly friend/Antiques by Zaar fan, and I have been

The Antiques by Zaar team...ready to recieve you!

working our tails off in the warehouse/showroom, as it will be the primary location  showcasing the Antiques by Zaar collection.  We are both pleased with how inviting and visually appealing we have been able to make it, and look forward to receiving customers there.

Aribesque: A new Trade Partner for Antiques by Zaar.

You will also find Antiques by Zaar product splashed about throughout High Point. Aribesque, at 110 S Main St, Red Egg, High St. Elizabeth Lucas , IHFC,  New River Artisan Hamilton Bldg, Feizy Carpet, Market Square, Scott Thomas, 200 Steele and Charleston Forge, English Rd.

Jeff will be manning the warehouse 8:00- 5:00 throughout Market and I will be in and out,  ensuring everybody knows of who we are and what we have to offer.

So, off to the task at hand and with the anticipation of a great week of meeting, greeting, sharing, showing and selling our wares.

 

Ruth

www.antiquesbyzaar.com

ruth@antiquesbyzaar.com

Cell: 207 838 2675

 

High Point Design Center: Elle Decor Booksigning/Post Mkt SALE!

Posing in one of the several vignettes in our showroom/warehouse

One thing about being the front person for your business on ALL fronts sometimes means that one front is deprived of your presence due to the need to be fully engaged in an alternate venue.

Such is the case for me being THE face AND voice of Antiques by Zaar. Working the furniture market is all-consuming and to date, has been the only thing that has gotten in the way of my blogging schedule. The frustrating part is that I have so very much I want to blog about!

So, without yet any further delay this post comes your way, with first install on some of what transpired at the Fall 09 High Point Furniture Market.

As the Post Market Sale for the members of the High Point Design Center is literally right around the corner (Wednesday November 4th), the nudging of this takes precedence and as such seems appropriate to include a recap on the Elle Decor/Margaret Russell book signing event that HPDC co-sponsored and which I volunteered to serve as a representative of our organization at said event.

 Click the book image to go directly to Amazon to get the book for bargain price of $29.00!

It all sort of evolved as I was chatting up with the folks standing in queue for their freshly purchased books to be autographed and before I knew it I was the in-house photographer for all those that didn’t have cameras. Photos will be posted on Facebook and eventually Flickr…and available for all those to check in and let me know their names; company and person. Add some exposure for you and also give Margaret (who has asked for these photos) an album of fans WITH names!

John of Dwell Home Furnishings was one of the fortunate that received a photo capturing the moment that night.

And that brings me to Part Two of this blog and that is reminding all that are interested in the post Market sale put on by the members of the High Point Design Center. Antiques by Zaar will be joining other exhibitors in extending deep discounts post Market to those that venture to our showroom next Wednesday November 4th!  Jeff Moore will be there on my behalf as I will be wending my way from Montreal to New York…visiting my kids/husband, celebrating my 49th birthday, which is next Friday.

Will not let my travels get in the way of my blogging and look forward to hearing from you with info to add to the photo gallery on Facebook.

Ruth

www.antiquesbyzaar.com

ruth@antiquesbyzaar.com

1 866 868 9227

cell: 207 838 2675

 

Remarkable Women in NYC

 choose life, choose positivity, choose the golden rule, choose to be at peace with yourself, choose salvation, choose to make a difference, choose to be different, choose to be a diva, choose to be funky, choose to be yourself, choose to create a fashion statement   www.viavegan.com

My gift from my sister...this and so much more.

This is the inscription on the inside of my matt and nat handbag…. a gift from my sister (thank you Linda), and, winner of being the “coolest bag” in my group of 4 at a networking event I attended at the 5th Ave Eileen Fisher store in NYC. As such I was given the floor to start with what it was in my business that “kept me up at night.”

…and what would that be?

November 2009 marks the 10th year since we incorporated Zaar Enterprises but November 2010 marks 10 years since my first online sale. The latter being THE anniversary I truly want to celebrate, this November serves as the beginning of the 12 month countdown that I have to sort out how I want to acknowledge what has been a phenomenal 10 years with my business. And so, this is what would be keeping me up at night. I want to know how best to launch into my 2nd decade of business.

As Jane Pollak, catalyst for why 30 women were gathered Wedensday night, with “facilitated” networking predicted, the 2 hour event did indeed fly (without the timer/bell she used to keep us on track, we would’ve easily been there all night!) by, AND I did indeed come away infused with fresh enthusiasm for my mission/my business, that which is an extension of myself.

Olga and I both felt that we were "meant to meet" and look forward to doing business together.

And I believe it safe to say the same to be true for all others that attended and participated. Thank you Jane for bringing us all together.  And glad I bit the bullet and determined to include myself as a “remarkable” woman….tag line being an “exceptional and inspirational woman”.  The truly exceptional quality that I found to be present in each and every participant was personableness and warmth which permeated the room as we sought to be an ear for each other.

Highlighting the remarkable women I conversed with….

Carol Casalino of carolcaslino nutrition.

Ruth Sheldon of Ruth K. Sheldon & Associates.

Valerie Cherneski of Cherneski Coaching.

Margaret Maclay of Focal Point.

Michelle Friedman of Michelle Friedman Professional Coaching Services.

Lindsey Pollak of Lindsey Pollak, gen y career & workplace expert.

Olga Adler of Olga Adler Interiors.

Robin Horton of Robin Horton Designs.

Ruth

www.antiquesbyzaar.com

ruth@antiquesbyzaar.com

P.S. En route from Montreal to New York, plugged in Jane’s CD which I purchased a year ago and enjoy pulling out on my road trips to refresh myself with her directives, as learned from her own experience as an evolving entrepeneur.

 

Interiors by Decorating Den: Cynthia Hernandez

“Ruth’s experience in Asian furniture is unmatched. The pieces I have purchased for clients have consistently been beautiful, functional and unique. Ruth is always happy to help with the “search” for a specific type of furniture piece or even a color match to fit my design. She is an excellent resource I will definitely call on again and again!” Cindy Hernandez, LinkedIn  November 2, 2008

Cindy's award winning room with Asian console from AbyZaar

I have for some time wanted to do a blog about Cynthia, and brag about our fostered relationship which started when she  first found Antiques by Zaar online in 2007.   The first sale in 2008 was uneventful (that’s a good thing)  as all went smoothly and by the email received following delivery, the client and designer were both happy.  So Cindy went about her very busy life as a designer and mother and I proceeded to add her to my email list, and thereby communicated with her regularly this way going forward. 

The next time we would “connect” would be through LinkedIn. I had just created my profile and Cindy not only found me (and invited me to connect) but she proceeded to offer the above noted recommendation. (Thank YOU!) 

The room above has really been a hit for my interior designer/friend…as not only was it one (of two) rooms she did where she was recognized and received an International Dream Room Award, but it was also featured in the November 2009  issue of Traditional Home. (I’m so pleased for her.) 

Cindy and Abby, the AbyZaar Poster Pup.

When I announced in my newsletter that I had just had a litter of puppies and several were still available, Cindy and I would further “connect” by way of  adding Abby (yes, named for AbyZaar, my little abbreviation for Antiques by Zaar) as their newest family member. Cindy now has the company poster pup! (If you’d like a peak of Abby and siblings in action, you’ll enjoy this video.)

Whatever Cindy does, she does whole heartedly and with passion. It’s no wonder that her column that she does for her local paper “The Valley Press” is a big hit, nor that she tirelessly supports the work of Autism Speaks…an organization close to her heart as she lives the life of a parent with an autistic child. And you get all of this, and her passion for design, color, and putting it all together for her clients as you read  her monthly enewsletter. 

Am thrilled to have the priviledge of doing business with Cindy and that, via Facebook, LinkedIn and all that, that we can stay as connected as we do…in between sales. 

You can find Cindy on our website in our Designer Directory as well. Be sure to check out her website. 

Most recent purchase for a client was this stunning red sideboard.

 Click here to visit our complete listing of sideboards. 

Console tables, similar to what Cindy used in her award winnning room, are available.

 Click here to visit our complete listing of console tables. 

www.antiquesbyzaar.com 

ruth@antiquesbyzaar.com 

 

So Very Thankful….

-think-dream-expand-aspire-live-

Spread your Wings and Fly!

The other day I was invited on Face book to join a group called “Spread your Wings and Fly”. It was a new group and since Tuesday evening it has grown to close to 100 members. With the mantra as noted above, and in tag line it is noted that the common thread to be serve as platform for this group would be none other than the Law of Attraction. No matter what your thoughts may be on the “Secret” where this was first put out there, you can’t deny the effect of putting out all those positive vibes AND expecting positive results. I’m all there.

Do I need to join yet another group? Heck no. But I went ahead and signed up anyways, and as such I am getting postings from the group manager, Marie Tucker. So, she puts out to each of us the challenge of sitting down and for a solid 5 minutes writing down all that you are thankful for. I bite. I do it and I have no problem scribbling away for the entire 5 minutes (put myself on a timer so as to not “cheat”) Below my list of what I am thankful for. It is by no means complete (which is really cool) but it is what is closest to my heart and put down to paper.

my FAMILY, GOOD HEALTH, my BUSINESS, the people I meet through my business, my HOME, OPPORTUNTIES, being able to see the silver lining on clouds/being a half full kind of person, my FRIENDS, with a special note to all my girlfriends/ANGELS, my CHOIR and enjoyment of singing/getting/giving  joy through this gift,my ability to express myself on paper, the INTERNET,the platform it has given for me to work my business, and furthermore, SOCIAL MEDIA as a means to  further “put myself out there”…esp blogging, my NEWSLETTER and how I can connect with my customers/prospects that way, my ability to learn a bunch of stuff I didn’t think I could (like formatting my writing to send out to you/online photosharing /making videos, etc), the suggestion of this exercise and the fact that I did it, all the SOULS out there that are coming into my life and how we can all be there to lift each other up and yes, my dear dear CUSTOMERS come FRIENDS  that keep me and my business/my life alive and full. And most importantly for the SERENITY I feel, when I acknowledge that I am indeed intent on doing everything I can to Live my Best Life and that, although it may not Happen the Way I might anticipate, that I have FAITH that being on the right track counts for alot.

Thank you Marie…for the invite, for the challenge and for bringing us all together to SHINE, SHINE, SHINE.

Ruth

www.antiquesbyzaar.com

ruth@antiquesbyzaar.com

 

 

Chinese Antique Galleria/Cheverly MD…& so much more.

Sandy Jenifer/Ruth Olbrych: Brought together through Antiques by Zaar

Believe it or not I have been stymied, and the sad result is that I have neglected this wonderful venue of communicating with “you” (yes, blogging), the very many things/people I have a burning desire to share….such as my dear friend Sandra Jenifer (featured here)…whose friendship was ignited in 2002 when she went “hunting” for Chinese antiques online and found Antiques by Zaar/me.

The crazy thing is that although I have been chomping at the bit to share “our story” with y’all, I have let my concern over the “presentation” get in the way of  putting this out there.  I  so wanted to do justice to what Sandy represents to me and to my business and yet was concerned over not enough emphasis on the product and too much on the persons. I was being conflicted about doing what I knew I wanted to do…share what has been the “icing on my cake” in putting myself out there with an online business.   It is a transaction that initially brings us together. In her case continued shopping (she has purchased no less than 16 pieces from me over the course of the years) triggers further communications, supplemented by my monthly newsletters which usually incites a personal hi back and forth.  It is in this way that we have continued on.

 An example of our friendship goes back to  when she gave  me a call asking “did you know you were in the current issue of Home In Style magazine? “…which I wasn’t aware of (was in the throes of preparing for Market)  and was so touched that she thought to bring to my attention this free publicity, which would serve me well to promote, and which I did.

Sandy truly has a way to put it all together. She should go into business as a Designer, wouldn't you say?

Yes, I have LONG been wanting to publicly acknowledge the very many customers that I have that are Antiques by Zaar collectors/friends and no better person to launch this campaign of gratitude than Sandy.  She has patiently been with me throughout this and readily contributes to my “cause”. To that end she wrote a testimonial for my Galleria of Collectors ,  a section on my site where I want to feature the many folks that have purchased multiple pieces from me…as there are many. Although still in infancy stages Sandy does indeed have a presence there, although the handful of  photos she sent me to include don’t give any indication to the scope of her home which is truly a Galleria.

So, I am pleased that it worked for  me to visit her last month on my drive back to Maine from North Carolina, and as such not only had opportunity to photograph  her  Asian “Galleria”  (please enjoy slideshow of photos here) but also sit with her to tape a video testimonial, which she had previously agreed to do for me. (Can also view photos of her home..not in slideshow format, by clicking here, if your preference.)

I hope you enjoy this window into her home and into what makes me so very grateful for this business, which has, and continues to, open up my life to so many great things and more importantly so many great people.

Ruth
P.S. Watch out. Now that I’ve gotten past the hurdle of how to present this (ie, just go with it Ruth) , there is so much more to follow. The floodgates are open!

ruth@antiquesbyzaar.com

www.antiquesbyzaar.com

 

Tracy Reese: Happy Antiques by Zaar Customer

Per my blog of yesterday I made mention of the fact that we were featured in the Home In Style Magazine in  2005…the one that Sandy made me aware of.  Of course there’s a small story behind that armoire getting from here (which was Maine) to there (NYC) in time for said photo shoot ….

Tracy posing for the Suede spread on her updated dwellings.

I had been on the phone with Tracy Reese (yes, of Juicy Couture and Plenty) that morning, discussing the purchase of the very armoire that was featured in the article. I was at the warehouse working with my shipper, who had just  loaded his truck and was on his way to Boston. They had all but left when she called to confirm, not only that she wanted the armoire but that she NEEDED it within the next week, in time for a professional photo shoot that was being slated for her newly decorated apartment.

 Quickly I got on the phone with my delivery service to let them know that it looked like I would be driving to Boston (and thus please hold that truck to NY)  to deliver this armoire so it could make the next truck to NY, which would indeed get there in the alloted time. “Chance” would have it that the truck (with my other orders) had broken down and was sitting on the side of the highway (about 40 minutes from my warehouse) waiting for service. And yes, that meant I had time to load that baby into my SUV and book it to meet the truck that would keep the delivery on schedule. Little did I know that by getting this piece on its way as I did that I would be able to look forward to exposure in not just one but two magazines, as she was also featured in Suede, as shown here on the left.

Don’t you love how great the red armoire looks against the red wall? And to think that she did the “match” from an online photo….talk about Bold. But that seems to be her persona and it seems to be working for her, per the amazing

Red on red...gotta say it does look great!

success of her clothing lines. Just look who is wearing Tracy Reese…none other than those wow singers Carrie Underwood and Taylor Swift.  And on another note, do check out the No Bull Blog, where Tracy’s raison d’etre is spotlighted…” When we lead with love, passion ensues and the outcome of our efforts is immeasurable. Man can put hard work into anything. However, hard work without love and passion will cause you to hit that glass ceiling you once heard about.”

….and back to my passion, providing you with a fine experience shopping for Chinese Antiques.

Yes, we do have more armoires, and a whole lot more on our website. Join the many that have jumped in and shopped online Antiques by Zaar. Our inhouse inventory can be found on our website and to get a peak (and yes, we are taking deposits) on some pieces we have purchased and will be shipping out of China in January, please click here.

Ruth

www.antiquesbyzaar.com

ruth@antiquesbyzaar.com

toll free: 1 866 868 9227

cell 207 838 2675

 

My Christmas Joy/My Christmas Concerts

“Music is well said to be the speech of Angels”

Thomas Caryle

Theme for Christmas 09 was a Heritage Christmas.

John Corrie, our fearless leader, inviting the audience to join in the carol sing...The BEST way to end a Christmas Concert.

We, yes we, the Androscoggin chorale,  just finished a weekend of singing, singing and more singing and it only got better as each performance passed. This year was no exception to the past 4.   During the carol sing, where the audience joins us…I find myself welling up, just as I did 10 years ago, during a similar concert that we took our family to during our first Christmas in Maine.

I had enjoyed choral singing as a high school and college student but following had only had brief opportunities ( 3 kids, moving around the world, starting/running a business kind of kept me otherwise “occupied”) to participate in what was my “team sport” .  Only when I heard that choir open up that first time 10 years ago, did I realize how much I had missed simply HEARING the grandeur of a chorale group sharing with a captive audience. It caught me off guard and without warning I found myself in that  joyful puddle of tears as I allowed the music to enter my soul. A brief repreive would ensue, only to have flood gates open up again when the audience was invited to join in a series of Christmas carols to wrap up the event. I was a marshmallow…and apparantly still am.

It took me awhile before I would make the making of music  a priority to include in my life and, as I try to share the emotions that fill me following our last of 3 Christmas concerts, it is simply one of overwhelming gratitude, for the joy found in the giving of these concerts each Christmas.

 As one of my dear fellow altos (and friend) said to me as I was recovering most recently….something to the effect of such being a Blessing to the effected person. I liked that, and truly felt it fitted, for it is not sadness that is enveloping me, but rather an overwhelming sensation of the Greatness of God being felt and shared amongst many. Does it get any more Joyful than that?

 May your Christmas be infused with the Blessing of Music and may it touch your Soul as it has Mine.

Ruth

Androscoggin Chorale….
A wonderful group of talented musicians…people with busy lives that add to their busy ness by adding practising, fine tuning and performing musical delights a priortiy. Under the fine and caring direction of John Corrie we join as one and share the gift of music… a gift of giving that is in turn returned to us. Again, does it get any better than that?

P.S. The “icing on my cake” has been that for the past 3 years the group,  has converged on my home for our post concert Christmas party. Logistics would get in the way of that happening this year…maybe we’ll catch them after the Spring concert?

Merry, merry…

 

Substance and Style Book Giveaway

Margaret Russell with Tobi Fairley

As member of the High Point Design Center I made myself available at the book signing event our group co sponsored during High Point Market this past Fall. Sort of fell into the role of resident photogragher and throughout the evening enjoyed watching Margaret Russell, with grace and poise, autograph her newly published book Style and Substance.

And as I ventured to NYC shortly following Market and obtained a personalized copy of Margaret’s book I have available an autographed copy that I secured during her book signing.

Am offering this as a Christmas giveaway. Simply post a comment on this blog or send me an email to ruth@antiquesbyzaar.com with Style and Substance in the subject line and I’ll enter your name into a drawing which will take place December 23rd.

Winner will be announced here and in my Trade Bulliten.

Look forward to recieving contest entries for a lovely gift!

…and if you are not sure on taking your chances on winning, you can always go to Amazon and purchase. Just click the image below to take you directly to Amazon.

….you also might want to check out Mary Knackstedt’s The Interior Design Business Handbook as a “must have”.  Had the pleasure of meeting Mary during Market as well, and must say she’s a peach. Love to plug her book here. Again, click image below to take you directly to Amazon.

Ruth

www.antiquesbyzaar.com

ruth@antiquesbyzaar.com

 

Merry merry….

Photo taken of our yard after a freshly fallen snow truly is picture perfect.

Loving having my family all around me during this Holiday time. All 3 kids home from college (London, Ontario and Montreal Quebec) and husband in from Great Neck, NY…whacking out the dogs that are not used to quite so much hustle and bustle in our Maine home.

Hope you are likewise enjoying this time off from your daily schedules of what is sure to be busy and full lives….taking time to remember and enjoy what is important in life…our families and friends.

I have around me all that I wanted for Christmas!

Yes, Merry, merry….

Ruth

 

Style & Substance: One full month later…

Christmas Magic began 12/14 when Avery, my youngest took her & I to Wicked on Broadway for her Xmas Gift to me/us.

 It’s all abit of a blur, this past month…. but one FULL of warm fuzzies on the home front AND, thanks to YOU, the blogging front. Why, you might ask then, would, if you are able to increase your visibility and interest in your blog, promoting a book giveaway (evidenced by the response of just shy of 50 readers interested in participating in the giveaway) disappear for an entire month?

Simple answer. Family and Holidays….and not enough room for sharing this with my world as I have so been chomping at the bit to. And so here I am at the other end of it thrilled to be back and ready to keep a steady stream coming your way.

Annual Christmas Eve photo session in front of the tree....

  So, albeit a tad tardy, (drum roll please…) I did want you to know that there is indeed a winner. The autographed book is being posted to Richard McCusker, who responded to the blog that he saw on the Interiors  LinkedIn group discussion board. Richard is based out of Arkansas and is an Interior Architect/ Designer.  He too has a blog, called Custard By Design and you should check it out.

Although the book is being posted to Richard, I do feel that I am also a winner, for the wonderful response garnered from this giveaway…so, a huge thank you to you all who made yourself known.

 In watching the movie  Julie and Julia ( saw it over the Holiday) I could relate to her as a young blogger…writing, sharing and not knowing who she was reaching.  It is a strange thing we do…share our worlds, not fully sure who is indeed reading. But I do enjoy this venue and promise to keep it warm, fresh and offering assorted things, that which I have to offer on assorted levels of what is my colorful life.

Current lifestyle  does seem to be one of extremes at times, but being an owner/operator of my online business does give the latitude so I can be what I need to be for my family and also work my business….”balance” still being the challenge as well as keeping on top of “it” all.  So,yes, my goal for 2010 is to embrace the process of setting up structures and disciplining myself to follow them, so that I keep my rhythm going whether I am working from my home office in Maine, or whether I’m working out of my husband’s apartment in New York, or my daughter’s apartment in Montreal or in High Point working from my warehouse….or, as the case will be end of this month, while on a trip to Singapore to visit daughter there.

BELIEVE, BELIEVE, BELIEVE...so there in NYC...works for me!

And, staying CONNECTED on all levels  truly remains a priority.  So many people in my world, so many opportunities at my fingertips, so excited to pull it all together and make 2010 Rock!

…..and if I can do it with “Style and Substance”, all the better.  (C0uldn’t resist.)

So very much look forward to sharing with you and hearing from you this coming year.

Ruth

P.S. For the 45 plus that didn’t win the book, you can purchase on Amazon…click below to go directly there.

 

Haiti: A Letter/My Story

Haiti Cherie, 

January 12, 2010 You are once again garnering  the attention of the world. This time it is a natural disaster by way of a massive earthquake that has brought You, this tiny impoverished country in the Caribbean, to the forefront of all. 

The children...thier smiles, thier eyes, they reach right through you...

I was introduced to the plight of Your people at an impressionable age by my father, who, in the early ’60′s got involved with International Child Care, a group of caring people that worked to relieve the ravages of tuberculosis in Your country. I was 12 years old when I made my first trip to Your beautiful shores, and determined that I wanted to do something to “make a difference.” And this sense of mission would intensify and evolve as I grew in years. And so not a surprise that  I would work to spend a summer volunteering at Grace Children’s Hospital, as a college student. And following that positive experience I would be further enticed to return as soon as I graduated from college, to serve as a volunteer for a 2 year term that I would extend to 3. I truly felt I had been “groomed” for my role as “constituent services coördinator” for International Child Care, as I  served as their guide/cultural liason for the “mission tours” that were organized through various church groups throughout the states and Canada. It was with great passion that I would take on this role, hoping to make said constituents furthered warmed to the cause they were supporting and at same time dispelling myths that they had held about Your country/people. 

How many times did I visit the Citadelle in Cap Haitian, the Albert Schweitzer hospital, The Baptist Mission, Kenscoff Market, Boutilliers, Cite Soleil, Iron Market, Jacmel, Ibo Beach, Presidental Palace, just to name a few of the regular stops on our “tours”. And what great friends I would make with the many regulars/vendors that anticipated my visits with my entourages? And how I loved chatting up in Creole, maneuvering the roadways (and sometimes excuses for roads)  participating in the craziness behind the wheel, and simply enjoying a life, appreciating/respecting that I was merely a guest, learning every day something from You. 

And when I finished my 3 years I couldn’t let go of the impact You and Your people had on my life…still wanting to do ”something”. As much as I thought my work through International Child Care would continue stateside, such would not be the case. But another opportunity would avail itself with the support of my fiancé, (my now husband of 23 years) that I did indeed meet in Haiti, by way of bringing  the fine works of Your artisans to an outside market. 

Tree of Life, made from recycled oil drum, was very popular.

How wonderful to work with so many of Your gifted artisans, buying a selection of what I thought I could sell on Your behalf. It was with self-same great passion that I created and worked Kado D’Haiti (gifts from Haiti)….buying sisal handbags, paper mache crafts, bead necklaces, banana bark greeting cards, hand painted iron work, carved ducks, wooden apples, and a range of vibrantly painted boxes, trays, and other “knick knacks”. 

1986, after 5 years living on Your island, and following a dramatic time with the effects of the Revolution just in their infancy stages, my husband and pregnant self moved from Haiti….first to Boston MA and then to Cambridge Ont (yes, all in the course of our first year of marriage) carrying along my small inventory of crafts that I was determined to sell….somehow. 

…and I did. Yes, I did. First at craft shows in New England (for the short time we were there) and then in Ontario, hosting home parties, setting up shop at the St Jacobs Farmers Market, knocking on doors of stores and then growing the business through exposure garnered as exhibitors at the Toronto Home and Gift Show. For 5 years I would lovingly work this business as my family grew from 3 to 5. The joy I received from knowing that I was able to support those people that I had come to love and respect outweighed the fatigue I felt as my days melted away with 3 pre schoolers underfoot. 

The 1991 move of our family from Canada to Asia would require me to pass on my little business to the hands of others.  I truly felt I was leaving a part of myself behind as we boarded a plane to Thailand, but was thrilled that my younger sister would take on Kado D’Haiti, and carried it until a struggle with cancer would require her strength and attention. 

Need for more rooms had my folks lease a 2nd house to accomodate guests. A hole in the wall makes for easy access between the two houses.

My mother and father had followed their hearts to Haiti as well, and, at the age of 60, in 1984 would move  to act on this. (Yes, a little overlap with me living there…) My mother would support the work of my father, the development organization he established, that being FIDA, with the income earned from a guesthouse they started in Port-au-Prince for missionaries/relief workers that were looking for an inexpensive (but cozy) place to stay while in Your country. (Story here. )And my elder sister would take over the running of this organization as my father retired at the age of 80. 

She would carry on my parents work with the same passion and committment that fueled their pioneering efforts. And a hands on approach would find her making regular trips to Your shores. I have to believe that there was “something” more than chance that she landed on Your fair shores this past Tuesday, just before You were so rudely visited by an earthquake which doesn’t even have a name. We are most fortunate to have news that she and her daughter (who started working with her last year) are safe. Images that we see on TV they are experiencing first hand. I know this to be a life changing experience for them. Frankly, a mere visit to Your nation has done that for so many, as I witnessed  …living through this tragedy with Your people will be impactful beyond belief. 

And so again, You are available, fully available, to receive the aid of others. In fact, as the situation stands, You simply cannot do without. Your people have suffered immeasurably over the decades, with political oppression and subsequent violence, and with “the” mother of all earthquakes now bringing You to a new low. So there is this huge opportunity for us to come to Your aid…a people that have had so little for so long that now have even less….and we are coming Your way, from all corners of the earth. I hope it is enough. I hope that it makes a difference. I hope it counts. And I hope that by way of our outreach to You that that many more people can be touched, as have I, by the warm Spirit of Your people….a people that has a strength of Spirit and fortitude that is out of the grasp for many of us. You have much to teach and show us.

Help coming from all corners of the world to this ravaged nation.

Yes, I have known for a long time that  You would give to me more than I could ever give to You. And this feeling is brought to the fore once again…that the balance is off and I need to find a way to give back to You and Your people…again/more. And so with this letter, I am making a committment to do that.  I know that there are many out there that have a connection to Haiti. Let me know about your connection. If you have an organization you support, let me know and I will post on my site and in my blog. Spreading the good works of many in Haiti is my starting point…so, give me something to write about. And stories. I know there are stories of how lives have been touched by Your people and their indomitable Spirit and Faith. Let’s not let this fade. Let’s not let the plight of your people slip away from us…ok, from me. Yes, I am still learning from You and Your people. 

…. may I serve well as an ambassador on Your behalf. 

God Speed to all…. 

Ruth

 

Ark Antiques: Chinese Antiques/Friend in NJ

“Each friend represents a world in us, a world possibly not born until they arrive, and it is only by this meeting that  a new world is born”  Anais Nin

Yes, one of the absolute delights of my business are the many friends that I have made and continue to make as I make my way in this world through my business, Antiques by Zaar. 

Although I knew of Ark Antiques for the past several years I didn’t have the pleasure of meeting the owner, Susie Maley, until she ventured into my High Point Market Square showroom Fall 08.

In her home Susie blends Asian antiques with modern effortlessly.

Our initial connection was electric and I was convinced that we could do something for each other.  On the surface we had so much in commmon…running our own businesses, a passion for all things Asian, and a persona that, dare I say, tended to pull people in.  Thus not surprised that a scheduled stop to see her showroom  in NJ (en route back to Maine from the NC Market Fall 08) would seal the deal on what has become a wonderful friendship.

Our respective  businesses/lives have been the subject of dramatic changes for each of us and through this we continue to serve as support and resource for each other as able.  To that end I would like to point you in the direction of Ark Antiques, a business that has  served its time.  As such Susie is liquidating her wonderful inventory at greatly reduced prices and I am here sharing a link to her site where you can see what she still has AND the great deals at which she is selling them.

I can’t see Susie completley out of “the game” if you will, but rather taking a step back to re enter with a fresh start.  Not sure the what for her next gig will be but you can count on it making a splash and I’ll be sure to let you all know.

Now go and grab those deals!

Ruth

P.S. For more photos of how Susie has merged Asian in her home, click here.

 

Haiti:Responding…

I find it coming at me so often these days….images, places, words, stories, feeling……all that bring me back to the many impressionable visits and the 5 years living there as a fresh college graduate.

 I know that this is happening with the many others, as evidenced by an email I received yesterday morning with the subject line stating “Haiti is on my Heart”.

Thought maybe it was a response to my earlier blog, but no…it was from someone that knew me from another life, from Haiti, from back in 1985, from my final months serving as “cultural liason” to groups visiting Haiti. Marty has graciously agreed that I share this with you…

Hello Ruth,
My heart is so heavy as I continue to follow what has been happening  
in Haiti.  I stayed at the guest house in the summer of 1985 for  
about 3 1/2 weeks, it was an incredible experience; when I came, I  
brought with me three teachers and a high school student, we came to  
learn. 

Your Dad told me that Haiti would never leave me, and it  
hasn’t.  Your parents were wonderful to us, and we had a lot of fun  
with you.  The Haitian people touched my heart.  I just wanted you to  
know that I remember, and I have not forgotten.  I am contacting your  
sister, Betsy, to find out the best way to donate to the guest house/ 
FIDA.
I just wanted to touch base and send my love to you all,
Marty Romero Brickley

Marty reminding me of how I introduced her to FIDA  (well, I did the first bit by having them stay at the guesthouse….let my Dad take it from there ) has spurred me on to update my readers/followers/customers and friends on part of my life most haven’t known about…until now.  The time seems ripe.

My Parents: Founders of Wall's Guesthouse & FIDA

The time also seems ripe to introduce you to  FIDA, the organization my parents founded,  (and ICC, where I served as volunteer for 3 years) as two orgnaizations I have personally been involved with and acknowledge as serving well the people of Haiti….should you be looking for a place to direct your contributions.

I’ve been so touched by Marty’s reconnection with me after almost 25 years. It reminds me that you can never underestimate the impact you may have on someone and how that can take hold and serve in the future….as it does here for her to connect/contribute to Haiti via FIDA.

And so…..as noted in my most recent blog, my sister and niece were in Haiti when the earthquake hit. Click here  to see her letter to FIDA constituents that have been hungry for information on what happened, how everybody is and what they can do. Sharing here with my readers, because that is one thing I can do!

Ruth

P.S. I was indeed curious as to how Marty found me, for when I worked with her group I wasn’t yet Ruth Olbrych, (as she reminded me I was dating my now husband) …so, I asked. She said that she simply googled, Ruth Wall Haiti, and there I was at the top of the search, leading her to the About Us on our website where I recount my life (well, only from 1985 on…actually thinking of adding to that, for those that may be interested. I’m told it is interesting, even pre Haiti/Asia lives…thanks to my visionary parents.)

Peace…

 

Barbara Jacobs Color and Design

 

 

 

 

Barbara has used this chinosiere armoire to house her TV et al.

“It’s too bad there are only 3 attributes we can select from when making a recommendation - I’d heartily select ALL for Ruth.  My experience with her started when I was looking for a coffee table for my home, many years ago…. January 2001 to be exact. Since then I’ve had the pleasure of working with Ruth professionally and also living with the beautiful and unique pieces I’ve purchased from her over the years. I’ve also had great reports from  clients to whom I have suggested see Ruth about furnishings. Quality, Style, Service – in a nutshell.” November 3, 2008

 

Just over a year ago I set up my LinkedIn profile and who would not only find me there, but also contribute the above unsolicited recommendation?! Thank you so much Barbara!

Chinese reed mat coffee tables "do the trick" here.

Am so pleased to have Barbara Jacobs not only as advocate for Antiques by Zaar, but also as a friend.  Our friendship started as we went about the business of selling/buying some Asian pieces for her home, which entailed her travelling north to visit our Maine warehouse and following, my husband and I travelling south to deliver a coffee table she decided on.  It was furthered as I “bit” and joined IFDA New England, where she happened to be membership chair at the time. Little did she know that by doing so she would end up with a house guest as I worked to  attend the Boston based events, trekking the 2 plus hours from my Maine home…to join events such as the bus trip to the Kips Bay Showhouse, networking dinners (where my donations to the silent auction were always a hit!)  and more.

So, here and now I would like to introduce you to Barbara’s business.  Well,  actually her two businesses.

Her passion for color is stage front for all she does and is and thus the name of her parent company, Barbara Jacobs Color and Design is most àpropos. She has sequayed this passion to a business where she applies said passion to the designing of a very special line of hand-knotted Tibetan carpets.

She has recently revamped her website, where you can visit to check out Barbara Jacobs Color and Design and her carpet business, Silk Road Weaves.

You can also sign up for her enewsletter, where, word is, she has offered a New Year discount  for a color consult AND paint!

And, now she is also doing a blog. Go Barbara!

We actually managed to get together for lunch last Fall, first time we’d seen each other in a blue moon. But in the interim we keep tabs on each other on LinkedIn, Facebook and through our online missives. Feel free to join her in reading my Newsletter.  Yes, we are yet another example of a business relationship that started online and the following friendship continues to be fostered online. What a great gift in this venue of doing business/making friends!

If you are looking for someone to guide you through some color revamping in your home, you needn’t look further than to Barbara Jacobs.

Become a Barbara Jacobs, and/or Antiques by Zaar Facebook fan! We both welcome you.

Ruth

No matter the purpose, a red chinosiere armoire offers punch.

P.S. Although the trend has moved from housing TVs in armoires, we do carry a selection of such, should that be of interest to you. Click here to visit our armoire section.

Beautiful wood grain on this scroll coffee table

…and with new inventory arriving next week we have added a fresh infusion to our coffee table section…that and so much more. Click here to check out our coffee tables and here to see all the new goodies.

 

Sunshine in Singapore….

My tour guide/daugher Ari, in front of Singapore's own Merlion.

Just shy of 20 years ago we moved our family from Kitchener Ontario Canada to Bangkok Thailand. It was 1991 and although I had lived overseas before (Caribbean, more specifically Haiti) it was my first time travelling to Asia and was doing  so with husband and 3 children aged 4,2 and1.

Fast forward 19 years….5 years Bangkok, Thailand, 3 years Taichung Taiwan, 10 years New Gloucester, Maine…

Our then 2 year old is  now 20 and is a sophomore at the University of Western Ontario in London Ontario Canada. Through her school she is participating in an exchange program and as such is currently  living in Singapore, studying at the National Univeristy of Singapore. I have had the great pleasure of visiting her and have just returned from a 10 day trip. As much as I have pressing business related topics to blog about I simply can’t entertain such until putting out there a handful of reflections on my trip.

Although I had never previously been to Singapore I wasn’t really surprised for what I found in the city. With Ari as my tour guide we traversed the city using the very efficient (that which Singapore is very proud of) public transport system of buses/subways….combined with a vast amount of walking.  We visited the “cutural” meccas of Little India, Arab Street and of course China Town. We rode the impressive  Big Wheel (like a giant very slow moving ferris wheel)where we enjoyed a panoramic view of the city. We meandered through the public Botanic Gardens. We took in the opera La Boheme. We let fish nibble at our feet for a cleaning. We ducked into the famous Raffles Hotel. We had our fortune told…albeit unsolicted and we did a little bit of shopping.

Eating an "ice cream sandwich" from WALL'S ice-cream. (Wall, my maiden name/Ari's middle name.)

It was a given that we would join the Singaporians in their favorite pastime of eating and as such did our best to  sample a wide variety of food…from chile crab, to kaya fondue (bread dipped in banana custard) to assorted noodle/rice dishes, to ice cream sandwiches (yes, that would be ice cream between a slab of folded bread…similar to what we gave our kids as youngsters in Bangkok…did we know it a staple in Singapore? No.), to bubble tea, frequenting open air food courts commonly known as Hawkers Centers.  And then to satisfy Ari’s palette with some Western food we hit some familiar haunts like Swensons, Pizza Hut, Starbucks and of course Hard Rock Cafe.

The Hard Rock Cafe in Singapore would make it the 14th such establishment we had visited over the years, from 9 different countries. Has become abit of a “must do” in whatever place we are visiting and as such we’ve chalked up the following list (in no particular order) with our kids in the last 20 years….

Bangkok Thailand, Bali, New York, Hong Kong, San Francisco, Niagara Falls Canada, London, UK, Taipei Taiwan, Toronto Ontario Canada, Bahamas, Florida, Beijing China and now Singapore.

Enjoying nachos at HRC #14!

Discovering Singapore trailing behind (not quite sure if Ari had picked up the pace or I had slowed down?) Ari was a pure delight on so many levels. Seeing my daughter move so comfortably around her large campus and the much larger city was a joy to see. Seeing many  stores ( Carrefour, Isetan, Central) that were familiar to me from our past life and hustling around the never ending maze of packed malls, brought back a flood of memories from our 8 years in urban Asia. Just seemed at every corner I was reminded of something or other that was part of what seems a lifetime ago…but apparantly never quite leaves one. And in part why my 20 year doesn’t feel like a fish out of water as she slips into this Asian urban mecca.

From my 7:30 am landing on Saturday to the following Wednesday we toured, talked, walked and ate…and then we took a break and boarded a plane to Langkowi Malaysia….

For photos on the Singapore part of my trip click here.

 

Langkawi Malaysia: Paradise?!

….yes, after 4 days of traversing the great city of Singapore we made our way to the Budget Terminal to catch a flight to Langkawi Malaysia….duration and location for this portion of the trip chosen for proximity and cost…and why it was slated as a  4 day beach vacation. 

Our Seaview room...yes, the 2nd one.

Not going to lie…it took a bit to change gears. I swear I could FEEL them grinding down to a halt as I wrapped my head around the idea that  not only would I just be  able to check in with my business at the hotel computer 30 minutes at either end of each day but that the best part of each day  (note 4 whole days!) would be “hanging out”. Really??? 

Even though we enjoyed a sumptuous barbeque buffet on our first evening, our first impression of the resort was tainted by a pounding base permeating the walls of our bungalow as we tried to sleep…”music” which we assumed from the Seaside Cafe (which was close proximity to our bungalow). Really, we weren’t in a hostel or resort catering to college students. How were guests ok with this???? 

And so a request to change bungalows was granted and we were appeased. And the raucous music, we found out the next night, was not from the Seaside Cafe, where the “Pearls” performed nightly (and who we came to love), but from a source outside of the resort, and although we’d hear that pounding base ever so faintly from our new location, it didn’t deter us from a restful sleep. 

Perhaps the Eagle Rock Cafe was the source of the offending "music"?

Sun dutifully shone on us brightly each and every day. (And an overdose of such on the first day ensured that we chased shade more often than not. ) A ride up the mountain in a cable car and a visit to a night market/visit to “town” was the extent of our excurions…neither of which overly impressed us. 

Yes, we admittedly had been spoiled by our many past beach vacations, namely in Phuket and Hua Hin Thailand…the latter a favorite where we once booked a condo for a month to spend Christmas beachside….where night markets offered a plethora of food, clothing and knick knacks…not just the “sampling” we saw at the Langkawi night market. Our thoughts? How could they seriously bill this as a tourist destination? 

Feeling on "top of the world" in Langkawi!

But as the days passed and as we let ourselves slow down to that grinding halt and as we started to see with open eyes the absolute beauty in our natural surroundings and appreciate the attentiveness of the staff and the value we received for our absolutely more than adequate accommodations, we quite simply stopped judging and started truly taking in the Paradise Langkawi was. 

Tourist destination, no. Beach destination, yes. And yes, Paradise. And now OUR Paradise, as it was the place mother and daughter rested, relaxed,chatted and simply enjoyed. Langkawi didn’t change in 4 days…we did. We realized this and chuckled at ourselves for this very real example before us as to how attitude/perceptions color our world. And, we agreed that our world is more colorful for the gift of our  FOUR full days….that many days NEEDED to truly embrace the Paradise Langkawi indeed is for many…including now Arianna and Ruth Olbrych. 

For more photos on our time in Paradise/Langkawi, click here.

 

Bellascenda @ AbyZaar Warehouse/Showroom

Thrilled to introduce you here to Trudy Simmons and her company Bellascenda. Due to the major rennovation project underway at the Suites at Market Square,  Bellascenda, an exhibitor there, needed to find a place to store their showroom contents following October 09  High Point Furniture Market.

What a great place to stow your TV!

Pleased that Jeff Moore, my sales associate, suggested I offer Trudy some space in my warehouse for such, and thus, have given up a corner for her to not only store but display her product.

Further, Trudy and her company are members of the High Point Design Center, so, if you as a designer, would be planning to attend any of our First Wednesday Events, or are planning to come to the luncheon/presentation that Antiques by Zaar is hosting during the HPDC sponsored Unity in Design Event, you have the opportunity to see a lovely collection of Bellascenda’s merchandise.  A sales associate will also be available to answer any and all questions you may have on this product, which serves to “lift flat screen tvs out of beautiful furniture.”

A few things to know about Bellascenda.

Another sleek looking home for your TV

For the past 6 years Bellascenda has been making thier furniture in the United States, with the bulk of it produced by the Amish in Pennsylvania. And like my Chinese Antiques, their product is green.

During Market you can find Bellascenda at the new and improved Suites at Market Square. Between Markets you can find them at 400 Mandustry St, High Point NC (by appointment) and 24/7 you can find them online at www.bellascenda.com and also (Trade only) at TODL.

Save the Date: Bellascenda and Antiques by Zaar are offering lunch and presentation, Friday February 19,2010

Where: Antiques by Zaar Warehouse, 400 Mandustry St, High POint NC.

What: Lunch and presentation by Ruth Olbrych and Terri Maurer.

Bonus: Book Giveaway of Terri’s newest publication, InteriorDesign in Practise, co authored with Katie Weeks.

AND….she will be available to autograph copies that will be available to purchase.

Going to be a wonderful time…be sure to register by clicking here.

Both Trudy and I look forward to hosting this event and Terri is eager to present herself and her new publication!

Ruth

P.S. Curious how Trudy and I met?  That would be through a Linked In! She needed a room during Market and I had advertised that my sales associate had one available. She took the room, we connect each Market and, on we go….a passion for our respective businesses and drive to see them thrive furthers our connection.

www.antiquesbyzaar.com

ruth@antiquesbyzaar.com

 

Unity in Design/Book Giveaway Follow Up

Terri Maurer co-presenting with yours truly @ a luncheon event hosted at the Antiques by Zaar warehouse.

 Although only/already a week and a few days following the end of the High Point Design Center’s Unity in Design Event and my own event at the Antiques by Zaar warehouse/showroom, I feel a tightness in my chest growing for being remiss in posting a more timely follow-up on both. “Timeliness” in posting blogs/photos is something I truly need to work on. Yes, I do get to it, but not snap snap as fast as “should” be.

Should you find yourself reading this you don’t need anymore expounding on this and so would like to get right into it by saying that the 3rd annual Unity in Design Event and 1st annual Trade Show (see photos Trade Show here) was a success on all fronts. Under the leadership of the event chair, Shannon Hamed, we all enjoyed opportunities for networking, to be educated and to provide lunches, and in some cases presentations, to our clientele.

The combined efforts of each of the co sponsors, members of the HPDC , trade show exhibitors,and of course the designers that attended, provided an opportunity that worked for ALL that were involved/attended.

Rita Reynolds, the winner of the book giveaway, with co author Terri Maurer...both ladies past ASID presidents!

Specifically, would like to say how pleased I was to host a luncheon/presentation at my warehouse/showroom. Emerywood Cafe provided us with a bountiful feast and we were warmed by hot cider and coffee. After giving some time to peruse my collection of antiques we relocated to a smaller (and warmer) room for Terri Maurer and I to do our tag team presentation on “relationships”….using the real life example of how we met (online in 2006 doing a transaction involving 2 lovely Chinese armoires), kept connected (via my online newsletter that I send to all of my customers following a purchase), and reconnected (on LinkedIn in 2009) and started “following” our respective musings online and from there enhanced our connection by joining together and meeting in person for the first time, just less than 2 weeks ago. (Click here for photos.)… joining together to serve each of us well, both professionally and personally. Yes, we agree, it was a “win,win”

Terri has her listeners enraptured.

Terri’s experience as past president of ASID National and expert skills of presenting on a topic relevant to everyone in business for themselves, made for an impactful presentation. I interjected with my own example of what and who were contributing to my High Point presence, just in my warehouse alone.

For starters, Bellascenda, a company that makes/sells lift TV consoles,already with a presence in our facility, will be joined by Kat Burki’s line of upholstered furniture and decorative pillows, the latter debuting in High Point during the  High Point Market, Spring 2010.  Discussions are in process with a couple of other lines of accessories to round out our joint presentation.

Similarly, Antiques by Zaar has a growing number of “trade partners” where a sampling of each others merchandise is used to accent in partner showrooms, along with literature available to direct potential customers in each other’s directions. Currently we have such a relationship with New River Artisans, Feizy, Red Egg and Aribesque….and yes, open for more of same.

It’s wonderful to see the opportunities that avail themselves as we seek to broaden our base and share our resources….and such boiling down to how effectively we work the relationships we establish.

Post Tomlinson-Erwin cocktail party and heading out for dinner. Lucky me, I was invited along. Great time. (Yes, it was that cold!)

I love being in High Point and the buzz that is in a room full of people that truly enjoy the very essence of what we are required to do to grow our businesses and ourselves, and that is let people know who we are and learn about them.  It fires me up and fuels me forward. So, yes, as Davetta Moore  did attest on a Facebook posting, the Unity in Design Event is not one to be missed and is timed well as a “warm up” to Spring Market.

In closing would like to acknowledge the organizations that worked as co sponsors in this event :

ASID, AIDP, IIDA,  IDS, NKBA, and HPDC…alphabet soup, all joined as the Design Professionals of North Carolina…yes, the DPNC.

The following showrooms either hosted lunches or parties:

Chelsea House, French Heritage, Samuelson, Scott Thomas, Swaim, Tomlinson-Erwin, Antiques by Zaar, Red Egg, T Botero Galleries, Feizy Carpet and Habersham.

Writing a blog regarding an event is fast becoming a ritual for me, a way for me to acknowledge it, from which I can then move on. Not dissimilar to the feeling I have after writing in my daily journal at the end of the day, for not until I have put it to paper am I quite ready to “let it go”, as once there, it lives on for me. And same here.

Ruth

P.S. Not to be remiss in announcing the winner of the book giveaway I promoted through my blog.  Lee Brotsker of LB Designs has had his “win” posted. Thanks to all that participated. More to follow.

 

Interior Design In Practise: Book Giveaway!

So excited to have another Book Giveaway…..

Terri Maurer and Katie Weeks have recently published a book specifically for Interior Designers….offering a selection of Successful Business Models.

Enter your name for a giveaway of an autographed copy by commenting on this blog or sending an email with Book Giveaway in the subject line to ruth@antiquesbyzaar.com or leave a comment on the discussion board you found this blog.

And…by the way….

The drawing for the book will be done Friday February 19th at the luncheon/presentation (Terri and I are co presenting a seminar on the Value of Relationship Building for your business….AND, how it can be done online!) at my High Point Warehouse, as part of the Unity in Design Event sponsored by the High Point Design Center.

If in the area and would like to attend, you can still register online by visiting the HPDC online registration here.

Very much look forward to hearing from you on the Giveaway and seeing all that can make it this Friday.

If you have any questions on any of above,  just give a shout.

In the meanwhile, hope your week is off to a bang up start.

Personally , drove 11 hours from NY to NC yesterday and ready to hit the snow smattered ground in NC running!

Ruth

ruth@antiquesbyzaar.com

www.antiquesbyzaar.com

 

Antiques by Zaar Blog: Life on the Ladder

Arianna, in Singapore...China Town specifically.

No, I’m not changing the name of my blog. Rather, I am pleased to introduce you to my daughter’s first posting of her blog, which she has titled Life on the Ladder.

Arianna, my middle child, and I had the pleasure of spending some great one on one time together this past month when I went to visit her in Singapore, where she is doing a semester abroad with her University. I did write a blog on the Singapore visit  (click here) and a 2nd one on our time at the beach in Langkawi Malaysia (click here).

What I didn’t mention in the latter blog was the spark that was ignited with my daughter as I discussed my “vision” for where I’d like to take Antiques by Zaar, the family business, in its 2nd decade. I was pleased for her enthusiastic support of how I would like to broaden my scope in years to come.

An "inspiring" view in Langkawi...

Well, one thing has led to another and said business student has jumped right on in, with both feet, and excitedly is putting the pedal to the metal, joining with me to keep the Antiques by Zaar name out there…as it continues to serve as a great source for Chinese Antiques, as well as offer a platform to show the value in collaborating, communicating, and connecting.

Yes, the economy has been a challenge, but as you’re sure to hear me say…”the economy serves as a great equalizer”…as we have ALL have had to adjust as to how we’ve done business if we remain interested in staying in business. We’ve all had to implement cost effective strategies and have had to exercise creativity more than ever before.

Whether you like it or not (and I LOVE IT!)  “social media’ and the trend to “build relationships” before doing the “sell”  is THE way to go and not to be ignored. Trend it may be, but truly how I have made my online business work, one sale at a time…starting from nothing but a thought that I could do this. 10 years later I’m here  to stay!

Aside from the fact that my company is named after my kids (ZAAR = Zach, Ari, Avery, and Ruth. Can read About Us on our site.) their past participation has been more of a latent nature….although I must credit Zachary for doing all of my graphic work for advertising, mailings and mangaing the editing of photos for my product. Avery is on board for data base and inventory management and Arianna is taking on managing my marketing. All of this is done remotely, with Ari still in Singapore for 3 more months and Zach and Avery in Montreal (McGill students)

So, welcome to Arianna’s blog. Click here for her first posting of my young lady  who is on her Ladder of Life.  You shall be hearing more from the both of us going forward.

Ruth

www.antiquesbyzaar.com

ruth@antiquesbyzaar.com

 

I Love/ I Am My Business!

The company logo reads Ruth Olbrych, appropriately so.

It was the trend amongst expat wives (this would be when living in Taiwan) to have custom pendants made with Chinese translations of our Western names, such as shown here.   I joined in and had one made for myself and also each of my children. At the time did I know that a few short years later I would be using this as the logo for an online based business  that I would own, importing and selling Chinese antiques? Heck no. But I did, and it is, and I’m so pleased. 

Truly, if someone told me back then (that would be about 1999 as we were moving stateside after 8 years in Asia) that this is what I’d be doing in 2010 (and with 10 years under my belt)  I would’ve laughed out loud. And now I can’t imagine doing anything but this. 

No, wasn’t a life long dream to have my own business or more specifically that it would be one so “out there” as setting up shop online to sell nothing other than Chinese Antique Furniture. 

But, it has indeed been a life long mission to want to be able to touch people…growing up with a strong sense instilled that a very real part of our mission on this earth is to reach out, to give of yourself, to be of service.  It was the part of my Mennonite heritage that has held with the greatest fervor. 

In my High Point warehouse...

So be it that the vehicle through which I’m able to do said “ reaching  out” is couched in the transaction of selling a piece of antique furniture (or more) to a customer and that said transaction would serve as the cornerstone for wonderful relationships following….customer is indeed synonomous with friend. So be it that this business of selling antiques would give my husband a 10 year hiatus from the corporate world, and support the family of 3 for which it is named after…yes, Zach, Ari and Avery, our 3 children. And so be it that it would serve as an extension of myself going forward…giving me something very real, very mine, as said children head off to college. And so be it that the online world of commerce would develop in a way to accommodate, support and provide multiple windows (in addition to my website) to draw people my way….case in point this blogging platform. 

I love my business.  I love the product I make available to my customers. (Admittedly scary at first, the fact that it is such a personal item to sell online, and that I’m here to offer such, well, it fits  me like a glove.) I love that I am able to have this following almost a decade in Asia as an (admittedly spoiled) expat wife. I love the flexibility I have so that I can be available to my family as need be. I love the  people who I have in my “corner” and can count on to help me make this business work. I love the people who I’ve come to know through this business, not just the customers but also those in the Home Furnishings Industry that I’ve come to know over my years, particularly in High Point NC, where we moved our warehouse 3 years ago. I love that there are so many windows of opportunity for me to reach out to people as I go about my business. And I love that so many people touch me as I go about my business. 

Yes, in all senses of the word, I , Ruth Olbrych, AM Antiques by Zaar. I Love my Business and I am my Business.  

Welcome to My World. 

Ruth 

P.S. Arianna, the first A of ZAAR, has just posted her 2nd blog, which you can view by clicking here. She titled it, ”What’s in a Name”, and although she is addressing the name of her blog, Life on the Ladder, it was her posting that inspired the nature of this one….and a wonderful lunch yesterday with a customer/friend that also IS her Business.  Thanks Ari and Jan.

 

Kat Burki/Antiques by Zaar Trade Partners

…and showing in High Point Market this Spring together!

Yes, it is official.

Kat Burki is on the ready to introduce thier newest line of upholstered furniture and styling pillows at High Point Furniture Market April 17-22.

Antiques by Zaar is excited to have them showcase these goods alongside our complementary collection of Chinese Antiques.

400 Mandustry St, High Point NC is the place to visit us both.

Saturday April 17th is official opening date for Market but we will be set up and ready to receive appointments Friday April 16th.

Contact Ruth either by email at ruth@antiquesbyzaar.com or by phone at 866 868 9227 for  Antiques by Zaar appointment.

check my goods out at www.antiquesbyzaar.com

Contact Lauren by email at laurenh@katburki.com or by phone at 203 256 5817.

…and check out Kat Burki at www.katburki.com

And yes, we will be open 8:00-5:00 throughout Market.

We look forward to meeting and greeting you in High Point next month!

Ruth

 

My House/Heart have been warmed…

…by the Souls of a group of wonderful women.

Beautiful gardens @ host of the orignal "Garden Party" Summer 09

The invite list was drawn from a summer Garden Party, that was initiated by my dear neighbor and her friend, and which I had been graciously invited to attend…, (and following offered to host the Christmas version of said party, which pretty much got snowed out ) and, as host for this particular party, I took the liberty of adding to the list from my own circle of friends.

some of you were “new” friends, that I had met from last summer’s  Garden Party…including 2 neighbors down my road that I had not yet met.

two of you were friends I met through my mother in law, and made the 90 minute drive together to attend the party.

one of you sings with me as a fellow alto in the Androscoggin Chorale…which has two concerts next weekend. Unfortuanately I won’t be singing, but look forward to attending….

Tinkerbelle, now Jasmine, has a real tough life...having to ride in the back seat!

one of you is connected by way of having purchased one of our puppies, when we had Peacock Hill Farm serve as our breeding business for Golden Retrievers.

a couple of you are friends from “way back” into the early years of moving to ME and a couple of you are friends made in more recent years.

and one of you I have befriended as a result of doing business  through Antiques by Zaar…and yes, does indeed have a finer collection of my pieces in her home (and Inn) than I do. (Check here to see how great my pieces look in her NH home)….and came all the way from Long Island!

We all were all….

interesting and interested.

happy for the opportunity to spend time with friends not seen in awhile and make new friends.

eager to stay in touch and ensure that it isn’t 8 months before the next “Garden Party”.

appreciative of each person that was there.

_____________________________________

I stopped the chatter long enough for all to introduce ourselves & find out how we ended up at said party....& the chatter cont'd followin!

I have ALWAYS loved hosting parties and I personally couldn’t be happier for how my house has truly been warmed by this my first (and by far from last) party for 2010.

I thank each and every one of you for taking the time out of your busy schedules to do something good for yourself and for which more than a handful of kindred Spirits  likewise benefitted.

I could gush on and on but prefer to share with you snippets from emails I’ve received since my St Pat’s Day Garden Party, at 301 Peacock Hill Rd, New Gloucester, ME….my home. (Have had some wonderful “thank you” phone calls as well....)

Thank you SOOOOOOOOOO much!

Wow- 

I needed the company of wonderful women ))

Thanks so much Ruth. It was so much fun last night and I wish I could have stayed all night.  Keep me on the email list!

Thanks for such a great party!  We had a great time and it was great meeting new people and seeing the ones we haven’t!

…for a great party.  It was super to meet all those wonderful women.  Your warmth as a hostess really set the tone for the whole affair.  See you again soon!

Fabulous home, friends, and hostess!  Thank you so much for bringing all of us together at your house for a great evening.  So much good food and so many interesting people. 

There aren’t the correct words within my vocabulary to properly thank you for inviting us to your home.  We just had the nicest time chatting on the trip up and back, and of course seeing you and all of the fantastic women that made it to your home last night.  It was just what the Dr. ordered.

thank you for a lovely evening with your lady friends.  Your home is so welcoming and your execution of space and design is outstanding.   Your welcoming Peggy and I into your group of lady friends means alot to us, and we could not be more appreciative.  And we hope to see you again very soon.

_____________________________

So, if you’ve been pondering a “girly girl” party, let me offer this by way of encouragement. Don’t dally…find a way to do it soon…you won’t regret it. It is a Gift that keeps on Giving….and is sooooo easy, for all you need is a venue and a list of women that you think would enjoy the company of others. No other pre equisite required. I guarantee a good time will be had by all!

P.S. …and yet another benefit was the post party connections that continue to be made as folks contact me for emails/phone numbers. Yes!

 

Family Connections For HAITI

The connection.

1985, my fiance, Mark and I, hosted his youngest brother as our guest in Haiti, that time one just following the Revolution where the dictator “Baby Doc” had recently been ousted.

FIDA, the organization my parents founded, the work which touched my brother in law Luke...and many others following

Part of our program would naturally include a visit to my parents, who were running a guest house that supported the work o FIDA, an agency my parents had founded in 1984 (read story here), building up an infrastructure in rural Haiti using the cooperative model.

Not quite sure on the timing that Luke returned to do a short volunteer stint in Haiti, with FIDA, but was not long following that initial impressionable  visit.  What is more relevant is that more than 2 decades later, the committment to the work of FIDA would be renewed in response to the January 2010 earthquake that shook that tiny impoverished company with yet another (not political this time) blow, and Luke would reach out.

and so… in Belgium, (where he’s been living the past decade plus)

on March 7, 2010….  

a fundraising event in his home would be had.

The host Luke and Marie Therese, the talented artist, friends working together for the cause, HAITI, through FIDA.

featuring his close friend… opera diva/soprano, Marie Terese  (who we had the absolute pleasure of meeting at Lukes on more than one occasion, including his 2008 wedding) who offered her talent towards the end of…

supporting the work of  FIDA….

where more than 40 guests would grace the home of Luke and Mircea on that spectacular night, with many more, unable to attend, nonetheless sending their support by way of cash donations towards the cause….each adding to the more than 20,000 raised!

a first hand account would be offered by  Gerlant van Berlaer,  (doctor and  member of B-FAST) , who had just returned from Haiti, offering a slide show presentation bringing the current situation ever closer.

 I like how I feel that I served as a  link.  The raison d’etre for why Luke even ever went to Haiti. And a part of why, 25 years later, in Belgium, he passionately responded to the most recent devastation struck

My sister Betsy, carries my parent's torch, as does her daughter Alexis.

upon this country… hosting a grand event to raise money…   (and awareness) for Canadian based FIDA…which his Belgium friends would not otherwise be acquainted with.

I am proud to  be flanked by these members of my family, from far off regions, working together towards such a worthy humanitarian cause….and I just wanted to share this with my world.

Yes, many have been touched by Haiti. This is just one story of one connection…many such connections continue to grow and flourish…each one counting and each one making a difference.

God Speed.

Ruth

If you would like to support the work of FIDA, click here to visit their website.

Other blogs I’ve written  on Haiti:

Haiti: A Letter/My Story

Haiti: Responding

 

Antiques by Zaar Welcomes Vanderveer Imports!

Can’t let another day go by before introducing you to my 3rd Trade Partner that will be showing with me next month at the High Point Furniture Market.

Vanderveer Imports: Bringing you fine Chinese porcelain and ceramic treasures.

Kathy and Kris Coupland, best friends since forever,  sister in laws for the past decade and now business  partners, are the life blood of this new venture which is fueled by their passion for travel and gift of an “eye” for special pieces that they excitedly want to make available to those that are looking for that touch of Asian by way of an accent piece.

And it would be these lovely hand selected accent pieces that I am sure will appeal to my customers of Chinese antique furniture. Although I do carry some antique stone statuary and food carriers and such, my own offerings of accent pieces is quite limited, and thus absolutely thrilled to offer this venue for Vanderveer to sell alongside Antiques by Zaar.

This is their High Point Market debut and we’re all excited about it.  Over 100 pieces will be placed throughout our showroom/warehouse and available as cash and carry items.

Be sure to preview thier collection by visiting their website, but moreso, if in High Point April 17-22, be sure to stop by and check out first hand.

400 Mandustry St is where you’ll find us, 8:00- 5:00 and following Market, by appointment.

Ruth

www.antiquesbyzaar.com

ruth@antiquesbyzaar.com

 

Raymond Waites Couture

Raymond Waites reputation as a “mover and shaker” in the Home Furnishings and Design industry reaches way beyond the scope of High Point, North Carolina and covers the scope of decades.  But High Point is the place he calls Home and where his generosity of Spirit effects those that have the privilege of being part of the wide circle of those he calls his friends.

And so it is with extreme pleasure that last year I was introduced to Raymond (after “hearing” about him for years) last year as we both exhibited pieces of our respective collections with Aribesque.

And so it is with even greater pleasure that I am here to announce that

Antiques by Zaar showcased in showroom window.

Raymond Waites Couture and Antiques by Zaar will be showing together this Market in the 200 N Hamilton Building, in showroom 100, in the South Court. The mix of traditonal and modern,  of using a myriad of mediums for expressive art, and the obvious artistic Spirit, will be available for all to experience at this most strategically placed showroom.

Yes, the folks at 200 N Hamilton are graciously hosting the following events in the courtyard, where the windows of the Waites/Zaar showroom serve as decorative backdrop/conversation starters (if such should be needed) during said events.

Raymond Waite in all his grandness, greets you...

Complimentary champagne breakfasts:  Saturday, Sunday AND  Monday mornings from 8:30-10:00

“Sunday Uptown”  Sunday 4:00-7:0o…so many treats here including wine, hor d’oeuveres, music and a painting demonstration by Raymond himself.

Similarly, you may want to head over to Market Square on Friday evening (yes, before official opening day of Market) to participate in the IFDA/House Beautiful sponsored event where the inauguaral Raymond Waite scholarship of 5,000 will be presented to the winning candidate.

And just as one more little FYI… Raymond Waites and Antiques by Zaar will also have their collections represented  in respective showrooms in the Michael Thomas Building at 1690 English Rd….a mere 1.5 miles from the Antiques by Zaar warehouse @ 400 Mandustry St,  where we also will be open throughout Market, and by appointment year round.

Do give me a shout or drop a line if you have any questions or have a specific time/location where you’d like to meet me…for I will be otherwise “floating” between all locations, which will be fully manned!

Ruth

www.antiquesbyzaar.com

ruth@antiquesbyzaar.com

 

I’m Back!

April 6th, my last blog. Ouch. Too long.

I have missed reaching out this way and look forward to sharing the many exciting things going on, with my business and with my family.

Bryant Park NY in Springtime....lovely.

Yes, from April 9- 29th I have been a road warrior…NY, High Point NC, back to NY, Montreal, and back to ME. Over 3,000 miles on my little KIA and 250 miles on a 10′ rental UHAUL. Yes, I do need to find a way to stay more present online while “out and about”.

High Point Market was the focus of my trip to North Carolina, couched in personal time with my family….catching up with my husband (@either end of High Point)  and moving  2 of my college kids back home, for at least part of the summer….concluding this 3 week stint on the road.

Emptied 2 college kid's apartments. One McGill grad and one going to Australia in July for semester abroad.

So, consider this my “I’m back” blog.

A lovely presentation of our collection at 1690 English. Spring 2010 Market.

Have posted photos from Spring Market 2010 on my facebook profile, and will be posting a newsletter recapping High Point “High Points” later this week.

Working to get my groove back, working from my home office, and similarly organizing my kids so that they know how they can help thier mother along with some time consuming tasks, to help keep the Antiques by Zaar’s face fresh.

And so, to that end, I should move forward in the direction of doing just that…solidifying the structure of expected work, so that it can indeed get it done…IE, I have work to do before I can give them work to do. 

I simply wanted to anchor my “landing” with this short missive.

Happy rest of the weekend to you all. It is indeed lovely here in Maine.

Ruth

 

My Happy Mother’s Day Thoughts

“Life is a flame that is always burning itself out, but it catches fire again every time a child is born” George Bernard Shaw

My husband and I are responsible for lighting three such ”flames”   and as I contemplated the arrival of Mothers Day I thought of how each of my 3 children have made such an indelible mark on my Heart and Soul, feeling no less than overwhelmed with how each of their lives have and continue to Touch me.

All are young adults (almost 23, 21 and almost 20) now, coming into their own at the speed of lightening. And being so very close in age it feels that our experience is one long drawn out “phase” as we move from one right to the other and right to the other. And although they all share some very basic characteristics I recently found myself contemplating each of their births/birthplace/order of birth  and how just that made each of them so unique from that moment on.

Yes, life has gone by in a “blink of an eye” it seems and the job of continually adjusting to how best to be there for my children..is, well…continual. Not as obvious as when they were younger, but no less important is how we work to launch our children to be their Best Selves.

Feeling the Love from ALL on Mother's Day

As such I feel that  my current “relevance” in thier lives , as thier mother, is greatly a matter of my being a positive role model, similarly serving as a sounding board ,offering perspective, support and encouragement as they each work towards figuring out what it is that is most important for them in each of their lives going foward. Not a bad place to be and enjoy seeing how each of them approaches their world so very differently….and yet the same. Yes, keeping me on my toes…as always.

____________________

As it would be, 2 of my 3 cherubs would be present for me to embrace and smooch up, this past Sunday…with the 3rd litearlly traversing the globe as she travelled back to the States after a spending the past 5 months studying in Singapore. (Look forward to seeing her tomorrow!)

Mother and daughter graced by the gift given.

Avery graced me with a scented candle and hanging plant…adding more light and life to our home, and Zach prepared a lovely cake for our Saturday night family dinner (thank you Mark)…appropriately themed, with Chinese symbol for Mother centre stage of this simple yet lovely work of art. (See more of ZACO Cakes  ) And Ari (from Singapore) sent a touching ecard.

Feeling Fine @ Fishbones!

The four of us had a wonderful brunch at Fishbones. Too much  great food (but so worth it) fueled the activities of the afternoon, which included a training session on our tractor/brush hog and hauling away branches (and a rather large portion of the trunk) of the tree my husband felled the day before.

As strange as it sounds, I was quite happy for the diversity of activity in the day, from hanging out/eating to some hearty outdoor work.  A competitive (yet friendly) Scrabble game and viewing of Amazing Race Finale, sealed the day just fine.

And I went to bed, all aglow….feeling the Love, being given and received, fill me up to the brim.

For the Gift, Priviledge, Responsibilty and Honor of being Mother for my Zachary, Arianna and Avery, I am truly Grateful and Blessed…

Ruth

For the handful of photos taken on Sunday check out my facebook album here.

 

My Inside Design/WITHIT Weekend in NYC!

Part One: The Presentors           

 ”Life is a great big canvas, and you should throw all the paint on it you can.” Danny Kaye

….last weekend in NYC, as part of the WITHIT (Women in the Home Furnishings Industry Today) group, of which I’m a member, I was priviledged to be up close and personal with more than a handful of people that do just that…throw “paint” on their life canvas.

The kick off for the weekend was a Salon Performance/Cocktail party/Cooking Demonstration by Hollywood Music Awards Best New Country Artist Cooper Boone.  Cooper espouses that he has two

Nothing like having a private concert in Cooper's Kitchen.

passions; music and food, which he merged together seamlessly….preparing in front of us, a couple of his favorite party fares and offering a selection of songs as dessert. Before each song we were given the story behind the song (all of which he wrote) which simply added more depth to the already enthralling evening. His personablness, energy and passion simply set the stage for so much more of the same in days to follow. And if you’d like to see some photos of said event, click here. Yes, we did have fun!

NOTE: For those in NY this week, Cooper is performing at The Bitter End, with all proceeds from the concert going towards Nashville Flood Relief. Click here for more info/to get tickets.

Sunday morning our first order of business was to enjoy a

Can you guess what she's holding? Yes, a rug sample, made of recycled biycycle tires.

brunch at the HK Restaurant…which we dutifully did, prior to meandering through the Hells Kitchen Flea Market on our way to the Javits Center for the ICFF (International Contemporary Furniture Fair) Show. Special tours with the British European Design Group and Interiors from Spain Group, again, adding depth as we learned the stories behind many of the exhibitors showcasing their product with respective groups. Did grab a few photos, which you can see here.

For dinner Sunday night the Green Table restaurant in Chelsea Market was closed to the public as our WITHIT/Inside Design tour attendees held a private dinner party. Although I chose not to attend (opted to spend evening with my husband at his Long Island apartment) I understand it was a wonderful night.

Monday….talk about it being “A Day!” 

Artspace was where we all convened at 8:45 Monday morning. Located between 6th and 7th Avenues, in what appears to be an obscure place, a ride up a rather primitive elevator  (one of 3 such elevators we would experience during the weekend) to the 5th floor, would take you to the work home of 3 very special and talented artists. 

Laura Loving kicked off the morning, sharing with us her love for all things joyful (says her clients are creative happy

Enthralled audience listens to Laura share...

people…I like that) which she illustrates so clearly in her vibrant and lively artwork. Yes, color and more color, with NYC offering her much inspiration. Isabelle Higgins then took us to the land of textiles and the depth and warmness  of her personality which she expresses in the texture of fabrics. And from there we were delighted by Russian born artist Michael Glickman, the power and personality behind Fabrika.

Lunch was a double delight…venue of the City Winery serving well as stage for the 2011 Color Trend Presentation by Doty Horn of Benjamin Moore, and hosted by Country Living Magazine.

The weather continued to co operate for us and we were able to wend our way by foot to the Franklin St. location of Urban Archeology, where were given a most delightful and informative private Studio Tour. For photos of lunch and Urban Archeology, click here.

And yet there was more for us….

Roberto Dutesco, the energy/life behind the Wild Horse of Sable Island Gallery was up close and personal as he shared

Roberto Dutesco sharing the philosophy of his photography.

with us how his photography is simply an outlet for his life philosophy. He expressed unparalleled enthusiasm for a new project in the works, of a “Mobile Musuem” exhibiting his Wild Horses, with proceeds going towards the building of kindergartens in Indonesia.

And to anchor the day we found our way to the Broadway location of Safaviah, the host for Cocktails, followed by a Green Design Conversation with Thom Filicia, who is serving as spokesperson for the Sustainable Furnishings Council. With the popularity of his public persona (appearances on Oprah, Ellen and the View, just to name a few) he serves the Council well….not to mention his status as one of House Beautiful’s top 10 designers etc etc etc., adding punch/power to his name. Click here for photos of our time at Sable Island Horse Gallery and Safaviah/Thom Filicia event.

Was Thom's birthday on Monday. We "released" him after some photo ops.

Just writing this out reminds me of the amazing program we were so priviledged to experience in the grand city of New York.  The common thread of each event/presentation was a personablness (realness if you will), sense of passion and depth (yes, I know I’ve used that word extensively here, but it works), which was nothing less than inspirational.

And all of this came to be under the fine planning and direction of Betty Lyn Eller, the chairman of the planning committee.

Thank you Betty Lyn and WITHIT for giving such a window on Design. I had high expectations and they were met and more.

Ruth

P.S. In the interest of sharing the wealth of this weekend with my audience I will be offering a number of giveaways…just wanted to set the stage here by giving a synopsis, one which I’ll refer to going forward in subsequent blog giveaways.

But first, Part 2: The Participants of this Event, by way of introducing you to some of my fellow WITHIT members….look for this next week.

 

Introducing Custom Pieces Using Reclaimed Wood…

Yes, I excited to advise that we have recently received a fresh shipment from China…AND are already pulling together pieces for the next lot.

CB1 Olive Wood Table

This olive wood table certainly is hearty, and as much as you’d want to put it outdoors, it serves best in an indoor environment….and, due to the weightiness of it, in a place where it won’t need to be moved often.

It’s a great addition to the bench we brought in earlier this year, which was a big hit at the recent High Point Market.

CA 2 Camphor and Rosewood Bench

Both pieces can be viewed at our High Point Warehouse, at 400 Mandustry St. We are OPEN 9:00-5:00 the 2nd Wednesday (yes, that would be tomorrow for June) of every month, as members of the High Point Design Center and year round by appointment.

In addition to seeing my complete collection at this location, know that the following companies are also represented and have informed sales associates available to answer your queries.

You can check us out at our websites as noted below.

www.antiquesbyzaar.com

www.bellascenda.com

www.katburki.com

www.vanderveerimports.com

 

Designer Elaine Griffin

Designer Extrodinaire...Elaine Griffin

It was back in 2005 when NY Designer Elaine Griffin and Antiques by Zaar first connected. At the time she was contributing editor to the O at Home magazine, doing a regular feature by way of “Good Works Makeovers” and I was 5 years into running my online business, selling Chinese Antiques.

The freshly done lounge at Safe Horizon.

 Her enthusiasm for her then current project, the Safe Horizon Home, was evident from the get go, and it didn’t take but a minute for me to agree to contribute to the project by way of a pair of tea tables that flanked the Liz Clairborne loveseat, topped with Robert Abbey lamps, and a backdrop of 9 Oly mirrors. 

Fast forward to 2010. Elaine is now contributing editor to Better Homes and Gardens and is continuing on with doing good will makeovers, this one being for recently widowed Ann Hanover who relocated from Washington State to upstate New York, to be near her son and his family. Project was to give her an inviting and warm retreat in the bedroom of her new home.

I happened to be hanging at the beach in Langkawi Malaysia with my daughter (blogged about here) when I received a, now familiar, high energy email from Elaine, asking me if I would contribute to her latest project, suggesting the perfect piece…. a piece that she needed by the following Wednesday…in time for the shoot.

Mixing wood finishes/genres keeps things from being "matchy matchy"

Thanks to the ever efficient services offered by Melissa @ Metropolitan, my trusty blanket wrap shipper, the piece was expedited from my High Point NC warehouse to upstate NY, in time for the photo shoot. And yes, I am glad that I paid the nominal fee to check my email twice daily from the hotel computer. Results to be found in the current/June issue of Better Homes and Gardens.

As Elaine states “mixing furniture finishes is the hallmark of a well-designed contemporary room”… placing my Chinese black lacquered sideboard alongside  a wood chair with a limed look, to exemplify this point in her project. And personally (of course) I couldn’t agree more.

So pleased to be a part of this, our 2nd collaboration.

If you’re interested in learning more of Elaines “tips” you can do so, by buying her book Design Rules, which was published late last year….just click icon below and you will be taken straight to Amazon…or you can try your luck at winning an autographed copy, by way of my book giveaway…announcing here and again in my July 4th newsletter. To participate simply leave a comment in the blog and will include your name. Winner of the giveaway will be announced Monday July 12th.. ..

…and if you feel you might recognize Elaine, it may be from her appearances on the Today Show where she periodically does guest appearances offering Design tidbits.

BR 13 Black Lacquered Sideboard: Retail 2,225.00

And, of course, we do have stock of similar styled black sideboards, such that Elaine used in Ann’s bedroom. Click here, to view all that we have available.

Ruth

 

Chinese Kang Chests come “Art Deco” Desks

 

Designer Kat Burki is in the company of many in her profession that like to use these colorful consoles in a variety of settings. Yours truly poised in front of a pair in South Hampton showhouse, where a non matching pair served as dressing tables.

For years we have offered a wide array of colors (but not excluding traditional natural wood tone as well) of what we have coined as “art deco desks”. They are moderately priced (975.00), easy to ship and fit quite nicely into a variety of niches and working with an array of decorating styles. Yes, a versatile piece that adds a flavor of China to your home.

As the colors offered are not classic Chinese…shades of blue, yellow, green  and bone, it is obvious that we have added a modern touch to a traditional piece. But what most people don’t know is that these chic little consoles have evolved from being what the Chinese call a kang chest.

For those of you familiar with Chinese antiques, you would think of a Kang chest as what we have termed as low sideboards or vaults, as catagorized on our website.  The Kang chests which our innovative friends are transforming (thanks to the directives/influence of the French) into what we have coined as art deco desks, are of a rather specific size that has been popular with those in Northern China (in particular) for generations, and thus, the stock of such pieces for us to continually have at our hands to transform, is plentiful.

Your basic Kang chest, to which legs are added, cupboards adjusted and finished, per our specifications, and voila...

As our own stock of such has recently all but depleted I’m thrilled to advise that we have prepared more than 20 kang chests come art deco desks, to add to our offerings. You can see them (and the rest of the inventory on this container) by clicking here…. all which has just left China this week and is due to arrive in our NC warehouse early August.

Our colorful collection of art deco desks have served as a great draw in our High Point showrooms, here in Market Square, 2006.

Should you want to secure one of these treasures (or anything else for that matter) I am happy to do so with a 30% deposit…balance due once container lands and we’re ready to ship to you. With that the item would be taken out of circualtion and noted as SOLD.

NOTE: Kat Burki’s South Hampton showhouse dressing room (where per chance were a pair of Antiques by Zaar art deco desks) caught the attention of Traditional Home and thus featured in the April 2010 issue.

up close and personal, as seen in April 2010 Traditional Home

 

 

Chinese Kang Chest as a Coffee Table

….as a coffee table you ask?  Can’t say that that application would’ve rolled off my tongue, but per photo below, it does work so very well.

Chinese Kang Chest used as a coffee table in front porch of model home on Kiawah Island, SC.

   Per Judi Embresica, of TGE Design Group, (and Antiques by Zaar customer since October 2005), who purchased the Kang table for the model porch, the piece got “rave reviews”, and should you be interested in enjoying additional photos of this beautifully appointed model home in the new Cottoges of Cypress Point, located on Kiawah Island, SC, click here.

……and should you be interested in a similar piece, either to use as a coffee table, or perhaps as more commonly used, under your flat screen TV, feel free to visit our Low Sideboard Section (not everybody understands “Kang”) where you can see full array of offerings on such pieces, including the below, and more….

BP 77 Black Decorated Kang Chest

CB 34 Solid Black Kang Chest...as seen in June Better Homes and Gardens

Kang Chest used as chest in a bedroom, by designer Elaine Griffin.

Also have a couple of Mongolian pieces such as this, BB 74

...and then there are Tibetan infused pieces, such as BP 76 (and more on next shipment.)

 ….and if you have an interesting application for a Kang Chest, do let me know…and sharing a photo or two would be even better.

Ruth

 

 

Antiques by Zaar: 10 Things to know…

1. In 2000 Antiques by Zaar’s business was established/premised on an “etail” only model, thus breaking new ground as THE FIRST online only  seller of Chinese Antiques …offering re conditioned Chinese antique pieces at a true “online” retail price.

...as shown on About Us/Our Story section of our site.

2. ZAAR represents the names of my children, Zachary, Arianna, and Avery…and I am Ruth, anchoring the name…husband’s contribution was that it was his idea Click here to read the About Us on our website.

3. The Chinese logo associated with my business is my name, Ruth Olbrych….fashioned after a pendant I had made whilst living in Taiwan.

4. Since 2004 Antiques by Zaar has been showing at the High Point Furniture Market, opening doors to present, in person, product (and yours truly) to the Trade.

5. And in 2008 we further established in High Point by  moving our  Maine warehouse there.  As a member of the High Point Design Center  we are open the 2nd Wedensday of every month and otherwise by appointment.

6.  Antiques by Zaar has been doing an online newsletter since 2004, to a list of Past Customers and Prospects that now numbers over 5,000. Feel free to sign up by clicking here…and now THRILLED with onset of social media, giving so many additional  venues, like this blog, to put our online business out there….

7.  Close to 100 direct consumer (ie, not Designers) customers have made multiple purchases for their homes….some in one fell swoop and others over the course of the years ….Similarly repeat customers in my Design business continues to grow in relevance as comfort level in shopping online increases. Thank YOU ALL!!!!

Check out our Home Gallery here, with photos as shared by my customers….and that which will be added to greatly in next few weeks.

9. Antiques by Zaar is excited to branch off with the ZAAR Design Center, using the High Point base as a venue to offer an affordable presence to other businesses, like Antiques by Zaar, that understand the value of offering a year round presence,  to its customer base.

10. This Thanksgiving Antiques by Zaar marks 10 years since it’s first online sale and is THRILLED to be here, holding this lovely niche we created.

Credit for the 10 Things Theme goes to Olga Adler of Olga Adler Interiors who did a blog a ways back that was similar in nature to what I quipped here and I thought it so clever and have been meaning to mimmick that for my own business, with, of course, giving credit to Olga for the idea.

Note: Met Olga at Jane Pollak’s  Remarkable Women Event in NYC last Fall. Both women blog and both are worthy of following.

 

“Sip and See” 8/11/10

Kris and Kathy Coupland, of Vanderveer Imports, and Trade Partners with Antiques by Zaar, are graciously hosting a “Sip and See” for the High Point Design Center Designer Wedensday.

Thrilled for them to be hosting this and am equally thrilled that I will be able to be there to meet and greet as well.

So, for Designers in the area, be sure to drop in at 400 Mandustry St, to view the latest and greatest from Vanderveer and Antiques by Zaar.

 Drop by between 1:30 and 3:30 and see our wonderful pieces as well as Antique by Zaar’s furniture, and treat yourself to a refreshing wine spritzer, while perusing the extensive collection of Chinese Antiques and porcelain, as presented by Antiques by Zaar and Vanderveer respectively.

We so look forward to seeing you.

Feel free to give a call for questions or clarification.  As I’ll be on the road, best to reach me on my cell at 207 838 2675, or by email at ruth@antiquesbyzaar.com . Yes, JUST got connected with my biz email on my iphone. Love it, love it, love it!

Ruth

P.S.  For preview of Antiques by Zaar offerings visit www.antiquesbyzaar.com

 

Directions:

From Main/English St.: down English 3 miles.

Left onto South Road & go 1/2 mile.

Left onto Lambeth and continue 1/4 to warehouse/showroom

 

 

Minta Bell Design Group: Good Customer/Good Friend

Ever versatile Chinese art deco desk used as bedside. (Minta Bell's 1st abyzaar purchase.)

October 2005, Minta and Amy of Minta Bell Design, first visited Antiques by Zaar in our then Market Square showroom.

...and her most recent purchase, a red lacquered sideboard to anchor the dining room in this model home.

Since then the relationship has been fostered by repeated visits during Market, some chatty phone calls in between Markets, and additional purchases of Chinese pieces to serve as accents in her decorating schemes, as they do so…well, so well.

The relationship has always been warm, friendly and professional. I couldn’t be happier that Minta Bell has come to count on Antiques by Zaar, comfortable now to buy from photos alone, as a source for thier touches of Asian….and look forward to seeing them at Market this week….

Be sure to check Minta’s website and also her blog Insights: Musings on Interior Designs…worth the visit/read.

Ruth

P.S. …quite by accident discovered that Minta is friends with none other than Kris and Kathy Coupland of Vanderveer Imports…yes, the same Vanderveer that is showing in Zaar Design Center this Market. My, my world is getting smaller and smaller every day.

 

North Carolina Bound!

NC Here I come!

Hard to believe the summer is all but gone, and here I am packing my bags for the first of several trips lined up for this last part of 2010. Yes, packing up my KIA and making my way to North Carolina!

The wonderful Vanderveer gals!

Launching the week by co hosting with Kris and Kathy Coupland of Vanderveer Imports, a  “Sip and See”  for the High Point Design Center Designer Wednesday on the 11th.

Although I will be tackling my inventory…not only taking a full physcial inventory, but also receiving a new container of goodies, I will be available for appointments for balance of the week, should Wednesday not work for you.

My sister Linda...MY very personal connection to Cancer.

On the weekend look forward to visiting my dear friend Dee Kropf , manager of the Smith Mountain Lake Discovery Shop in VA. Came to know Dee as she and her team of volunteers pound the High Point pavement each and every Market, looking for donations for their upscale shop to raise funds for the American Cancer Society. Have been thrilled that the Chinese pieces we have donated have been very popular to date and we together are looking to find further ways to support this valid cause. Click here for more on Antiques by Zaar/Smith Mountain Lake.

And then next week it’s off to Charlotte for the Annual WITHIT Leadership Conference.  Have been a member of WITHIT for 3 years now and this is the first year I’ve been able to schedule attending the conference. After my April WITHIT sponsored Design Tour event (which I gushed about here),  I can only imagine how much more gushing will result following this conference.

And so off to finish packing.  Look forward to shooting out updates on all of above!

Ruth

 

WITHIT/High Point Design Centre: Organizations of Substance

WITHIT: Women’s Leadership Development Network

 Learn, Grow, Lead, Encourage

OUR CAUSE: To Encourage and develop Leadership, Mentoring, Education and Networking Opportunities for Professional Women in the Home and Furnishings Industries.

Yes, WE were ALL THAT....here, at the opening cocktail reception.

The above “says it all” if you will, as far as what WITHIT is all about. What a delight to say that it is “All That” and that I am proudly a member of this organization, and if you’re a female in the Home Furnishing Industry, you should consider joining, if you haven’t already.

 Although a member for the past 3 years, “life” would have it (and the fact that I reside in Maine doesn’t help) such that I wasn’t able to participate much in organized events. In fact it was just this past May that I attended my first WITHIT organized event, that being the Inside Design Weekend in NYC, which I gushed about here, in a blog.  Happily I FINALLY made it to the Annual Leadership Conference/WOW Awards Dinner, which is held in Charlotte NC each August. Click here to check out fun photos at said event.

An evening gathering at Carol Gregg’s last Spring could count as my premiere unorganized introduction to the group as she orchestrated a dinner on her Red Egg porch, and go figure, all the women she invited, were, you guessed it, WITHIT members. Yes, wrote about that in a blog as well.

I’ve been in business 10 years now, (online sales of Chinese Antique Furniture, in case you didn’t know) much of it working in a bubble….from my home in New Gloucester Maine. Since 2004 I’ve been making my way to High Point NC to participate in the High Point Furniture Market. And when in Spring 2008, after I had finished moving my warehouse from Maine to North Carolina, I joined the High Point Design Centre, and their mission to have a relevant presence Year Round to Trade for those that like to use the many resources available in High Point…ie, it isn’t JUST  about Market twice/year.

Shannnon, myself and Carol all share membership in both organizations...we let Joanie in as part of the photo op

So, yes, the High Point Design Center group was my first forray into joining a network that would envelop and support  me and my business. And my affiliation with such would further offer opportunities for networking and growth with ASID Carolina’s Chapter as I “made myself known” participating in conferences of the latter, supporting mission of the former. It would be a chat with Kathleen Holterman (active member of both HPDC and WITHIT) that would introduce and encourage me to add WITHIT to my roster of valuable groups to join.  (In more detail in blog dated August 09, Withit: My Story Thus Far.) Didn’t have to be told twice…I was in…and yes I have found MY PLACE in yet another group.

Frankly it shouldn’t be much of a surprise that there are much more than a handful of women that have membership in both groups, which is a further delight to me.

My first social intro to the comrarderie of WITHIT members, Spring 09. Tx Carol.

All this to say what? All this to say that, if you haven’t already discovered the value in joining an organization where your own personal vision is supported and nurtered, then it’s time to do so. Oh sure, I did “ok” when flying solo…hopping in and out of High Point inobtrusively for Markets. But how much more gratifying is it to be greeted, enveloped, supported and uplifted, simply by opening up to the Gift so freely given, when joining an organization of Substance…and that is what WITHIT and HPDC are, Organizations of Substance….because they hold true to their “causes” and because their members unite in supporting their respective causes, simply by each of them being who they are and collectively remembering  and honoring why they exist as an entity.

There are too many people to acknowledge here name by name, but you know who you are. …

You are the Founders, who had the Vision.

You are the Members that fuel the engine by serving on a board/committee.

You are the Members that serve as ambassadors. (how hard is it to promote something you believe so strongly in?)

 You are the Members that join and become part of the growing whole.

You are those that welcome newcomers and make them feel like they belong.

You are those that share your path to career and personal success, paving way for recipriocity.

 

You are those the continue to Believe in the Power of Gathering, Uniting, Uplifting and creating a Voice.

Deborah Klein, WOW nominee for Mentor award. An honor indeed.

So, just thank you. I know that I, and my business , which just happens to be an extension of myself, are the better for all that these organizations offer, and am grateful to be a member, to participate and promote…any chance I get.

See ya’ll around…be it at Market, at one of the sponsored events and/or on Facebook, Linkedin or Twitter. Yes, so nice to stay in touch online between “real world” visits.

Ruth

 

A well heeled and colorful group we are....

 

 

 

MY Sunshine in Australia

 

Avery, my "raison d'etre" for going to Australia.

I’ve but just returned to Maine from what was a whirlwind 3 weeks on the road….this particular time for personal reasons…setting up my daughter Arianna in school for her senior year at University of Western Ontario/visiting (ever so briefly) my family, followed directly by a trip to Australia to visit my youngest daughter, who is there (as a McGill student) doing a semester abroad….ALL interspesed with smatterings of days in NY.

And now, before I go full force into the final stages of prepping for the High Point Furniture Market, I’d like to take a few minutes to chronicle my trip “Down Under” , total purpuse being to see MY Sunshine, Avery.

Travelling internationally is not new to me, but you’d think so with how I started off this trip….ie, not paying attention to “details” if you will, which almost landed me in trouble as, after a no less than 9 hour layover in Los Angeles,(during which I happily and liesurely worked away on my computer in the comfort of the Red Carpet Lounge)  I found myself making what was a mad dash from Terminal 7 to Terminal 2 to catch my Air New Zealand flight.  (only realized I was going VIA New Zealand the week before leaving….didn’t catch I was ON AIR New Zealand…the miniscule ANZ on my UNITED boarding pass had gone unnoticed)  As I found my way (with alot of supportive words from the many strangers I insisted on sharing my “stupidity” with) to my gate I pondered ever ever telling any of my family members of this as the response emmitted (and the endless ribbing) would be too much to bare.

Yes, I made it safely to Surfers Paradise/Gold Coast, being greeted by a gorgeous sunshine filled day and “perfect” temperature for our  anticipated beach holiday. Avery would meet me at the end of same day, flying up from Melbourne, where she is at the University of Melbourne for the term, and was on beginning of her 2 week “winter” break.

Woke up to the beautiful sunrise the first morning. Who could know the turn we'd be in for for weather?

It was wonderful to have this time together, and the anticipation of working on our tans, as we caught up on the last 2 plus months excited us both. However, where the sun shines 300 plus days/year, it would be the case that we would be visiting in that teeny tiny window of cold and rainy weather that we could call “ours”.

In the window of good weather  we did enjoy whale watching, (less a case of sea sickness for yours truly. Really, when did I get so soft?) a visit to Sea World, the Curumbin Sanctuary (highlight absolutely being the visiting/feeding of the kangaroos), adding Hard Rock Cafe #14 to our list, Dracula dinner and show and the Australia Zoo, AND 1/2 day sun worshipping.

LOVING the Kangaroo Crossing!

Making just a few friends here...

But truly….

End of a great day at Carumbin!

No, the sun did not shine for us in Australia for the greater part of our beach vacation. But MY sun shine was to be in the embracing of my daughter, travelling half way across the world, to see her, talk with her, and let her know how much I love her….just in case she didn’t know.

Ruth

P.S. As I made my way back to Maine, said daughter continued her break with some school friends in Cairns/The Great Barrier Reef, where apparantly she enjoyed a week FULL of sunny days, which was great as she ventured out white water rafting, snorkeling and sky diving!

Tim Tams...our FAVE Australian fix for a snack attack.

 

Antiques by Zaar Showing in High Point NC: Since 2004

 

A smattering here, of our wonderful, one of a kind offerings.

Antiques by Zaar established itself as the first fully online based business, specializing in Chinese Antiques, in 2000….serving retail and trade customers alike. This in and of itself deserves a full blog entry…soon. In the interest of growing our trade business we started exhibiting at the High Point Furniture Market Spring of 2004.

2004-2009

When we started to show, we were still warehousing in Maine and thus a permanent showroom was important to us, and as such, what was offered in the Market Square building was most appealing….a building which was a wonderfully restored mill building… not unlike the mill building in which we warehoused at in Maine….a building where designers sought out new and intriquing lines.

Warmly greeted customers from Market Square 2004-2007.

Four years at Market Square, with last couple adding a 2nd space in the adjoining building Suites at Market Square, one year in Suites alone,  followed by a season in the IHFC building (Pavillions on 2) served us well.

Sidenote: Over the course of time we realized the relevance of High Point on a larger scale for our Maine based company and as such determined to move our center of business, ie, our entire inventory, to High Point.  Thus, in Spring of  2007 we started redirecting containers to High Point and spent the following year  managing locations in 2 states as we worked torwards  full move to High Point.  Spring 2008, the job was complete.

Love opportunities to promote the HPDC, here at Fall 2010 ASID Carolina's conference.

With warehouse fully in place it made sense to join the High Point Design Center and get on the bandwagon of promoting trade business in High Point year round…the reason said group exists, and yeah for us for this wonderful venue to promote our presence.

 2009!

Ah, the decisions we had to make to stay in business during this most challenging of economic times.  And how auspicious of us to have made the decision to move our inventory to High Point BEFORE the bottom fell out of the economy….

The next decision was tougher. Exhibiting in a Market showroom, making people aware of our newly established warehouse, was, what I thought, the perfect scenario. Have a prescence in a established building and offer ALL of my collection for ready viewing just a few short miles away.

Relaxing at the end of our first successful showing from our warehouse/showroom, Fall 2009.

But as the economy took its toll on my sales I had a choice to make…spend my $$$ on inventory or spend it on a showroom…Sadly, I didn’t have the resources for both.  I knew I wanted to stay in business, and although my committment to the Market Showrooms was high, the right thing for my business over rode such, and so, a decision was made, that would serve the future existance of my precious business.

So, with bated breath I let my everybody know that my warehouse would also serve as my showroom, this announcement made exactly a year ago. With my loyal sales associate/showroom designer, and so much more,  Jeff Moore, by my side, we created a new strategy and made it work!

So happy that I’m here to write about it, and tell you about my new and improved  location, from which we will be showing from in just a couple of weeks time.

My landlord, West Express, also happens to be one of my trusted shippers, relocated this Fall and I moved with him. Thus you can find Antiques by Zaar , and more…more about the “more” in following blog….at 220 Feld Avenue, just under 3 miles from downtown High Point!

Very much look forward to meeting and greeting all those that are interested in purusing our fine line of Chinese Antiques…either during Market or following, as we are open, by appointment, year round.
Ruth

 

ZAAR Design Center…the “more” from Antiques by Zaar.

The "more" that you'll see when visiting Antiques by Zaar.

Per my most recent blog posting,  I indicated that there would be “more” in store for those that are able to make a visit to 220 Feld Avenue, during this Fall 2010 Market, and thus I introduce to you, drum roll please, to the  ZAAR Design Center.

The concept of having several closely situated companies collaborate to have a collective, year round, presence, has been evolving in my head for some time now… so the fact that it is at the stage where I can introduce to you, as an entity, ZAAR Design Center, is absolutely thrilling  to me.

There is no “Center” without Trade Partners, and am proud that the following four companies serve as founding Partners, with Antiques by Zaar, namely…

Bellascenda: Your source for  flat screen lift furniture.

Kat Burki:  Lifestyle brand, including custom upholstered furniture and carpets….and so much more.

Vanderveer Imports:  Chinese reproduction porcelain and ceramics.

Lady Be Goode:  European antiques, “uniques”, art and a line of signature lighting.  website forthcoming…

Aside from the fact that each of our respective companies  carries a high end, but well priced, product, we also each bring something unique to the collective plate, which adds to our allure.  Similarly, our shared committment, and desire to do it economically,  to establishing/promoting our businesses in High Point on a year round basis  is a force that drives and unites us all.

 I couldn’t be happier for the fine collection of people and product that are available from our new location. So, be sure to check us out, AND, know that you’re invited to a PARTY that I am hosting to…

Time to Celebrate!

…celebrate 10 years in business for MY “baby” Antiques by Zaar.

…introduce  ZAAR Design Center to the High Point world.

…and celebrate some more… my 50th birthday coinciding with my business’s 10th, so…why not?  It is indeed a landmark year right?

So, Tuesday, October 19th, starting at 5:00, is where you will find food, beverages and entertainment.  Full Kee Chinese restaurant will be catering the event and Rick Allred will be entertaining us with music and magic.

RSVP certainly not required, but appreciated…just to help us plan for food. No number too small or too great. Party is on!

Directions from IHFC: Total Distance 3 miles

 

• Down SOUTH MAIN/US 311 BR 2.6 miles
• Right onto FAIRFIELD and go .2 miles
• Left onto EARLHAM and go .2 miles
• Right onto FELD AVE and go .2 miles

ZAAR Design Center is on your right hand side (across from Brayton International)

NOTE: Directional signs for ZAAR Design Center will be at each intersection and also at driveway entrance to the showroom.

….ample parking available.

Also, the Go Anywhere Shuttle will come our way as well.

 

Look forward to an exciting Fall 2010 Market!

Ruth

 

Seth Godin: Small is the New Big…this works for me.

Last Thursday I hit the road, yet again…and, as usual, armed with my phone/charger (for the obvious), tape recorder/fresh tapes, for my “audio journal”, and a handful of books on CD, to catch my reading time. With this on hand, it amazes even me, how fast a full day, never more than 12 hours, of driving can pass.

More than just a "good read"...a MUST read.

As the impetus of this trip was to get to NC to prepare the warehouse/showroom for the semi annual High Point Furniture Market , followed by Market itself, I like to find CD books that “spur me on” to that dream I am following…AND, Seth Godins’  Small is the New Big’  did just that.

Without going into a full out review, let me entice anyone who feels that they might be wondering about putting themselves out on a limb, whether or not to do that…well, if you had any doubts, reading this will surely quell those, and in fact will assure you that you are most definitely on a track that will serve you, and others, well.

As I get closer to the introduction of ZAAR Design Center becoming a reality, following all online intros prefaced, I am feeling more and more that the uncertainty/uneasiness and “fear” are all worth combating, and necesssary feelings to have, to follow your heart and do what you feel you need/can do to contribute to the greater good, striving to be no less than Remarkable.

Thank you to my dear friend, and customer, Sylvia Muller/proprietor of The Mill House Inn, for introducing me to Seth, his blog, and subsequently to his books. Thank you to the Auburn Public Library, for having this book in stock at the time I was looking for something for my current road trip.

Ruth

P.S. Tell you another thing. IF I had disappointed myself in NOT pushing forward with my “grand plans” my feelings following reading of this particular missive would’ve been more of “dumb me…I KNEW I should’ve bitten the bullet”….so nice to have such acknowledgment/support and FEEL like you have someone like Seth in your corner, spurring you on….

 click image to be taken directly to Amazon to purchase your own version…or do as I did and rent the audio version from your library for $1.00/2 weeks….

 

Kat Burki @ ZAAR Design Center: High Point NC

Isn't it simply scrumpteous?

Look what showed up at ZAAR Design Center today.  Getting excited….

Come and check it out in person during the High Point Furniture Market, starting on Saturday, although we at ZAAR will be open and ready ready by Thursday!

Ruth

 

From There to Here/Here to There…

My hiatus from blogging, dare I admit to last post being  10/13?, has NOTHING to do with a lack of content and/or interest in sharing with my world all that I feel worthy of sharing, but more to do with where do I start? What is the essence of the messages I want to put out there? How do I pull it all together so that people want to hear what I’m saying?

Sign in Gray ME...just down the road from us. Understand?

There’s a saying here in Maine “you can’t get there from here” …and I KNOW that customers looking for my house in ME (years ago) were told just this, and go figure, they did get here from there :)  AND didn’t let that detour deter them…as they are still good AbyZaar customers …. and that is how I am feeling right now, in that I need to step back, take a look, and a big deep breath, and find my way there, even if it may not be the route the signs suggested…

Truth of the matter is that there are SO MANY supporting me in my evolving vision that it is becoming as much a mission/mandate, and desire not to disappoint, as it is a job/business, and that suits me just fine…although the pressure is on, eh?

And so, it seems appropriate for me to launch this blogging binge I plan on embarking on, starting now, by sharing with you,  the many things and people which inspire me…that urge me on/fuel me forward, and give me  a sense that this passion must be shared…all as I wend my way from here to there. Welcome to my ride!

Although I am scribing this missive from my home office in Maine, the last 3 plus weeks have found me everywhere but here…finding inspiration all along the way, as noted in one of my most recent blogs on Seth Godin.

Antiques by Zaar first showroom in Market Square...just under 1,000 sq ft.

My Inspiration: My New Digs @ 220 Feld Ave. High Point NC.

A little extra work preparing for Market this year as we had moved locations in September and thus my 10,000 square foot space, full of inventory I might add, needed a FULL rework. And, in addition to setting up for my business, Antiques by Zaar, I also had to take into consideration the 4 businesses that would be showing with me, presenting ourselves in the  newly established  entity, ZAAR Design Center.

We started the move with making a wall with our armoires...

It felt like every stick of furniture in the building had to be moved from where it had been placed on initial move. Per the urging of Jeff, my right hand in NC, I made my way to High Point a few days earlier than my normal time for Market prep…and so glad I heeded her advice. Two full days, with the help of 2 gentlemen, we got the bulk of the heavy work done, leaving 3 days left to sort out…well, the “fun stuff”.

It was a daunting task on that first glance, and I thought addressing something a 10th of this size had been daunting!, but as the days waned, it came together in a way that had me stop, look, and FEEL, over and over again. In the course of just a few days the warehouse was transformed into a showroom…displaying not only Antiques by Zaar’s collection, but also that of Bellascenda, Kat Burki, Lady B Goode and Vanderveer….the owners of each business addressing their respective vignettes. See pix of all by going to Antiques by Zaar Fan Page on Facebook!

From the signage outside, to the statuary and potted mums placed at the entrance, to the “greeter” we had to register our visitors, to the brightly lit space, which ensured a good dusting job was indeed done, to the coffee and snacks made available, and to the fine people that represented their companies, it was simply delightful and welcoming. What a great place to show and tell…yes, if I do say so myself.

Panoramic of ZAAR Showroom

I may be the biggest fan but from the feedback received from the lovely group of people  that visited us during Market and/or that attended our party, celebrating 10 years for Antiques by Zaar and introducing ZAAR Design Center, I have more than a handful of people agreeing with me.

So yes, after a hearty week working Market, after moving out all that Sold, yeah for me!, during Market and reworking the space to accommodate 2 new lines that we’ll be introducing at next Designer Wednesday, that being 11/10, I left my new space with a smile on my face and feeling all aglow.

Info on each ZAAR Member available as soon as you enter...

We had made it. We had moved. We treated the entire space as a showroom. We welcomed 4 companies to present themselves with us, and they too presented their collections with style and pizzaz.  We had the inaugural Market for ZAAR Design Center, and you know what the really cool thing is????

For all those that didn’t have the time to visit us, we are excitedly prepared to see you throughout the year! The next Designer Wednesday for the High Point Design Center is just around the corner, and we are primped up and ready…and if you can’t make it then, well, just call and make an appointment and someone will avail themselves for you to ensure you have all the info you need for what you are looking at/for.

Can you say it/see it any better than this? Welcome to High Point!

Yes, Antiques by Zaar has moved and ZAAR Design Center is here. So from there to here we are and now we are ready to move from our new Here to There, with many new developments planned for ZAAR Design Center, to serve ….

0ffering ZAAR Trade Partners  a venue to present their collections to their customers…

offering a resource to our Trade customers, with NEW things to look at constantly…have some surprises in store for ya’ll!

All this, year round, from no other than High Point, The Heart of Furniture Land. We welcome you!

Ruth

 

Inspiring Designers Speak @ High Point

A well travelled, sophisticated and warm Barry Dixon…

What do Barry Dixon, Kelly Hoppen and Angelo Surmelis have in common?

Undoubtedly each in thier own right they are renowned designers…each with signature lines, books, tv shows, and are sought after speakers….and thus why such great draws  at IHFC , and as brought in by WITHIT and IFDA at the most recent High Point Furniture Market.

After hearing each of them speak I am inclined to suggest that in addition to their obvious talent as designers,  that their respective successes are due to the winning combination of being good at what they do AND knowing who they are and what value they can bring to the worlds of many.

....effervescent and vibrant Kelly Hoppen.

...and self proclaimed "geeky" Angelo Surmelis

The common thread amongst all was that “trend watching” wasn’t as important to them as was listening to their clients…working with their vision, feeling what they wanted in their surroundings, evolving with them and giving them that “ah ha” moment. Core values, passion, enthusisam and simple love for their work and what they can do for those that count on them to interpret their vision was purported by each.

They are wonderful role models of people that have found their passion, and know that, although it’s all about them, it’s also not about them at all….

Rather than try any harder to put into my words what they said, I will leave you with some of what they shared and which I noted…but suffice it to say, I left each presentation feeling truly inspired that everything I aspire for, is within reach, as long as I believe in the “dream” and ultimately in myself in my ability to carry it out. Thank you all! Onward.

Thank you WITHIT for bringing Barry Dixon to speak....

“Hope the last thing I do is the Best thing I do…KNOW the first thing I did was the worst.”  Barry Dixon

…..is inspired by what is outdoors and brings it in, ie the indoors reflect the view….

Up close and personal with Kelly Hoppen. (oh, to have those arms!)

“Number One: Need to believe in yourself….don’t wallow in failures, just keep on going”  Kelly Hoppen

Kelly Hoppen: What motivates her? Design is in her blood. Always wants to do better/more. Loves what she does, including making people happy.

“If you succeed you can impact change. If you fail….nobody cares.” Angelo Surmelis

“Just because we don’t have money, we have no taste?”  Mother of Angelo Surmelis…..and sensing a very real part of the creation of his new, very affordable, very fashionable furniture line.

 Click image to go directly to Amazon to purchase Barry’s book.

….Kelly’s first (of several) books. Personal fave with East/West theme….of course.

Websites:

Barry Dixon , Kelly Hoppen, and Angelo Surmelis

NOTE:  Both Kelly and Angelo also have blogs that you may be interested in following. Links to be found on respective websites. Enjoy!

 

Celebrating 60 and 50 years respectively…

…..OR, “From Whence I Came”.

60 years of marriage for my parents, Jack and Anne Wall.

Jack and Anne Wall, on the occasion of their 60th wedding anniverary.

That was the reason that close to 200 family and friends gathered at Lutherwood, in Waterloo Ontario. Phenomenal…particulary for my father, who as we have all repeatedly heard “had one foot in the grave and the other on the banana peel” when he married my mother what is now 60 years ago. In fact my father who just turned 86, after decades of severe health issues related to asthma, has never been healthier. And my mother, now 84, suffered a stroke several years back, may have troubles walking but all else moves along at a rapid pace. So, yes, quite the event to celebrate and was glad that I was able to participate with my 3 siblings and….

….so many aunts, uncles and cousins, some that I haven’t seen in too many years. And people that I’ve known along the way…people that  knew us and worked with my parents in the various organizations that they founded and worked…Craig Wood Boys Farm, Parkhill Girls Home, Ausable Springs Ranch, Big Chief Camp, Merry Hill and Chateau Garden Nursing Homes, and Foundation for International Development Assistance….those being the “keynotes” that roll off the top of my head…there were others.

With my Dad at Ausable Springs Ranch/House #1 circa 1964

My parents were married 10 years when I, their 3rd child was born. They were running the Parkhill Girls Home and I was 2 when they moved on to start the “Ranch” where the mix of kids that came to live with us was now co ed, and the average number of mouths to feed was 12. And I worked as a teenager at the Big Chief Camp and also at various nursing homes, and as a college graduate went to Haiti, as a volunteer, ..so yes, in a very intimate way my life was touched by that of my parents and the “mission” they lived as their life appeared as a continuum in mine.

And so for the longest time I was certain that my future would be that of a social worker, standing up for these disenfranchised children that were slipping through this world, unloved and uncared for. I grew up with these kids. I knew them. I understood them….it made sense. But then, as I was working my volunteer stint in Haiti, I came to realize that I had an impact on the people that were under my care. (My job was “public relations” related, as I worked to sensatize our mission tour groups, to the plight of the Haitians, and thereby make them more responsive “givers” to the relief organization I worked for.) Studying for my MSW became replaced by wanting to study Development Education. I was all afire! Yes, I was my father’s daughter, but yet another twist in the road would find me diverting….same road, different path.

Moved to Haiti, at 60 years of age!

1985. Preparing to leave Haiti after 3 years. (And yes, my parents, who were in their early 60′s had just moved there…father to start FIDA, and mother to support it by way of establishing/running a guest house for missionaries) Just on the verge of the Revolution. I decide I want a “summer fling” before leaving. No, I ‘m not the summer fling kind of gal…but it sounded fun….nor was Mark Olbrych, the object of my affections.  You got it. We were married a year later and pregnant shortly thereafter. Haiti in political turmoil and I pregnant, we felt it right to relocate….

After I moved from Haiti, my mother helped me on with my little business, Kado D'Haiti. (you don't mess with her!)

But my dream to help the Haitians by educating Westerners to “help them help themselves?” Gone? No. Reworked. Kado D’Haiti, my first business venture was born.  By marketing their handicrafts I was able to help them directly. I was thrilled at this new bend in my road. More on this in later blogs…. and  carried a torch for my little handicraft business as  we moved from Haiti, to Boston and to Cambridge Ontario, all in the first year we were married.

1990 found our now family of 5, moving to Asia, where we would spend the next 8 years, first in Bangkok Thailand, and then in Taichung Taiwan. Full time mom/expat wife….and might I add, consumate party giver,  kept me hopping.

Zach, Ari, Avery and Ruth...from whence comes "ZAAR"

1999 we moved our family of pre teens from Asia to New Gloucester ME. Husband took a hiatus from corporate and jointly we plunged into the entrepenurial vein….the rest you know…Antiques by Zaar was created and became that which supported our family this past decade.

2010. I have spent the past year learning all aspects of my business as my husband returned to corporate. I am thrilled beyond belief that I am, later this month, celebrating 10 years since my first online sale.

But what I’m really here to say, and hope I haven’t lost you yet, is that there is a fire lit under me for this business, and it’s sister, ZAAR Design Center…and I do know from whence it comes. For, one thing my parents have, and continue to show me, is the value in giving to people.  Another is that of living and working against the odds, never giving up, having a dream and with all the passion and fervor you have, making it a reality….AND getting others ignited by the fire that lit their Soul.

My parents have made themselves the official welcoming committee @ their home, and Dad, self appointed chair of the Puzzle Room...proudly here by one of his creations.

I am the child of Jack and Anne Wall. I have had the example of a faith filled, visionary life set before me.  I see them in thier home Lutherwood, an assisted living facility fashioned after the model my father pioneered in the early ’80′s, where it’s like they are drinking from the fountain of youth, as the daily social mixing that they do with those that live in and around them is, as much as anything, keeping them healthy and vibrant and very much alive.

Antiques by Zaar/ZAAR Design Center, is the vehicle by which I can “let my light shine” and I look forward to seeing my world continue to grow in brightness as it is continually enriched by those that touch me and which I hope I too can touch.

If you have read this to the end, you have given me yet another reason to smile on this my 50th birthday.

Life truly is good and welcome to my world.

Ruth

 

What Made My 50th Birthday a Happy One…

I’m not going to lie,  just ask my family …I have been “counting up” to my 5oth for, well…about a year now. And so I feel it appropriate to acknowledge that which was more than a “celebration” for a single day. Yes, I have managed to spread this out quite nicely over the past several weeks, and so, a taste of what has made me Happy Turning 50…

 my daughter Avery launched this by acknowledging my big 5 0, when I visited her in Australia this past September, read about here….with a touching card and thoughtful gifts….acknowledging my love, no, not addiction, for my morning coffee/time on the road, with a Melbourne Starbucks travel mug, a lovely necklace,  and a pair of adorable, travel sized inspirational books on Happiness and Angels….appreciating  my interest in pulling out such quips which she knows I like to share with my world via twitter/facebook….and needing mini size to travel with.

embracing the fact of my business, Antiques by Zaar,  marks 10 years since it’s first online sale, later this month,  and introducing ZAAR Design Center…celebrating this, and a little birthday cheer, ALL at the High Point Market last month.  Thank you all that contributed to that!

having had  the opportunity to have had some lovely one on one time with my daughter Arianna end of Oct when she joined me in celebrating her grandparent’s 60th wedding anniversary  10/24 in Waterloo Ontario….this too giving me cause for celebration, as noted in my blog….and spending some very precious time with the rest of my family…in particular some “sisterly” time with my 2 sisters.

the wall girls

 taking some days off with my husband so we could have a “staycation” in NYC last weekend….4 liesurely days bopping around the Big Apple/Long Island, taking in a NY Rangers game, just as much a show watching fans as the game, Jersey Boys on Broadway, yes had me dancing and singing as we left the theatre, visit to Metropolitan Museum, and a plethora of leisurely lunches and coffees, people watching and chat chat chatting. Dare I forget to mention that the people watching was enhanced by the fact that we were in the city on October 31st. What a parade of costumes to gaze upon…great fun!

enjoying a reunion, lunch that turned into lunch, afternoon and dinner,  last week with 3 gals that I chummed with when living in Taiwan over a decade ago…bringing back many fond memories of our time in Asia as expats and being thrilled with how we could all pick up as if no time had passed…recalling how we found enjoyment in what one might expect as being unsuspecting places and catching up to where our kids and lives found us now….

anticipating what my son would create for me, by way of a cake, that would capture my “Spirit” on this landmark day. He does like to remind me of my half century status! …and thus he dug into my closet for inspiration, finding a faved blouse, the pattern which he mimicked on his/my cake. If you love this cake, be sure to check out his facebook page, Cake Lab, or even better, if in Maine, commission him for a cake….he is in business! www.zcakelab.com

making dinner, yes, I said making dinner….a good ole American meatloaf, with extra sauce, for my husband. 10 years in Asia I “managed” the kitchen and following 10 years in Maine, my husband ran our kitchen…and likewise ensuring we more often than not ate as a family. I am what I have decided to call myself,  an “Occasion” Cook. I like to cook for the Holidays and for parties, yes, occasions…although have not done nearly as much as I’d like in recent years. So, as my husband always cooks for me, I thought I’d make it special and cook for him. He likes my meatloaf and so, voila…a win win.

attending a local concert, the Battle of the Blends…. a fundraiser for the Maine Music Society, of which I am a member of…namely the Androscoggin Chorale…a concert where it was impossible to leave without a smile on your face and in your heart. Thank you Mark, for being my date!

enjoying Sunday Brunch at Fishbones…our most favorite Sunday Brunch venue.  Not only do we over indulge in the vast buffet set out but we also enjoy getting an update on Bauer, Kate and Paul’s, the owners of this fine establishment, golden retriever…which, yes, is a pup from one of our litters from when we were breeding goldens at Peacock Hill Farm.

And, last, actually, I fear there is more I’d like to put out, but this is already “too long” ,but so far from not being least….

watching my inbox be flooded with birthday messages, yes, the bulk via facebook, all week long. What a treat to have so many people, some that I admittedly know better than others, wish me well. My heart was truly touched, more than you can know.

Yes, I’ve had my 50th birthday…come and gone, BUT, my 50th year has just begun. With the love of my family around me and my world of friends opening their arms to me, I know that, with the growing wisdom of years, and the desire to touch and be touched, that wonderful Blessings lie ahead. Thank you for being part of my world.

Ruth

P.S….and I more than like the blue boots my husband gifted me…yes, “colorful”. They suit me, don’t you think?

 

ZAAR Design Center: New Perspectives/Fresh Choices

Yes, it is already time for the High Point Design Center  Designer Wednesday….and those of us at ZAAR Design Center are eager to have you stop by and check out what we have for “New Perspectives and Fresh Choices“….as well as share a birthday drink with “Bunny” Vanderveer

We will be open from 9:00- 4:00, ready to welcome you!

 

….just to peak your curiosity you can click here to view photos taken @ ZAAR Design Center during the most recent High Point Furniture Market…and to peak it further read on….

Bellascenda, which also can be found on TODL,  has, in addition to thier line of lift furniture for your tv’s, a display set up to inform you of services provided in thier decorative arts studio Degage.

Kat Burki  has a new line of custom carpets they are introducing….but is also incredibly busy setting up their new retail location in Westport CT, stopped in to visit last week…is going to be stunning!…and updating thier website to reflect their growing offerings as part of her Lifestyle Brand. Teaser: Look forward to shopping for  KB goodies  @ December’s Designer Wed….

Lady B. Goode is happy to share her line of custom chandeliers, along with a wonderful collection of “uniques”…art and collectibles.  Catalogue of her custom lighting line available at ZAAR, but for all else you’ll have to come and see first hand….a collection that will change from month to month….

 

Antiques by Zaar is excited to add to thier line of New Pieces from Old Wood …traditional pieces that are made of reclaimed Chinese Elmwood, with a lovely natural wax finish.

…and Vanderveer Imports will not only be showing their collection of hand selected reproduction Chinese porcelain and ceramics, but they will also be hosting a “sip and see” celebrating “Bunny” Vanderveers birthday! 

A couple of Scorpios here….I just celebrated my birthday (the big 5 0) this past weekend, as noted in my blog posting here.

So, we welcome you with open arms to the ZAAR Design Center…and should you care to read a little about how ZAAR has come into place, and what it means to me, feel free to read this.

Ruth

 

Angels Watching Over/A Prayer

May Angels rest beside your door,

may you hear their voices sing.

May you feel thier loving peace bells ring.

May angels always care for you,

and not let you trip and fall.

may they bear you up on angels wings,

may they keep you standing tall.

May they fill you with their presence,

may they show you love untold,

may they always stand beside you

and make you ever bold.

May they teach you what you need to know

about life here and here-after.

May they fill you always with their love

and give you the gift of laughter.

…..for my Sister, Linda.

 

Sister Linda

                                 

Tuesday December 14th the Kay/Wall families received a bevy of people that came to acknowledge the recent  passing of my younger sister, Linda Wall. Visitation was at the Ratz-Bechtal Funeral Home and there was a steady stream of people that came to pay their respects, for the 2.5 hour period. It was quite amazing. The visitation room was appointed so tastefully with the many flowers that were sent, as well as photos of family and friends, a slideshow and  memorbilia that represented various interests of Linda…ie, her knitting and artwork. Linda allocated donations to FIDA-PCH, the organization our parents founded in Haiti over 20 years ago.

 

 

 To view photos of the lovely presentation at the visitation, click this facebook photo link

To see the slideshow and leave notes of condolences, visit the link for Ratz Bechtel, here.

To visit FIDA-PCH website and view memorial/send donations, click here.

 

Wednesday December 15th, the sun was shining brightly on a crisply freshly fallen snow as throngs gathered at the Rockway Mennonite Church to further acknowledge my dear sister Linda. She would’ve been pleased…the church was full to the rafters, the flowers plentiful and beautiful, the music heartwarming and the tributes touching and heartfelt.

 

 

For days following the words of the hymns, Linda requested many…we sang 3, would replay in my head….”Precious Lord Take my Hand”….”When Peace Like a River….” and finally, her very favorite, “Heart with Loving Hearts United.” and Holy Holy Holy, as sung by her highschool chums, Peggy, “Mush” and Sandy…who also came to her house several times in recent weeks to sing hymns with/for Linda…and which I had the absolute pleasure of enjoying myself on 3 occasions.

 

 ___________________________________

What I know for sure is that Friendship was part of Linda’s “Service” and I’m intent on carrying that on…. I’m thrilled to add to my own numbers of friends, those that Linda called on as such. May the League of Angels stay strong and grow in numbers!

 

Ruth

 

 

 

 

2010: Grateful For….

 

                                                                                                    

My name is  Ruth Olbrych, and I am the President of Antiques by Zaar, the online company my husband and I founded in 2000, to import and sell Chinese Antique Furniture.

“President” is the title on our corporate documents but  frankly  I am much more comfortable with “owner/operator”….mostly because it is how I saw my role… as doer.

Anyways, with my husband’s return to the corporate world this past year, I have been put in a place where my leadership was required, should this business continue to not only exist, but grow.

 And here I am at the end of this year… feeling like I did when my first born turned 1. Yes, under my care and my love, my child did much more than merely survive…he thrived…and I, after this full year can pronounce, Yes, I CAN do this….let’s rock on!

But before doing so I would like to take a little space  to acknowledge the many things/people that have been part of my evolution this 2010….

…. My Brain…for  it  stretched  itself to learn skills that seemed impossible in the past….be it managing the technical side of my online persona or crunching numbers.

….the many online venues/social media available to direct people to my website and put myself out there, Facebook, Twitter, LinkdedIn, and this blog….costing TIME but not $$$$.

…High Point Design Center and WITHIT…organizations I am proud to be a member of and appreciate so much the people that they attract and which I can call “mine”.

….Vanderveer Imports, Bellascenda and Kat Burki…all who have joined with me in High Point, as part of my new ZAAR Design Center.

….Jeff Moore, my sales associate/warehouse manager/showroom designer etc etc etc  in High Point. She is me when I’m not in NC, and more…and I couldn’t have a better representative for my business, or friend.

….Nancy Strojny, my SCORE counsellor, who believes  in Antiques by Zaar, and offers guidance, advice and friendship.

….West Express, my High Point landlords, and shippers, and Metropolitan, another shipping company I rely on. Between both companies my customers don’t only receive their furniture, they receive it well.

Ruth with Sandy Jenifer...Happy customer since May 2002!

….And what would a business be without customers? I am so blessed….for those that I’ve had long lasting relationships with and continue to shop with me, for those that are new to my world and are finding their way to shop with me, and for those that have no need to fill but continue to promote Antiques by Zaar to their friends and collegues.

…and Finally, in another vein, i am grateful for the Gift I have for being self employed, and thereby have the latitude to be available to my Family…be it taking trips to Singapore and Australia to visit my daughters, move my 3 kids in/out of their respective places of residence for the school years, or to be present to extended family as we celebrated  the  lives of those who had untimely passings, namely my brother in law and sister.

Yes, so much to be grateful for and so much to anticipate as we enter this New Year/New Decade.

I THANK YOU ALL for being part of my world, by virture of the fact that you’re reading this I consider you such …. and look forward to sharing more throughout this 2011.

Ruth

P.S. And if you care to share what you were grateful for in 2010 I would LOVE to know.

 

2011: My 3 words…

Created by my son Zach. On Facebook as Cake Lab.

This time last year I honed in on two words to serve as “pillars”  around which  I hoped to help my year materialize….those words being  Structure and Discipline.

How’d I do? Well, I could be really hard on myself and go on and on about what STILL needs to be addressed on these grounds,  ie, how it could be perceived that I failed, OR, I can cut myself some slack and objectively look at last year and say that, although worthy values to focus on, that there were just a few things that needed to be addressed first, BEFORE being able to put in place what I want/need to do for my life/my business by way of structure and discipline.  Yes, no cart before the horse.

So, per my most recent blog, 2010:Grateful For…, I am indeed feeling pretty darn good, and grateful, about this past year, and see that I have  a good solid base in place to move forward in 2011.  In retrospect the 3 words that would best describe the “essence” of last year would be determination, ownership and accountability.

My 3 words, borrowing from  Chris Brogan here by adding a 3rd word, for 2011 are…

Just me and my KIA...from here to there and there to here....

1. Focus:  Start something, finish it. Embrace full heartedly and with exuberance each “project,” job, task or even activity of leisure, that I set before myself. Structure my time.  Be effective and productive, whether on the road, about 50% of my time, or at my home. Have a win every day. Find a way to fit more into my days…be it for work and/or for personal pleasure. I believe focus is the key to this becoming my reality.

2. Presence:  Online… with my blogging, twitter, facebook, LinkedIn and Newsletters…all to let people get to know me/remember who I am, and lead them to my website, should they have an interest in buying Chinese Antiques. Simply keep it up.

To those that are already my customers…visiting them, calling them, emailing them, acknowledging them, promoting them.

...as seen in Better Homes & Gardens June 2010

To the world that doesn’t know me yet… to capitalize on the publicity that avails itself to me, through various connections made in the past….so that they can know me.

To my family and friends….to be fully present with them, giving them my undivided attention, when the time calls for such.

And to promote my personal sense of “presence” by eating well, sleeping enough, exercising, and reflecting.

3. Growth:  Personal growth and business growth…the former an ongoing process not to be denied…the latter, a reality I feel can be mine this 2011.

 Consumer confidence growing, happy customers coming back and new ones continue to find me.  The niche I’ve created for myself online is enhanced by the fact that that a growing number of  people are inclined to do thier shopping online… so much more than 10 years ago when we first established ourselves.

Growing in presence in High Point. Our first Market Square location, 2004.

Also, building on 6 years of growing presence in High Point and broadening my base with the development of ZAAR Design Center….offering our product, and that of others that have joined me, not only during High Point Markets, but year round.

Yes, I’m eager to embrace all that this coming year has to offer.

My world continues to grow and be brighter for the many wonderful people that have come my way, and continue to. And the fact that so much of this goodness is due to this business of buying and selling Chinese Antiques….well, what a great gig!

And now it’s time to get on with it….yes, blogs forthcoming.

… yes, that means showcasing my furniture in a myriad of settings, as represented by those that have cared to share photos…and that means introducing you to Designers that keep Antiques by Zaar at their fingertips when the need for a Chinese Antique rolls around…and that means giving you highlights on Events I’ll be attending/hosting, books I’ll be reading/listening to and, and, and …..you get the drift.

Peace, joy and prosperity…may they  be yours this 2011.

Ruth

P.S. And if you have YOUR  THREE WORDS for this coming year….yes, I’d LOVE to know what they are.

 

Chinese Antique Furniture: Fresh infusion en route!

CD 54 Armoire

 

I just LOVE starting the new year, as we have for the past 10 years, with a new shipment of Chinese Antiques, to add to our offerings.

And I LOVE this  platform of a blog, combined with Facebook, LInkedIn , etc, to further spread the good news of it’s pending arrival.

Am including here a smattering of what is on this container, to whet your appetite…

Of course you can view all incoming by going to this link, or go to my website to view current items in stock, which are sorted by catagory.

SOLD!!!!

Yes, 60 plus new stock numbers are wending thier way from China to the States, with first destination point being my warehouse in High Point NC. Final destination points for all pieces to be determined by my customers, BUT know 3 are already heading to Rochester NY!

NOTE: When you click on the enlargement for the incoming items you will see dimensions and retail prices noted. Designers, be sure to ask me about Trade Discounts.

A 30% non refundable deposit will secure the piece as yours, and as such will note it  as SOLD. Balance is due when shipment lands and we’re ready to ship to you/your client.

Container is due to arrive early Februray, just before Chinese New Year!

Contact me, ruth@antiquesbyzaar.com or toll free at 1 866 868 9227/cell 207 838 2675, for further details…or leave a comment on this blog, or on facebook…whichever venue works for you.

Happy Shopping and look forward to hearing from you!

Ruth

CD 49 Console

 Click here to view all consoles on my website.

CD 36 Drums

 Click here to view my large selection of Home Accents.

CD 19 Loveseat

Click here to go to seating section on my website. 

CD 13 Large Dark Natural Sideboard

Click here to view all sideboards on my site.

 

Chinese Antique Furniture/Designer Meg Braff

Meg Braff, of Meg Braff Interiors

Meg Braff, the heart, soul, and name behind New York based Meg Braff Interiors…AND happy Antiques by Zaar customer since October 2007, has recently had her work featured in the December 2010 issue of Coastal Living…a project where she did what she loves to do…infuse a bit of Asian into the schema.

In her own words 

 ” I love using Asian pieces in my projects. They add warmth and style to the space. They also mix well with English and European furniture and give a wonderful sophisticated and eclectic look. “

Thrilled that Meg has established a relationship with Antiques by Zaar, and that as such, two of our bamboo pieces, namely a bamboo altar table, and bamboo coffee table, were poised to be part of her Bermuda Villa project, as is beautifully depicted here.

Below please enjoy further examples of  Meg accenting her rooms with a touch of Asian, followed by links to where you can find similar pieces on the Antiques by Zaar website.

Some great bookcases can be found here.

Click here to view what we have for consoles, and here for Chinese Antique Altar Tables.  

Click here to view Chinese Antique Sideboards available at Antiques by Zaar.

Click here to see what we have to offer in Chinese Antique Coffee Tables.

Click here to view our collection of Chinese Antique Chairs.

Thank you Meg…..

for allowing me to share these photos with my audience of readers and look forward to  working with you further on your projects, as a source for your touch of Asian.

Ruth

P.S. If you want to read more on Meg’s Bermuda makeover, you should check out the wonderful and warm Manner of Style blog, dated 12/3.

 

Chinese Scroll Tables come Western Cocktail Table

…and, btw,  Designer Laura Kirar to present in High Point, at the High Point Design Center’s Unity in Design Event…details below.

In the May 2010 edition of  Elle Decor you will find Elle Decor’s Guide to the “Top 10 Cocktail Tables” , page 106, with designers Laura Kirar of Tru Design,  and Ernest de la Torre, of De La Torre Design Studio, commenting on the magazines selection.

Not sure how many people realize that although long low tables have been found in Asian homes literally for centuries,  that  it wasn’t until the early 20th Century that such became a living room essential in the West. That room where  casual seating/entertaining  became more formalized and  a place for drinks, flowers, books and even casual dining required, what has now become the cocktail table.

I love the fact that the origin for our staple hails from the Far East, with this particular design, of the scroll table, being mimicked, as depicted above, (doesn’t Laura grace that table beautifully?) with the very modern white lacquer piece, as available at  Shine by S.H.O.

Commonly known as a “musician’s table” these tables, which hail from the Shan Dong province implement the characteristic Chinese dovetail joinery to create the smooth “bend” in the wood.  Typically  found in black or red lacquer, or a honey tone.

Here,  Antiques by Zaar customer, Shaunda Warren has used her red scroll in her Feng Shui room… a place she calls her own, to reflect and meditate, and in her words…

 ”I entirely LOVE the red scroll table! It is an incredibly perfect fit, in the spot in my reading room–just as I suspected it would be!  (…amazingly modern feeling, but in a classic way)  It has sort of a quiet, artsy edge to it, that feels wonderfully ”meditative” in my space! 
Love it-Love it-Love it!
Shaunda in TX

Click here to view other aspects of Shaunda’s personal retreat in her home. We should ALL have such a place in our homes… Thanks for sharing Shaunda!

Should you be interested in locating such a piece for your home, please check out our coffee table  section on our site.

On another note, should you want some good feng shui advise, be sure to follow my dear friend Katy Allgeyer’s  blog called Feng Shui by Fish Girl. You also want to check out Katy’s website…aside from being an expert in Feng Shui she is also  a very talented artist.

ATTENTION ALL DESIGNERS:

 Save the Date

February 9-11, 2011!

High Point Design Center is planning thier next Unity in Design Event…and guess who is one of the designers slated for the Keynote Panel?  None other than Laura Kirar, the designer who contributed to this Elle Decor article I just referred to above.

If interested in meeting Laura, I know I am,  and hearing her speak, please join us in February in High Point NC. Online registration is available by clicking here.

Or for more details on agenda, speakers, or the organization itself, visit www.highpointdesigncenter.com

I personally look forward to participating in this event as a member of the High Point Design Center. This will be my 3rd year wending my way to NC in Feb for UNITY,  and simply an event I look forward to every year…benefitting my self and my business.

Ruth

P.S. Welcome all designer bloggers to spread the word!

 

Console Tables:Chinese or Modern/Simple Elegance

It would be again that Elle Decor, this time the March 2010 issue,  would serve me well as backdrop for what I was looking for by way of drawing parallels with my beloved Asian antiques.

And in this issue Designers Elaine Griffin, Antiques by Zaar customer since 2005, and Todd Alexander Romano, were called on for input on, you got it, the Top 10 Console Tables.

Of the Preston Console Table, by Jonathan Adler, and which Elaine is perched on in above photo, says Romano  ”This is a classic design with a twist. It recalls a traditional Chinese altar table, but being wrapped in mock croc give it a bit of whimsy.”

And Elaine quips on the Murry Console, shown here, by Duane Modern, “Cute!. The rounded leg and lip recall T.H. Robsjohn-Gibbings, but the chinoiseire apron gives it an Asian flair.”

It is beginning to see that even in “non Asian” pieces, such as these modern consoles, that there remains an influence of Asian…just seems no escaping it.

These tables are lovely in their modernity, but should you enjoy the allure of having an antique in place, then you might want to know you can consider such, rather affordably I might add, at, yes, shamelessly  promoting here, Antiques by Zaar…..as below customers have done.

Cynthia Mason Interiors,  Happy Antiques by Zaar customer since February 2008,  considers the style used here as “neo traditional” , blending fresh ideas with time-honored elements.

And in the words of Kevin Mac Nair, Antiques by Zaar customer since March 2009…

“ I had been looking for years for the right piece to accent my foyer, and purchased this classic console in 2010 online from Antiques by Zaar….and all I can say is that it is simply perrrrrrfect!

It’s sleek yet sophisticated styling is cheerful and welcoming with a fantastic blend of warm sienna and ochre, with just a hint of orange. Its statement is at once austere yet powerful with its’ appetizingly, massive thick top.

 I’ve  complemented it with a hand-carved,18th century 22 carat, gilt & stippled Florentine mirror in an area where guests may find some extra closet space to hang a coat or sweater, etc. I absolutely LOVE my console!”

Thanks Ruth~~

…and thank you Kevin.

Of course we have a delightful selection of Chinese consoles in our collection, available to you for your shopping pleasure. Click here to view all.

P.S. A seperate blog on consoles which feature drawers will be forthcoming…

Click here to read a previous blog posting on Cynthia Mason Interiors, formerly Interiors Decorating Den, and Antiques by Zaar.

Click here to read a previous blog posting re my ongoing relationship with Elaine Griffin.

…and if you google Elaine Griffin, Todd Alexander Romano and Cynthia Mason Interiors you will surely be impressed by the many magazines they’ve been featured in, the accolades given them and the numerous blogs written about them.

 

P.S. On Chinese Consoles

I was first drawn to this photo by the usage of the Chinese cracked ice carved screens, but then saw yet another great application of a straightlined console in place.

The dark tone of wall, floor and console merged such that there was a seamless transition from floor to wall, including this accent piece of furniture to serve as home for fresh flowers, drawing your eye to that single pop of color. Effect is lovely.

So, yes, some people, like those that inhabit this Manhatten apartment, featured in Elle Decor, March 2010, starting on page 129, it was a love of Asian arts and culture that spurred the design team of Roman and Williams to infuse the apartment just so.

Referring again to the Top 10 Console List, page 67 same issue, a High Console in metal by Bottega Veneta, I can’t help but, again, although not referenced in the comments on this particular console, see the parellell in style from the Chinese version, or is it more aptly put that this is a version of the original Chinese?, as shown above…..and as shown in pieces below, that I have available in my collection.

View this, and all other items en route on latest shipment, by clicking here.

BD 10 black lacquer console can be found on my website here.

…..and CC 26, and all other consoles can be found by clicking here.

Thanks for letting me share this with you…..

Ruth

 

“Live Well”

…heading from the Calendar New Year into the Lunar Chinese New Year, Feb 4th, as we are, thought still in keeping to offer the below “tips”, which are timeless, and good things for us to keep in mind….for A New Year, no matter when such starts for you.

 

Tips for a Powerful New Year

1. Take a 10-30 minute walk every day. And while you walk, smile. It’s the ultimate anti-depressant.

2. Sit in silence for at least 10 minutes each day….my day just jump starts when I take this time to slow down and be in my quiet

3. When you wake up in the morning complete the following statement, “My purpose is to __________ today.”

4. Spend more time with people over the age of 70 and under the age of 6.

5. Eat more foods that grow on trees and plants and eat less foods that are manufactured in plants…if only I could follow my son’s fine example!

6.  Clear the clutter from your house your car, you desk and let new flowing energy into your life…working on it….never ending it seems.

7. Don’t waste your precious energy on gossip, issues of the past, negative thoughts or things you can’t control. Instead invest your energy in the positive present moment.

8. Realize that life is a school and you are here to learn. Problems are simply part of the curriculum that appear and fade away like algebra class but the lessons you learn will last a lifetime.

9. Eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince and dinner like a college kid with a maxed out credit card.

10. Smile and laugh more.

11. Life isn’t fair, but it’s still good.

12. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.

13. You don’t have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.

14. Don’t compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about.

15. Burn the candles, use the nice sheets, and the fancy dinnerware-don’t save it for a special occasion. Today is special.

16. No one is in charge of your happiness except you.

17. Frame every so-called disaster with these words: “In five years, will this really matter?”

18. Forgive.

19. What other people think of you is none of your business.

20. Time heals almost everything. Give time time.

21. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.

22. Stay in touch with your friends.

23. Get rid of anything that isn’t useful, beautiful or joyful.

24. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.

25. THE BEST IS YET TO COME!

26. No matter how bad you think you feel, get up, dress up and show up.

27. DO THE RIGHT THING!

28. If you are lucky enough to have them still with you…call your mother and father often.

29. Each night before you go to bed complete the following statements: “I am thankful for ____________.” Today I accomplished____________.”

30. Enjoy the ride. Rembembr that this is not Disney World and you certainly don’t want a fast pass.

YOU ONLY HAVE ONE RIDE THROUGH LIFE SO MAKE THE MOST OF IT AND ENJOY THE RIDE

…unlike this one @ Disney, which yes, we got a Fast Pass to…

Happy Day ALL!!!!!!

 

 

Not really sure who to give credit to for this, as don’t have an author on the copy I printed off from an email….

 

 

Unity in Design: Dragonfly Designs Presents @ ZAAR!

 

Yes, it’s time for the Annual Unity in Design Event, click here to conveniently register online,  in High Point NC, and that means I’ll be wending my way there to participate as a member of the High Point Design Center, for the 3rd year in a row.I love how the collaborative efforts of the many Design Associations involved culminate  in making this the enjoyable and educational networking event the success it is each and every year.  And now with a Trade Show, 2nd annual,  a vital part of UNITY, it simply continues to grow in it’s impact to ALL…. 

Designers and vendors alike are given this wonderful opportunity to make themselves known to each other and the energy that is transmitted as relations grow is no less than inspiring.  It’s like a “Mini Market”, tailor made for those that find that they are able to attend….

This year I am particularly excited as I, on behalf of Antiques by Zaar/ZAAR Design Center, plan to host a luncheon/presentation @ our new showroom/warehouse, on the Thursday of UNITY.

Bobbie Cox of DragonFly Designs, and I, first “met” on LinkedIn. Not long following we would meet in “real” when introduced by a mutual friend, Davetta Moore, at an IFDA sponsored luncheon during High Point Furniture Market.

Our mutual enthusiasm for our online introduction being cemented by our physical introduction, served as a bond as we exchanged cards, offering synopsis’ of our respective businesses.

ZAAR Design Center, was but a “twinkle in my eye” when I met Bobbie as she enthusiastically shared with me the fact that in addition to working as a designer, that she also made herself available for speaking engagements.

Long story short, I am so pleased to share with my world that, following lunch, catered by our friends at EmeryWood Cafe, Bobbie will present to those that join us @ ZAAR…..focusing on the value of the relations we make for our clients, ourselves and our businesses.

It will be a Great Day….good food, good food for thought, exceptional shopping, all in the warm atmosphere, will work on warm “temps”, of the ZAAR Showroom @ 220 Feld Ave, High Point…less than 3 miles down South Main, from IHFC.

ZAAR Design Center is pleased to be the home for the following companies….

Bellascenda

Kat Burki

Touchwood UK

Vanderveer Imports

….and, of course, Antiques by Zaar

Should I have enticed you to join us, simply register to attend our luncheon at time of registration. Or if you want more details, contact me at ruth@antiquesbyzaar.com, or leave a comment on this blog, or call me @ 207 838 2675.

Look forward to hearing from you/seeing you!  Ruth

 

The Mill House Inn: Using Mitchell Gold,Palachek & Chinese Antiques…

… no, nobody does this mix better than Gary and Sylvia Muller, propreitors of the Mill House Inn/Graybarn Cottage,   located in pituresque East Hampton.

Their love for this anchor in their decorating schema serves them just as well in their New Hampshire farmhouse (adding Stickley classics and French antiques to the mix) as it does in their Long Island retreat/place of business….which is a place well worth the visit for your next getaway.

I asked Sylvia for a note or two, to share with my world, with regards to their decorating philospophy..the below which she sent to me, in honor of said request. Please enjoy the below…with comments from yours truly in italics.

Antiques by ZAAR has been a cornerstone in our “design family” for almost as long as they have been online for business. Ruth and Mark work with us to find the perfect pieces for our inn and our home and have become part of our family of friends in the process.

At The Mill House Inn, Gary and I have worked hard to create an ambiance of comfortable luxury.  We design everything ourselves, from bathroom tiles and fixtures to the room decor, the amazingly comfortable bedding, and the organic soaps, lotions and fragrances we use in the rooms. The aim is that our guests should feel “at home” from the moment they enter the inn, and never want to leave…and trust me, this is true on both counts…from the feeling like you’re sleeping on a cloud, to the delectable breakfast laid out, to the cookies, coffee, and tea always there for you, to ALL the details they pay attention to…it truly is the getaway of all getaways.

Choosing the right mix of furniture and furnishings is crucial.  Each guest room is designed to evoke a story.  But we never want a room to feel “over decorated” or contrived. By mixing genres we make a room feel like it has evolved over a lifetime.

Our Captains Quarters Suite makes one dream of travels to exotic places in a bygone day… with Asian Antique furniture mixed with comfortable leather sofas, mica lights, maps of the China seas and Harpers Bazaar covers of the early steamship days. Add in a great iron bed, a couple of flat screen tvs, a gas fireplace and woven wood shades and you create a timeless and inviting environment.

Our Graybarn Cottage is an old barn with lots of character of it’s own.  We filled it with Asian pieces from Antiques by Zaar, slipcovered sofas and leather pieces from Mitchell Gold, leather chairs from Palacek, a custom ‘antiqued’ eight foot round table from Fishers in Sag Harbor, Kichler candelabras, Justice Design’s candle lamps, classic white dishes from Fishs Eddie, and my black & white photos of the beach, check out more of Sylvia’s photos on her blog Sylvia Walks,  to create a home that makes people go “wow!” when they walk in the door and never want to leave…

In our own home, Black Dog Farm, we have also used a mix of styles, incorporating our favorite  pieces from Antiques by ZAAR with comfortable leather sofas and chairs, early American pine, Stickley classics and French country antiques.  Click here to see further photos of Black Dog Farm.  It all works together and we never want to leave there either!

Having visited the Mill House Inn, Graybarn Cottage and the Black Dog Farm, I can vouch for the warmness that Gary and Syliva have as people, is reflected in the feeling you get immediately upon stepping into the door of any of these places of living/respite, that their hands have touched….their penchant for quality, great taste and detail, oh my, the details!, is unmatched. …and am so thrilled that they have provided me with this text and accompanying photos to serve as an example of how Chinese Antiques complement the classics.

Ruth

Click here to read previous posting I did on Mill House Inn.

 

Loving Chinese Accents in Home & Garden

Maria Hasenecz, the heart and soul of Livable Landscapes, based out of Wyndmoor PA,  first found Antiques by Zaar in 2007, at which time  she bought an unassming but pivotal piece, that being a black lacquered coffee table, for her living room,  which she  readily and enthusiastically shared  photos of such in place…which she also offered me to share  in the Home Gallery on my website.

When she called me earlier this year regarding a 2nd purchase, which requires a blog all of it’s own…now there’s a story! she shared with me her continued affection for her original purchase and how well it transitioned with her room as she slapped a coat of paint on the walls, reupholstered her sofa,  changed her curtains and accessories. Wow!

In Maria’s words… “I love how your Chinese pieces are timeless and will never go out of style. They add a global exotic feel, readily blend with a variety of other antique styles, while adding character to our room. It easily transitioned to our new decorative scheme”……

Maria’s personality, we’ve only “met” on the phone/email, but feel like “kindred Spirits“, is warm and effusive, as is evidenced in the lovely garden settings she creates for her clients…of course, throwing into her schema’s a dash of good “feng shui” as she positions a touch of the Orient in said settings…as they say…a picture is worth a thousand words….

 Be sure to fan Livable Landscapes on facebook AND gush over more photos there as well as on her website!

Ruth

 

Wayne Dyer: The POWER of Intention… Just “Do it!”

…on the road again, and, as usual, armed with a couple of books on CD. As I don’t make it a priority to set time aside to read, I look forward to listening to books whilst driving. And, as my “average”  day driving is about 6 hours, I’m given good time to get through a book or two…with ample talk time, but of course, interspersed with my time listening .

And, as is my habit, at least one of the books I’m armed with, I choose with intent for it to serve as inspiration to fuel me forward in my cause….AND, I love it when I’m not disappointed by my choice.  As I had listened to my first Dr. Wayne Dyer book in October (en route to my parent’s 60th anniversary), called Inspiration, Your Ultimate Calling…I was pretty sure I would be “good” when I chose (I rent for 1.00/2 weeks from my local library) yet another Wayne Dyer CD, entitled the Power of Intention.

Although I’m only half way through, will finish it on next leg of my trip on Monday, I am already feeling the empowerment he hopes to instill when people read/listen to his books, and thus my interest in sending this out as a “recommended read/listen”.

…for, although my “intention” to send this out will hold true, the fact remains that when I land in NC on Tuesday, that I will be hitting the ground running, in addition to Unity Event noted below, also have a container of merchandise landing AND a new member moving into ZAAR Design Center, and this would simply remain an intention and not a fulfilled one…and that would be a shame.

Yes, participating in the Unity in Design Event will have me flat out, and couldn’t be more excited for it, AND now, feeling very much that the energy I share with those that I come in contact with, is such that works to serve a greater good, and it just energizes me further.

So, for all Designers “intending” to attend the UNITY in Design Event but have yet to register, let me give you a venue here to do so by including link here to do a quick and dirty online registration, so you can fulfill that “intention” now. It is such an inspiring event, it would a shame for you not to make it….and you can sign up for  lunch @ ZAAR on Thursday here as well…no additional charge… it’s going to be so much fun…AND Inspiring, of course.

So, should you be inspired to purchase either the paper or DVD  version of Dr Dyer’s books, directly, you can do so by clicking the links below which will take you directly to Amazon. And, by purchasing by way of going through this link, a portion of said sale will go to Antiques by Zaar, as I’m set up as an Affiliate Member. Note that all proceeds from shopping through me to Amazon will go to the work of FIDA-PCH in Haiti.

 Audio  version

 Book  version

….and his other book of Inspiration, on just that, Inspiration…

   book version.

…..and audio version, for fellow road warriors.

So, to a good weekend to one and all. Won’t be writing over the weekend, taking it “off” for some couple time,  but hope to catch you on the flip side on Monday.

Ruth

 

February 2011 Trip Report: For the Love of Work,Family & Friends

A month ago today I packed my bags for what would be a month long road trip…..the impetus of said trip being a combination of personal and business matters, and which would add 5,000 miles onto my KIA and take me from my Maine home base to New York (3 stops), High Point NC, Ottawa Ontario and Montreal Quebec….and alot of places in between getting from here to there and back again.

So, here I am on the other side of what was a great trip, and am enjoying the “look back” as I share with my world some highlights below….and more specifically, at later dates….just  getting myself  back into the “blogosphere” here ….

Super Bowl Sunday @ Graybarn Cottage

…hosted by proprietors Gary and Sylvia Muller, customers/friends of Antiques by Zaar for almost 10 years now, was great.  How delightful to be invited to take in the Super Bowl, admitting here not a huge follower, just like to be part of the “event” that capsulates the season, with the Mullers and their friends…and see first hand how wonderful our altar works in their well appointed “cottage”.

  If you want to see more photos of Graybarn Cottage or the Mill House Inn…or look into either place as a venue for your next pampered getaway, simply go to www.millhouseinn.com .

Unity in Design Event: High Point NC

This was my 3rd year participating in the HPDC’s   “winter event” and ironically enough, each year the weather seems to be colder and colder AND definitely progressively more snow than one would expect to deal with in North Carolina. Thankfully the cold temperatures/tenuous road conditions didn’t get in the way of this event being the success it is each year.

ZAAR (Design Centre/Antiques by…)  took particular pleasure in hosting lunch/presentation in our chilly warehouse/showroom Thursday Feb 10th.  Hot dishes from Emerywood warmed our insides and Bobbie Cox of Dragonfly Designs enraptured her audience with her presentation.

Thank you ALL!  Bobbie, for offering such insight and having such an engaging presentation that was relevant  to those currently in the business and to those prospectives… yes, we were graced by presence of a lovely group of design students from Western Carolina University, and to the  gathering we had to take it all in. Also to members of the ZAAR Design Center for their help and participation, namely Vanderveer Imports, Kat Burki, Bellescenda, and Touchwood. Click here for luncheon photos, just a few…was too busy chatting up….

                                                                                                                      

After a busy and uplifting 3.5 days in North Carolina, it was back to New York for a few days…with one of the highlights of my time working from there being a visit with Antiques by Zaar customer/friends Catherine Kovins and Thom Januaz .  I love it when “lunch” becomes an event that takes you right to dinner…yes, that is how the time flowed visiting, talking and simply enjoying the face to face interaction as catylst to recent years communicating on the phone/via email.  I very much look forward to our next meeting, which we are hoping to do during Asia Week in NYC.

Black lacquered sideboard and mirror, purchased from AbyZaar, worked too perfectly in the Master Suite of Catherine and Thom’s home. Click here to view other photos of how they mixed Asian in their gorgeous home.

The wedding of my nephew Casey Wall to Cheryl Grossman, was the impetus for my trip taking me to Ottawa Ontario.  As I am the only sibling that is “away”, it is great to have such an oppotunity to catch up and celebrate…in some cases reconnecting with people I hadn’t seen in over 2 decades! Cheryl was the consumate blushing bride, could her smile have been any wider?, the service touching and the reception, held at the War Museum…well, a great party. Click here to view photos of the event.

Montreal and final trip to NY was for my family…returning one college daughter to McGill after a brief visit to Maine during her winter break, and 2nd daughter to NY to catch a plane to get back to finish her last semester at University of Western Ontario…2nd college graduation in 2 years, and 3rd one following next year. Oh my!

This but scratches the surface of the most recent run about and you’ll read about more in months to follow as Antiques by Zaar moves forward and my family moves around. Yes, Life is Good.

 

 

Scoring with SCORE: Delivering what they “Sell”

SCORE’S Mission Statement

To Deliver Expertise and Resources to Maximize the Success of Existing and Emerging Small Businesses.

 

….and that is exactly what my experience has been since I attended my first SCORE  workshop, on writing a business plan, last summer.

Following that most informative workshop I asked the presenter about securing someone to counsel me, as I worked to take my 10 year old business to the next level.  My understanding that such was available at no cost,  truth be told, it  just seemed too good to be true…but I had nothing to lose by exploring this venue.

 Long story short… the gentleman who presented the workshop was  true to his word and within a week one of the SCORE counsellors contacted me….the one he thought would work well for my particular needs.  We met shortly thereafter, and the rest is history. Nancy Strojny, who currently has her own consulting business and has a 20 plus year history with Proctor and Gamble, has become not only an indispensible resource for me, but also my cheerleader, reality checker and dear dear friend. We fit like a glove!

Yesterday I attended my 2nd SCORE workshop which served as a primer on using  Social Media and making it work for your business.  It was a cohesive and informative presentation made  by Nicki Hicks of flyte new media….touching all the major venues we as small business owners need to engage in to put our businesses “out there”….certainly a good launch pad for the many that attended that were either starting their own business, or working to understand the intricacies of facebook, blogging, twitter, linkedin etc. And although I do have a reasonable handle on this I walked away with tips/resources that I previously was unaware of.

I’m just over the top for an organization that delivers what it “sells”….and in this case what SCORE has to offer is either free or at a nominal charge.

If you are thinking of starting a business or already have a business, and are looking for some professional advise, you can’t lose by connecting with the fine folks at SCORE…at least that is my experience and therein my testimonial.

In Maine alone there are 7  SCORE chapters and there are 10,000 nationwide….just as an FYI.

Thank you Jane Pollak, for introducing this organization to me by way of your blog posting of Jan 25, 2010….Jane being another resource, specifically for Women Entrepeneurs, which is of great value to you and the growth of your business. At minimum you should follow her blog. And if you want more, her book Soul Proprieter, is one I’ve listened to repeatedly on my road trips….which are numerous.

  Click image to go directly to Amazon and purchase paper version.

…and this image if you want to listen to the book.

 Love love love sharing something, SCORE/Jane, which offers so much value to my many fellow entrepeneurs working their passion, and could use some handles…which we all do, eh?

Happy Day all.

…and if you have a resource to share that has served you well, do just that…share.  Look forward to hearing from you.

Ruth

 

Online Shopping/Online Reviews

The numbers are  growing, and will continue to grow,  for people that are shopping online. We have moved from catalogues to the computer and in order for this this portal to continue to serve us all well it  is a given  that our online shopping/selling experience  maintain a level of integrity for this venue to continue on succesfully.

As consumers we used to rely on reports by the Better Business Bureau to give us handles on the validity of any particular business, especially ones that are we were unfamiliar with, but now, with the world wide web, this information, including that of the BBB, is right at our fingertips.

If leary, the easiest thing to do is google….”company name online review”.  If there is something bad to be said about the particular company in question, you will readily see it pop up on the first page.

Also, Google the name of the person you are communicating with.  If you can’t get a full name put up your red flag.

If you are the patient type, and the business is doing what it should to be out there on social media, this reletively recent phenomenon that serves the consumer so very well,  check the assorted portals and ensure a consistency in presention of the company and the person representing the company.

Asking for referrals  isn’t a bad thing, but really…is anyone going to give you a bad referral?

Well, I take that back.  From a customer of mine… One company gave a prospective client (her)  a list of names of supposed satisfied customers. When this persons red flag started going up they started calling the names on said list…many of which had never even done business with the company in question! Guess they didn’t expect the customer to actually make the calls.

The beautiful thing is that there are many many more people out there doing good business than those that aren’t and no need to let the few that aren’t harm us.  Fact is that we, ALL, buyers AND sellers, simply are required  to exercise diligence and responsibility in our transactions, and the fact is that if the majority weren’t doing so, commerce on the web wouldn’t be the growing success it is…ie, we really can trust each other!

I for one am grateful for the opportunity to be part of this virtual shopping mall, coupled as it is, with its own consumer awareness board which just continues to grow in depth and breadth as social media cements itself as part of the fabric of everyone’s online shopping experience.

If YOU are unfortunate enough to have a bad experience, it does behoove you to share this with the world as way of warning to others….and similarly it goes without saying a good review goes the same distance…just in a different direction.

Happy Internet Shopping!

Ruth

P.S. In my early blogging days I did do an entry entitled Google Me! There you go…

Ruth Olbrych

 

The World’s Largest Chest of Drawers: Housing Chinese Antiques for Market!

….of course this would be  in the epicenter of High Point North Carolina, the furniture capital of the world, and Antiques by Zaar is excited to be showcasing product from this infamous landmark during the upcoming Spring High Point Market…..with balance of collection available to view at the ZAAR Design Center @ 220 Feld Ave.

Talk about a drawing card eh? Gotta say I love it. Centrally located at 508 Hamilton, this 38′ tall historical structure was built in the 1920′s and served as the towns bureau of information. …and has been listed on the map for NC attractions for decades…per below vintage postcard.

Currently owned by my friend Pamela Stern, she and I mutually felt that placing and selling the Chinese antiques in the Worlds Largest Chest of Drawers was just what needed to be done for this Spring’s Market….breathing new life into this iconic structure.

Pamela, well familiar with Chinese Antiques, and is just about as passionate about them as I am, will be serving as the Antiques by Zaar sales rep during Market….and also serve to answer all your questions about her historical piece of real estate.

So, if you’re going to be in High Point next month, be sure to check out how great American history and Chinese history complement each other in this setting….yes, possibly representative of the changing face of High Point?

I.E. Have you heard about not one, but two Antique Centers, opening up for Market? One in Suites at Market Square and the 2nd on Russell Ave????

 Will be open 9:00-5:00 from April 1-7, as will ZAAR Design Center.

Ruth

 

Spring 2011 High Point Market Highlights

I can’t believe that it’s been 7 years since I’ve been wending my way to High Point NC for the Furniture Market….and my delight in being present there for my business there simply continues to grow.

Am thrilled to say that I, and many others that I talked to as well, had a wonderful Market….what great news that is to spread!

But High Point Market is so much more than a venue for buyers and sellers to converge and do business, and part of my growing delight has been in the programs that are offered and the insight I gain in the industry by attending such.

Only recently came aware of the fact that there is a pre Market kick off  Prayer Breakfast prefacing each Market.  The fact that Kathy Ireland was the guest speaker a couple of years ago was admittedly what had enticed me to attend the 7:00 am program, yes, ouch,  the first time.  This year I waffled on going but in the end did and was delighted and inspired by the key-note speaker’s presentation as put forth by Aminy Audi, president of Stickley Furniture….a struggling brand that she and her husband took over in 1976, and breathed new life into. She , as businesswoman, philanthropist, educator, mother and wife, was  the

package deal….real, warm, engaging, humorous, spiritual, enormously respected, and inspirational. Yes, glad I got myself out of bed for that early morning presentation.

The breakfast meeting that I won’t miss attending is that which is sponsored by WITHIT. This is a double win as not only is there always a great speaker, but it is a chance to give hugs all around, to my fellow WITHIT members, which I am sure to see there. Read WITHIT Market recap here.

This year, designer and author Thomas Jayne, was the guest speaker…engaging his audience fully as he highlighted various rooms in his recently published book, which were available for to purchase and be autographed following said presentation.

                                              Click image to go directly to Amazon to purchase your copy of “The Finest Rooms”

You can also count on IFDA sponsoring a luncheon/speaker that delights and commands a full house. This year it would be TV designer/personality  Ty Pennington who blew in and kept his audience , small compared to the millions he draws on during his Extreme Home Makeover’s, enthralled.

…and MUST include here a note regarding the most recent episode  of Extreme Home Makeover, I watched with my husband, where the  Carl Hall family of Wichita KS , had their life turned upside down when the husband/father of 4 was injured in a car accident a year ago, rendering him completly paralyzed from the shoulder’s down. Not upside right, but monumental strides made by the Extreme Team, coupled with that of a very supportive and loving community, was put in place to improve the lot of this family, and witnessing this all was touching to say the least.

Attending these events is a recent “icing on my cake” part of Market for me. The after hour events have always been a must do,at minium for food and drink to fuel on,  part of Market as well …the trick being deciding which of the many that are slated, to attend, as they are always a great venue to meet and greet…fellow exhibitors, past customers, those people that we count on to do all the behind the scenes work to “make” Market happen, as well as new people.

Aaron Cabeen of Cabeen Originals, falls into the latter catagory, being a young gentleman from Chatanooga TN, who I was introduced to by John Strauss, of John Strauss Furniture, who I initially “met” on Twitter, and have since fostered a friendship, and who now has a sampling of his product in the ZAAR Design Center!

This was a debut Market for Cabeen Originals and having a piece stage centre on the Market edition of Home Accents Today certainly added to his “entree” to High Point Market. How to go Aaron!

…and as I shared with Aaron,Antiques by Zaar enjoyed a HATcover as well, as shown here, in October 2006. Thank YOU HAT folks! 

NOTE: That little green console shown here was THE hot hot item for me this Spring 2011 Market…selling even the stock that has not yet arrived!

This is but a wide swoosh of all that transpired during this most recent “6 Days that Matter”….and now that I have shared this with my virtual world I can go on with the many, ok, too many, things that I have burning a fire under me, that are exciting developments for Antiques by Zaar.

Suffice it to say….the showroom looked great…. and those that visited enjoyed viewing not only my collection but also samplings from Fortunata, Touchwood, Bellascenda and Kat Burki, the feeling all about was up beat, and even with a wide range of temperatures outside, the pervasive tone was warm and enveloping.

Feel free to visit Market and ZAAR Design Center by checking out some photos here. AND, if you didn’t get to see us during Market, don’t sweat it, as we are open year round…9:00-5:00 the 2nd Wed of every month, or by appointment.

Thanks to ALL who are part of what makes the High Point Furniture Market a great event!

Ruth

 

April Showers across the miles…

Yes, rain of all sorts, ran across my path as I added another 4,500 plus miles on my trusty KIA this past 38 day stint on the road…yes, that would be almost 55,000 miles in past 22 months… with major stopping points being New York, High Point NC, Washington DC, Montreal Quebec and Kitchener Ontario….again, this being a combo trip for personal and business reasons, and why it being such a lengthy time away from my current “home front”.

Attending the Kat Burki, one of my Zaar Design Center “trade partners”  store opening in Westport CT, was the major impetus for my 3/24 departure, which I wrote about in this blog… which FYI, went out as from ZAAR Design Center, rather than Antiques by Zaar, through which I’m trying to have a further reach, and why you might not have seen it, and so am  linking here for ya’ll.

And from there it was on to High Point, NC …not only where I warehouse my inventory, but also from where I show for the High Point Market. I was able to capsulize this in this missive…at least the “extras” that are part of Market.

Just to add here that the more entrenched I get in doing my business from High Point the more pleased I am that we made the life saving decision to move our warehouse from Maine to NC back in 2007. What a great proactive move that was!

After an invigorating time working Market it was back to New York, to meet up with my husband and take a little mini vacation to Washington DC. Have to say I quite enjoyed being the tourist. We did come across some bloomng cherry blossom trees as we toured about, in what wasn’t the most appealing weather…per the title of this blog, the rain followed me here as well. But no raining on my parade. We had a good time taking in various attractions and being reminded of the history of this great country and what it took for us to get from there to here…and yes, I do say this as an accepted foreigner residing here as a permanent resident.  Happy to share photos here. Was reminded further of my interest in my own family history which is on my “bucket list” of things to do when….

Back to work from New York for a few days before hitting the road to Montreal to pick up my youngest, who just finished up her 3rd year at McGill.  She was my all star hockey player in high school and maintains an interest in the sport, so it was a delight that the timing of this pick up would coincide with a quarter final play off game between the Montreal Canadiens and the Boston Bruins. …host team unfortunately losing in overtime ….but the experience was good….and yes, dotted with rain! Pix  here.

Easter weekend in NY ,more rain, where we would enjoy a typical pre show lunch at Juniors,  seeing Wonderland on Broadway, ALWAYS LOVE Broadway,  a little outlet shopping, and a peak into the Disney store, cupcakes at CRUMBS, we must test the ”competition”,   and a delightful Easter brunch in Southampton….and then it would be off to Kitchener Ontario, where I would hang my hat/visit with  family and friends  for a couple of days while elder of my daughters finished her final exam….two graduated, one to go!

….drop my girls off in NY, so they could catch a flight for a week long trip sister trip to Disney…graduation gift…and the final leg to Maine on a bright and sunny May 1st!

Landed. Changing gears. Enjoying the sunshine and the green. Enjoying NOT getting into my car for an extended time, meaning anywhere from 6-10 hours…giving it, and me, a break. And now time to write write write….well, until I head for a quick trip, this time my KIA will rest as will need small U HAUL, to Montreal on Sunday.  Let’s hope for sunshine eh?

P.S. Sun was shining when I started this yesterday….yes, raining today….oh well. :(   As my friend commented to my note “rain rain go away….”  May showers bring June flowers. OK.

 

WITHIT: WOW for our Colorful NYC Inside Design Event!

 

For those of us that took the bait to “REGISTER NOW” for the 5th annual WITHIT/Women in the Home Furnishings Industry Today,  sponsored tour, we were not to be disappointed….and having attended same tour last year, you can read about that here, I already anticipated coming away enthralled and delighted, as certainly was the case….

Per the comprehensive brochure/itinerary we all received, the tour this year was “woven together through the universal language of color“.  The “color journey” for the group began with the individual visions of the Kips Bay Showhouse designers

….the Saturday tour, which I chose to not  attend, for I had started my own personal colorful start to the weekend by tripping over my own feet Friday night, which left me with the gift of a sprained ligament. I was responsible and kept said foot up on ice all day Saturday and thus was able to join the group for the following two days.

Sunday, on a pair of crutches, my husband escorted me into the city, from Long Island, where I met up with the group at the Javits Center, where, like last year, we would visit assorted exhibits, at the ICFF /International Contemporary Furniture Fair….again, the presentation given by various exhibitors, particularly  in the Spanish Pavillion was most interesting.

Although the draw to visit the Cooper -Hewitt National Design Museum was the exhibition of “Art and Fashion by Sonia Delaunay”, have to say that visiting the colorful and exquisite Van Cleef jewellery collection had us all rather enraptured as well. Thank you to Mary Leigh, our 2011 WITHIT prez, for  chauffeuring me in the wheel chair I was offered and decided to take the break for my wounded wing.

… the finale for this jam packed day would be a cocktail party preceding a most personable presentation, with q and a time following, by Wendy Goodman, New York Magazine Design Editor, who shared with us her lifetime relationship with the iconic Gloria Vanderbilt, one built on trust, and which thusly led Gloria to  collaborate with  Wendy to do the first and only authorized illustrated biography of this legendary designer, decorator, aritist, model, muse, heiress and author. What an absolute “inside design” treat! Each of us left the evening fully enthralled…AND with an autographed copy of this hot off the press treasure trove of insight and infamous photos.

 Click image to go directly to Amazon and purchase.

….and to think we still had another full day orchestrated specifically for us….

Monday, Monday…

Armed with one crutch, yes, graduating daily, and an umbrella, I joined the group for a day FULL of color…something for everyone…starting with personalized tour of M & S Schmalberg, a “cottage industry” in the heart of NY, a place from whence delicate and incricate colorful floral renditions are created. Truly amazing to be taken through the proccess from start to finish, from the place where flowers have been produced over the years, for famous designers…making a particular splash as a result of exposure on the long running Sex in the City show.

From there to a delectable lunch and informative 2012 Trend and Style report at Stylesight….and from there right to Material Connexion, an amazing  international material resource library, showcasing literally thousands of materials..

…and from there  to the New York Design Center, specifically to tour the newly opened 1st Dibs Showroom…. over 30,000 feet of product, as represented by assorted businesses which also have their product available in one large/growing convenient online location, called, yes, 1st Dibs.

The tour was hosted by Traditional Home Magazine’s  art and antique editor,  Doris Athineos and Jon Walker, their home furnishings manager….

Enjoyed chatting up with Jon as I hobbled through the showroom….sharing with him my long time affilitiation with Suysel Cunningham, of  the design team of Tilton Fenwick, who recently enjoyed accolades from Traditional Home as one their top 20 designers, AND, designed the Traditional Home vignette for recent Design on a Dime, fundraising event, see details in the Material Girls blog,  AND which Antiques by Zaar contributed a etagere, as shown in above photo, that sold immediately. Wonderful on all fronts!

Further, it was an absolute delight to meet in person Doris Athineos, who readily recalled the 2008 article she produced, “It’s Good To Be Ching”, which Antiques by Zaar was part of said feature.

Needless to say this visit was highlight of the day…but it wasn’t over yet….

It would be off to not only visit the newly opened Lillian August store, but to have a cocktail reception, followed by an indepth view into how it all came to be and the exciting things ahead. Thank you to Skye Kirby, VP of Stores and Marketing….it was more than informative, it was delightful…and I look forward to following the further growth of this inspiring creative entity.

…. group dinner at City Crab, was a wonderful wonderful way to cap off the night of our “inside design” event, which we ALL gushed about respectively over delectable seafood dishes.

Thank you WITHT, for orchestrating this… and in particular Betty Lyn Eller and her committee, Jana Platina-Phipps, Deborah Klein, Laura Newman, Janine Finkle and Katie Mutushak.

Speaking for myself, my enthusiasm as an ambassador for WITHIT, has been fueled….my insight into Design has been enhanced, and my passion for what I do and the people I’m able to meet as I go about my business, spur me on.

Yes, I am on fire. Thank you, thank you thank you. This is my recap/testimonial, and I invite other event attendees to offer same as we spread the WITHIT word and grow our numbers….each and every member offering something special, one to the other. All good.

Ruth

P.S. Limited photos as was constricted to using the camera on my phone, travelled light, but check out what I did garner, here, on my facebook page.

 

Tilton Fenwick,Traditional Home and Antiques by Zaar

Just love love love how my world keeps getting smaller and larger,  all at the same time…

Designer Suysel Cunningham first shopped Antiques by Zaar in 2005….for the clients of her then employer, Markham Roberts, and also for herself personally.  And during the past 5 years, while she commited to her new role as mother, I would keep her abreast of our activities by way of our online newsletter….

You can imagine my delight when I received an email from Suysel a couple of months ago, asking, first if I remembered her…yes, of course! and then about a piece for a client…to find that she had re entered the working world as a designer, but this time for herself, with best friend Anne …forming the newly established and widely touted NY based design firm Tilton Fenwick.

It wouldn’t take the folks at Traditional Home magazine long to start paying attention to the work of Tilton Fenwick, not only picking them as one of 20 top designers for 2011, but  further, having them design the Traditional Home sponsored vignette at the recent, fabuously successful,  Design on A Dime fundraising event supporting New Yorks Charity Housing Works.

Antiques by Zaar was thrilled to contribute to said event by way of a etagere that was part of the “design bloggers dream office” …a piece which sold readily, yeah!

For additional photos/press on ALL contributions to the Design on A Dime event, visit the most impressive press page of Tilton Fenwick…great photos/great insight/great inspiration.

So, yes, Traditional Home is certainly a fan of Tilton Fenwick…placing them with 19 other expressive and impressive designers.

It is now time for the general public to cast their vote for who they feel merits the postion of TOP Designer for 2011…and thus, the voting begins…or should I say, has started, and is going on until July 12!

It’ easy,  and you can vote DAILY until 7/12.  Click here, to view the entire line up and here to specifically cast your vote for Tilton Fenwick, as I have done, and intend to do numerous times…with great joy.

…oh, and did you hear, Traditional Home continues to work with Tilton Fenwick, as they’ve  invited the design team to do a room for the Southampton Showhouse this summer. Go girls! Can’t wait to visit…

Personally I couldn’t be more thrilled to have fostered relationships with both Tilton Fenwick and Traditional Home, over the past several years, and look forward to growing such in years to come.

a little of my past presence in Traditional Home…

In October 08, we were featured in an article “It’s Good To Be Ching”.…and last week, during my WITHIT Inside Design tour, which I gushed about here,  I had the absolute pleasure of meeting Art and Antique editor Doris Athineos, who produced this article…felt like I was meeting an old friend.

April 2010 we were again included with a feature on designerKat Burki, who had placed an Antiques by Zaar piece in that years Southampton showhouse. Blogged about that here.

It is so inspiring to me to be working with designers of such acclaim, and such an honor to be affiliated with them in a publication that serves its audience so well…yes, in print.

To our continuous future.

Ruth

P.S. Don’t forget to vote at Traditional Home for TiltonFenwick.

 

Wednesday June 8th: OPEN in TWO Locations etc…

As member of the High Point Design Center, Antiques by Zaar participates by being OPEN for each “Designer Wednesday” Event, which is held the 2nd Wed of each month…less July, April and October.

Wanted you to know a couple of things regarding these dates….

Warehouse/Showroom: 220 Feld Ave, High Point, NC

 …where you have the BONUS of viewing/shopping the Antiques by Zaar online store in person, but also have opportunity to purchase product from the following companies, who show with me.

Fortunata,  Cabeen Originals, Touchwood UK, Bellascenda and Kat Burki

….Should you prefer the convenience of not leaving downtown High Point, you can also find us showing in the “World’s Largest Chest of Drawers“…an iconic and historic landmark in High Point, and easy to spot/find …just look for the 38′ tall bureau @ 508 North Hamilton.

…and while in the area you want to check out the newly opened Shane’s Collection on the corner of Main and Kivett, where a smattering of Antiques by Zaar pieces are also being presented in a delightful mix of furniture and accessories priced to sell.

High Point NC, truly is a “City of Showrooms”….and Antiques by Zaar/ZAAR Design Center is thrilled to boast a valiant presence in this furniture mecca.

Be sure to check us out!

Ruth

ruth@antiquesbyzaar.com/www.antiquesbyzaar.com

 

Launching Arianna (the 1st “A” of ZAAR)

One of the things that I most love about having my own business, is the latitude I have to take the time I need/want for my family. It is truly a gift.  But not going to lie,  can’t say I  was overly excited about the anticipated week long break in my work rhythm I would need, to go and help set up my middle child in Toronto.

Maybe it’s because I was feeling this way as we loaded my KIA and made the 11 hour drive to Toronto, that I am so effusive now, about what was an incredibly busy/productive/fun week …”launching Arianna”….ie, I was right where I was meant to be, doing what I wanted/needed to do, to help set my daughter up in this next phase of her young adult life.

Back in April when I picked Ari up, following her final set of exams, as an undergraduate of the University of Western Ontario, there was anticipation of this return to Ontario to attend her June 16th graduation, with interim time being spent at our home in Maine, with an “interesting” and ambitious list of what was anticipated to take place during that time. Many items on said list never materialized, but the one which she thought unlikely, actually did….she not only landed a job, but she landed one that suits her just perfectly!

No, it didn’t happen “straight away” but when things started to fall into place, they just kept on doing just that….2 weeks from first phone interview, first of 5, 2 online tests, followed by in person interview in New York…to an action packed week prior to grad…finding an apartment…sweet location/cozy space, and not an easy feat we started to realize quickly,  furnishing said apartment, yeah for IKEA and Home Sense, setting up/assembling, ok, I assisted, Ari directed/did the hard stuff, furniture….and all the “stuff” you don’t think of as you move your residence to a new city/country.

So glad to have been there with her…and although a tad proud, the sense that she is right where she should be, right now, as a freshly minted college, for those Canadians reading this, yes, correct terminology would be university, grad, supercedes my personal pride and, well, just gives me a glow that I can’t get rid of.

So, onward Arianna….onward. Thanks for letting me a vital part of your “launch”….

Your mother…

Now back to work I go!

… Arianna being my middle child, and as the subject line says, the first “A” of Zaar (flanked by Zachary, of www.zcakelab.com and Avery, McGill student. Your guess as to who R refers to ).

Facebook album of our week here…which also included volunteering at the FIDA fundraising golf tournament, and having father’s day brunch with my parents and sister…just to explain some of the photos, which don’t have captions.

 

Recommended Reads: The Power of Small and…

Per most recent blog posting I have just returned from a 10 day trip that took me to Toronto and back, via New York, setting up my daughter and visiting family.

Unlike the majority of my road trips I had company for the most part, in the form of my daughter, and therefore talk time filled the air…BUT, on return trip I was left to my typical devices, phone, books on CD and tape recorder,  and thus have a couple of recent “reads” to recommend.

The Power of Small/Why Little Things Make All the Difference, is co authored by Linda Kaplan Thaler and Robin Koval, an obvious power house team that are the heart and soul behind the Kaplan Thaler Group, a highly successful ad agency out of New York City. The 4 CD set gives gentle reminders of the value in tending to detail/being kind/going the extra mile/making people smile…

Just love what is behind these women and all that they do and are.

 click image to directly to Amazon to purchase…

       

The Inner Game of Selling/Mastering the Hidden Forces that Determine your Success,  by Ron Willingham, is not new to me, as I purchased the hardcover a few years back, from which I made several notes, highlighted heavily,  and found it very impactful upon that very first reading…enough to want to revisit by way of listening to it, as I did, last week.

           ”Selling is 85% emotional and 15% logical.”

He  delves into the why of selling as opposed to technique and strategy….and what gets in the way of successful selling and how to grow into the successful salespersons we all have the ability to be…should that be our chosen vocation. Truly honors the profession of selling and what we can gain personally by engaging in such with integrity and honor.

  click image to directly to Amazon to purchase…

Ron Willingham is founder and CEO of Integrity Systems, Inc., an international training and development company with more than 1.5 million graduates in 80 nations. He is the author of Integrity Service and Integrity Selling for the 21st Century. 

Love having the words of these authors ring in my mind as I seek to be the best I can be, at my job and in my life…. and thus the recommendation to those that may be interested in same.

Ruth

P.S. You have any books to point in my direction, would appreciate it…

 

 

Supporting Haiti: 4th annual FIDA Golf Tournament

The earthquake of January 2010 brought to our living rooms, in the rawest of terms, the plight of a poverty stricken nation that was now dealing with a natural disaster of the greatest magnitude…and at the time it incited me to share with my world my own history with Haiti, which I wrote in the form of a letter to Haiti,  which began at the impressionable age of 12, and in some form or nother continues on to this day.

Jack Wall, FIDA founder, flanked by family members that participated in the 2010 event...

Yes, my parents enlightened and awakened, in each of their children, a sense of outreach, that went beyond what they already experienced as the off spring of parents that opened up the family home to serve as a group home for countless teens that needed refuge and a place to feel safe and loved. You can read in greater detail, in this past blog post, my history.

My contribution to this year’s golf tournament was nominal…donating a Chinese ” art deco desk” for the auction and offering my time to help, wherever needed, as the event unfolded…which by the way, was expertly executed by my niece Alexis.

Close to 120 people paid to golf that day and just as many stayed on for what was

Founder Jack Wall/Granddaughter Alexis

a sumptuous buffet, including amazing dessert, so proud of myself for not going back for 2nds!, and participated in a silent auction with over 60 items, and a live auction. The event raised more than 30,000 for the work of FIDA in Haiti, which in and of itself is phenomenal.

This is the 2nd year that I’ve been able to attend/participate in this fundraiser and, as before, I left feeling humbled and touched by the growing numbers of people that are drawn to support the continued development work of FIDA in Haiti…and like so many that attended that day, wanting to contribute in some form or another.

And as humble as this may be, I offer this missive as my personal testament to what I know to be a committed vision to “help the Haitians help themselves”….to work WITH them, to empower them, to UPLIFT them, and to do this in the context of their very real HOPE and FAITH that God will not abandon them as they contribute to improving their own lot in this life they have been given.

FIDA continues to gain international recognition for the model of development they insist on, drawing in and partnering with other organizations that want to make an impact that really and truly counts for a people that have been “helped” beyond measure, and to do so in a way in which they can maintain their dignity.

Grateful for this recent opportunity, to share with the many supporters of FIDA, a day that was fun yet purposeful.

Ruth

P.S. If you are interested in learning more about the work of FIDA in Haiti, do visit their website, and drop them a line…they’d love to hear from you and would many suggestions on how you could help…

 

Peace & Tranquility/Beauty & Simplicity: Asian infusion in a Long Island Home

….and, the story of a  happy Antiques by Zaar customer/friend .

Katherine Kovins found Antiques by Zaar online in 2006, as she and her husband, Thom Janusz, were working  on furnishing their new Long Island home.  Wanting a Chinese sideboard, to serve as a bureau in their bedroom, was the initial impetus to shop my site.

...looking great in the, main floor, dining room.

She honed in on a beautiful, rich wood toned sideboard which she knew to be perfect in all ways for her boudoir, less the fact that this beauty, gloriously long at 100″, would not manage its way up the stairwell…no way, no how.  Katherine found a solution to her problem…. she would make a place for this piece on the main floor of her new home, in her dining room, and buy a 2nd sideboard to serve her purposes in her 2nd floor bedroom….which worked beautifully, per photos shown here.

...and Katherine looking perfect beside the sideboard that did make it up the stairs to their boudoir.

Katherine continued shopping for accent pieces from Antiques by Zaar, such as the mirror shown here,  to complement the many other Asian pieces of furniture and artifacts that she and her husband had already gathered over the years.

This past February I so very much enjoyed the tour of their home, see some pix here….I simply didn’t take enough photos..think I was in such a state of “awe”   graced as it was, with a delightful infusion of Asian furniture and artifacts throughout…beautifully placed to maximize vantage points. It truly was akin to walking through a museum, and I, the lucky gal that was given a personalized tour by the impassioned purveyors of fine treasure after fine treasure.

In Katherine’s words…”You can say that my husband and I have always loved the Asian decor as it lends peace and tranquillity to the home. We love the beauty and simplicity of Asian art and antiques.”

Thom, a renowned sculptor, showcases Asian sculptures, admist his own creative works...each complementing the other.

Couldn't resist having my pic taken in the elevator, which yes, is accented with Asian themed wallpaper.

Following this delightful visit of their home, which they have obviously poured themselves into, we continued our chat fest at the lovely Mill Pond House in Centerport, NY….where I learned more about the colorful and acclaimed backgrounds of my customers come friends….and left feeling fully infused with a heavy dose of ” peace and tranquility”, wending my way back to Great Neck, smiling from the inside out.

Thank you, Katherine and Thom, for coming into my world, by way of sharing a warmth and love for Asian antiques/artifacts. Thank you for sharing your home and your selves…and treating me to a sumptuous lunch, on that glorious February afternoon.  Thank you for giving me something so great to share with my world.

Ruth

 

WITHIT 2011 Conference: Save the Date August 23-25.

     Wisdom, Work, Wealth: Winning  Insights to Reshape Your World

This is the platform for the 2011 WITHIT conference, and I just paid my registration fee for this not to be missed event, August 23-25 in Raleigh NC….I can’t wait!

...making friends along the way.

I urge any woman that has any affiliation to the home furnishings industry, that wants to be enveloped by a bevy of like minded professional women, AND be infused by a shared fervor for one’s work AND life….to sign up and join what I PROMISE will be an extraordinary opportunity….ie, you won’t be disappointed.

How can I be so sure? Last year I attended my first conference last which I gushed about in this blog…..and if you want to SEE what fun we had, you can check out the handful of photos I posted on facebook.

Keynote Judy George inspired us all....

Well organized, great venue, inspiring key note speakers, opportunities galore to network, beautifully laid gala awards dinner, interactive round tables, and, and and….

Have I convinced you yet?

…and one more thing.

Am honored to have been asked to moderate one of the 15 round table discussions, mine being on the topic of Blogging. Am excitedly preparing for this and would LOVE input from any would be attendees/would be contenders to visit my round table, as to what specifically you may like me to touch on. Will be shooting out further blogs on this between now and then, but would love input/feedback.

…just to make it easy, click here, for online registration/check out what’s up for this year’s not to be missed event. Hope to see you in Raleigh in August!

Rut

 

Total Design Source/Old Saybrooke CT: July 4th Blow Out Sale…

…in honor of the store’s 3 year anniversary.

180 Main St, Old Saybrooke, CT.

 Be sure to check out all the offerings at Total Design Source (TDS)…so much more than a retail outlet that has an incredible array of carefully selected/deliciously presented lines…some of which you can see listed here. 

TDS also supports local artisans, and this weekend you can purchase select Judy Perry art at discounted prices….

…and, Chantal Lawrence, the heart and soul of Total Design Source, has been doing business under that name for more than a decade…the 3 year anniversary is for the opening of the retail branch of her business on Main St in Old Saybrooke, is also a talented interior and architechtual designer….check her impressive  portfolio on her website, she truly can be your “Total Design Source”.

Click here to have a little pictorial visit to the store…hope it entices you in, should you be in the Old Saybrooke area…NOTE: My friend and I do share a love for Asian antiques and artifacts…surprised?

NOTE: This weekend only….. Somerset Bay floor models on sale, at 50% off….lamps discounted 25%, as well as metal wall sculptures… 

P.S. Had the absolute delight of attending the grand opening party for TDS, summer of 2009..a few photos here to share.

 

Hannah Dee Interiors: Loves Loves Loves a Pop of Color…

….and in particular it seems a light and airy blue that she can’t seem to tear herself away from and, might I add, is so refreshingly warm and lively all at the same time…kind of what  Hannah Dee is herself…and thus I sense her natural  draw to this hue.

….so pleased that I had JUST the piece she needed, JUST the very specific size she needed, in JUST what seems to be her fave color….thank you Maria of Liveable Landscapes  for putting us together!

Not only will you agree it looks stunning in her very cool living room, as shown below….

….but it is hot hot hot in the vignette she created as participant in the The Chestnut Hill Home and Garden Festival, which was held in April…click here to see more photos of her vignette, from concept to reality,….no wonder she attracted alot of attention!

As Hannah said when she posted me some pix… “I exhibited recently in a local festival, The Chestnut Hill Home and Garden Festival. I used your beautiful blue console table as the centerpiece of the booth I created. It looked so great and really made the space. I love it in my living room as well!”
…and she carries a pop of this color into her garden as well, accented on her door and in side chairs. You don’t want to miss taking a “stroll through Hannah’s garden“….

…and if you want Hannah to work her colorful magic in your home or garden, you may want to give her a call. Website forthcoming, but in the meanwhile  you can see what she’s all about on Facebook…

….and, by the by…. if you’re looking for a pop of color by way of a refurbished piece of Chinese furniture, do check out the section on my site that I just created, “A Pop of Color!“…as yes, I do have a piece or two  in “Hannah’s blue”.

 

Blogging (Round Table): How Can I Help/Dip your toes in?!

As I mentioned in a recent post, I’m honored to have been asked to moderate a round table on Blogging, as part of the WITHIT Conference which is themed “Wisdom, Work and Wealth”….and which I KNOW will be an event that I will come away from highly infused/invigorated.

I hope to do my part to infuse others by way of leading a discussion regarding the value in blogging, as moderator of said round table.

I  feel very passionately about the value in blogging  and what it can mean for your business.  My experience running an online business, since 2000, /building relationships via email/phone and fostering through an online newsletter, started in 2004,  where I couched the “meat” of the business in warm fuzzy tidbits garnered from living on a farm in Maine, with 3 teenagers and breeding golden retrievers, and yes, I sold puppies to abyzaar customers because of this,  drawing on past lives as an expatriate in Asia/volunteer in Haiti….you get the gist….has shown me time and again that people do care when you take the time to be “real”….

…and now “blogging” has become a trend and serves as a  venue to those that care to “put themselves out there”, to do just that.  I invite all those that are interested, to dip your toes in, and see what it can do for you, or those that are already doing so, what you would like to share with the rest of us….have been dying to use this photo which I took to use  just for this very quip

As part of prep for this round table I’d like to simply ask what particular topics you may like addressed.

Shoot me questions/comments,  either by email, at ruth@antiquesbyzaar.com , or leave a comment/question on this blog, bloggers love that, and good for you too!, or leave a comment on facebook, linkedin, or twitter….wherever you may see this post.

...with Tobi, after her WITHIT sponsored breakfast/presentation on Social Media @ High Point Furniture Market.

Similarly, if you have some favorite blogs you follow…shoot me a note with a link and let me know what it is that you like particularly about said blog. Will compile a list to pass out at the conference ….and would start with blogs by Tobi Fairley, and Jane Pollak…both women inspired me to “dip my toes in” and I enjoy following their blogs….and constantly learn from them.

A Round table is meant to be a platform for discussion, and I’d like to see what we can do about starting the discussion leading up to the actual event.

So, join me, and yes, even if you aren’t able to attend the conference and would like to participate in this, please join in…..all bloggers, wanna be’s especially…drop on by.

Looking forward to a learning and growing experience for all of us…and meeting some new friends along the way.

Ruth

 

Eclectic = Interesting: Chinese, American & French Antiques…

….in Pinehurst North Carolina… that place where Babette Glauner  found herself setting up the couples “retirement” home following a 5 year stint as expatriates in Japan….and in need of “one more piece”, that being black sideboard shown here,  for her dining room.

Yes, she found the perfect sideboard, with us at Antiques by Zaar, and more…

She expounds so well on why she thinks this works perfectly  in her schema and her general decorating philosophy. ..please read on.

The simple lines of the black buffet across the great room don’t jump out and say “Chinese” but I think it seems to blend with the Japanese screen hung above it and the French armoire not too far away.  The tilt-top table and cherry and walnut side tables in the room are definitely earlier American pieces, but somehow the mix seems to work.

I am using a Tibetan painted cabinet as a large-screen television console, and many of my visitors don’t know anything about its origin but they love it.  The blended colors and pattern really draw the eye down from that big black screen that I had been a little reluctant to have in the room.

                             

      I thought that might conclude my Asian furniture shopping, but some remodeling left a gap in a powder room, a space that needed something special.  For the 2nd time, I made the trek to High Point, to visit my new friends at Antiques by Zaar,  and a 10″ deep, three drawer desk in acid green seemed like it would be perfect, and it was. 

I like to think that my home is a reflection of our interests and experiences, and in that way the Asian pieces fit in very well, but I don’t think you have to have lived or traveled to Asia to appreciate Chinese antiques.

Eclectic to me equates interesting….. I read once that every room needs some black and also that no matter the nationality, if your wood furniture pieces are of a similar hue, they will work together – that’s my decorating credo and I am sticking to it!

THANK YOU Babette, for sharing a philosophy that I tend to agree to myself, AND for the accompanying photos.

Ruth

P.S. Babette also provided a lovely testimonial for Antiques by Zaar which I look forward to including in a separate post…

 

Why Blog? A Platform to Share What your’e Passionate about, with Passion

Last week, on Twitter,  I came across a link to a blog by Liz Strauss, yes, which I re-tweeted as I felt it valuable to share, that so succinctly put out there, how important it is to know WHY you blog.

I really only became aware of the blogging world and my need to participate back in late 2008, and although I sensed that blogging was made for me, I liked to write and I had no problem being “real”  but I first had to work through just a few things….

…which was surprising to me, as, since 2004,  I  had been putting out a monthly newsletter to a list that has grown to over 5,000, and which I was very comfortable with my informal and personable presentation, clear on who my audience was,(this a big difference that set me “off”) and KNEW  it to be a successful tool to keep my business in front of my customers…. NOTE: If you can’t see yourself blogging, at very minimum touch your mailing list by way of an online newsletter…you won’t regret it….good way to “dip your toes in”…

But this blog thing….  Sure, I have plenty to write about, see below,  but, but, but….

Of course I was going to blog  for my business, which IS ME, but what format would my presentation take and more so  how would I get people to read it???? More on that in a later post on blog titles. VERY IMPORTANT!

Share more of my personal “stuff” which I do enjoy doing,?, promote how great I am by way of posting customer testimonials?, give credence to the level of clientele I have by showcasing the talented designers that shop with me?, publicize the publicity I have garnered and continue to garner for my business? , use the wonderful treasure trove of photos I have from my customers to show off how they have positioned their Chinese Antiques purchased from yours truly? promote the organizations with which I have affiliation with? share my love for my online business? YES to ALL of the above….and more.

…PASSION for what you intend to blog about is mandatory to attract an audience, and a few other things like relevance etc, but  Passion is that which fuels the engine…and I am so very passionate about all I’ve listed, and want to share with my growing online world.

As I’ve placed in the header of my upcoming roundtable on Blogging, at the WITHIT Leadership Conference in August, blogging is a Gift, to you and your business….

….But the premise on being able to successfully promote your business via said blog, is that you are passionate about it…as that passion will attract people to you and to your business.

And the premise that you would like to share your business/your passion with the world, so it can continue to be such by increased exposure, which draws increased revenue…and adds to the bottom line so you can continue to fuel this passion, simply precludes that you have this GIFT, in this FREE platform of reaching an untapped audience by way of putting out a blog, which is YOURS for the taking.

Are you passionate about your business?

Are you blogging about it? If not, why not?

How can I help you to “dip your toes in?”

Ruth

P.S. And if you simply have a passion that isn’t your business, blogging again is the perfect venue to do just that….

 

Maxwell House of Design: Mixing it up…Traditional, Modern, French, & a Touch of Asian

In the words of the Designer Jane Ann, heart and soul of Maxwell House of Design…

This great room features a mix of antiques, traditional pieces and some modern touches while evoking the sense of the client’s French background. An Asian antique chest was the perfect height for a sofa table for this rather low sofa.

Thank you Antiques by Zaar!

They say ” a picture is worth a thousand words”….

Thank YOU Jane Ann for sharing these photos of your beautifully appointed room, and for your acknowledgment to Antiques by Zaar for that little touch from Asia that you knew would serve well in this room. So glad we had what you were seeking.

Find Maxwell House of Design, on facebook, twitter and also read her blog.  Enjoy her energy,warmth and obvious sense of style.

Ruth

P.S. BTW, the initial connection between Jane Ann and myself was made via Facebook…after which she ventured to visit us at the High Point Furniture Market, rather quickly picking out the above piece which her client readily approved as perfect.

WONDERFUL to have you come into my life Jane Ann and look forward to staying in touch online, until we “meet again” in real

 

Chinese Antiques: Shopping Online/Viewing High Point, NC/a customer testimonial

The business model for Antiques by Zaar was built around the notion that people were drawn to do their shopping  online…yes, even for Chinese Antique Furniture. That was in 2000 and happy to say we called it right.  For the  past 11 years we have continued on in this vein, using our website to serve as our only storefront, building  relationships/our business, creating a niche market for our competitively  priced line of quality Chinese Antiques.  Thank you to ALL of you that have taken the plunge and shopped with us online!!!!

Ruth & Jeff after a day of sorting out the warehouse in readiness for Market.

However, even when we had our warehouse in Maine, we always welcomed the customer that desired to come and see for themselves, what was represented online. And the same remains true with our warehouse now located in High Point NC. Yes, with the assistance of my sales associate Jeff Moore, who is based in Greensboro, we are able to entertain appointments for those that still like to “touch and feel” before they purchase.

Babette Glauner of Pinehurst NC, was just one of those that fell in this category. She writes…

“I  found Antiques by Zaar on the internet while searching for Chinese antiques.  Former expat experience, Golden Retriever puppies and obviously family-oriented people...looks like she read our story…. all drew me to the website as well as the wonderful assortment of furniture and Asian accents.  When my husband gave the go-ahead to look for a few new pieces to furnish our retirement home I remembered Ruth in High Point, 1 1/2 hours away.

The piece Babette spotted online was indeed perfect for her, as shown here in her home.

The antiquesbyzaar website is well-organized and depicts the offerings very well, but as long as I was close by, I contacted Ruth to see if I could see my possible choices in person.  She was warm from the start, very accommodating and arranged a time to meet at the warehouse, now the Design Center.  What a treasure trove it is!  It was hard not to want to toss out everything I had and start anew right there!  But sense prevailed and in no time Ruth and I were chatting like old friends and I had selected the piece I had come for plus another whose possibilities jumped out at me once I saw it.  Jeff Moore, Ruth’s cohort, also was very helpful, never pressuring but guiding me to all of the variations of whatever I expressed an interest in.  It’s easy to see that both women really know and enjoy their merchandise.”

Thank you Babette, for this wonderful testimonial. It was a delight to meet you as well, and enjoy staying in touch with you by way of email/newsletters, and the such.

For those that may be interested in visiting our warehouse, please just let me know and we’ll make the arrangements.

ANNOUNCEMENT: We are moving next month, even closer to the heart of High Point…for those of you familiar with High Point, it is in the old Drexel Heritage Factory, which is at 741 West Ward. So very excited!

P.S. I also wrote a blog on Babette’s decorating mantra Eclectic= Interesting: Chinese, American and French Antiques….

 

Your Blog: What do you want to say to who? Your Title Matters…

I JUST posted my most recent newsletter, to my mailing list of just over 5,000. This “mailing list” is comprised of people that fall into two main catagories, although split into many more in my list, of either a past customer or prospective that I’ve met somewhere in my travels….my point being that the people on said list are already familiar with my company, and thus are more inclined to open up my missive no matter the title…and although the text in the subject line of my email does  matter, it matters even more that they simply know the missive is coming from ruth/antiquesbyzaar.

When blogging, you do not have that defined audience, but you are trying to reach that which you would consider your “target audience”, and thus the title of your blog should be such that they are drawn to read what you’ve writing about.

So, what is it you want to write about and who do you want to read it?

For myself, THIS is what I want to write about….

1. My business was nurtured on the direct to the consumer business and I never want to lose sight of what this has, and continues to mean to my business. To boot, these precious customers have provided me with testimonials of photos and words, which they intended for me to share.  How do I impart these “testimonials‘ in a way that will honor the person that chose to share them with me in the first place?

2. Over the years my To The Trade business has grown as the Interior Design Trade has moved to online stores to source for their clients…How can I honor these Designers that have put their confidence in my business and my product, that they readily present their clients photos of pieces they won’t see until install?

3. I have had the gift of publicity over the years that continues to validate who I am to all that may consider doing business with me. It would be silly of me not to find a way to put this out to those that don’t know who ruth/antiquesbyzaar is yet, and why they should feel comfortable doing business with me.

4. Chinese Antique Furniture/Antiques by Zaar:  I LOVE selling Chinese Antiques. I LOVE that I have had this opportunity to capitalize on the 8 years I lived in Asia as an expat wife/mother of 3. I LOVE that I am able sell such a unique item online. I LOVE that my pieces bring joy into the lives and homes of my customers. I LOVE that I’ve been able to contribute to my family by way of the business of selling Chinese Antiques. I LOVE the people I meet as I go about the selling of Chinese Antiques.  How can I share this LOVE for a genre of furniture that gives so much and the business that encompasses that?

5. ” Social Media”. It was made for the likes of me, and in fact I bought into this concept back in 2004  by way of my newsletter….no, not your traditional bullet point newsletter, but one that had the facts couched in personal antidotes. Just when I thought I was too personal, someone would drop a line/call and tell me what it meant to them that I took the time to share my world with them by way of my newsletter…they felt they “knew me”…. I want to share with my world that relationship building isn’t just the current trend, it is THE WAY, and can most definitely be done online, to do business, as that is exactly what took me from  my very first sale back in November 2000, to the next, and the next and the next, with what was the first online only store for Chinese antiques. ie. if I can start and grow a business selling Chinese Antiques online, you can sell what you want to sell as well. How do I share this with others to encourage them forth?

6. And lastly…I like to share resources/promote other peoples product, businesses/organizations. How can I help spread the good word of the good works being done by others???

So, apparantly I have ALOT to say, and you guessed it, the BLOG is the vehicle used to put it all out there.

How do I get people to read it?

Chinese Antiques is what I sell.

Thus, it is imperative, that I use terms that relate to Chinese Antiques, as a way to draw people in…not to say you won’t see posts with otherwise, BUT, as the common thread, that which I hope to lure people in to be interested in me/my product, is by way of words that relate to this genre. AND, WITHIN the body of the blog I can include testimonials/photos from my customers, to support what is put forth in the title as the topic. OR I can promote my Designer Customers by putting their company name in the title and aligning them with the usage of Chinese Antiques.  I can mix in the publicity garnered where it fits as well. You get the gist, and check out past blogs to see if I am succeeding

And Building Online Relationships ….

…is something I know a thing or two about and am eager to encourage others to just go out and “do it”. To boot I am, like many others, on a huge learning curve with technology and all that comes with just trying to keep up. I can relate and again, if I can do it so can you and I want to help.

BUT, now this missive is beyond too long…you get the point. Know what you want to say. Know who you want to say it to. Think about how you can do that by using a title that will draw them in to read what you want to share….and then post it on all your social media portals….

Enjoy and look forward to your posts.

Ruth

 

Designer Tobi Fairley Loving Pink & Green combo….one I love as well

This morning I received what was Tobi’s 2nd  blog posting on her love for the color combo of pink and green….a combo she plans on featuring all month in her blog.  Anyways, I simply  couldn’t resist adding my own, and my daughter’s, delight in this combo that reminds me of watermelon. Yes, her bedroom was painted in this fresh combination….and yes, a little Chinese Antiques by Zaar green art deco desk, works it’s way in ever so well

   …and this color  combo also  works so very well in this little wall plaque I bought for my daughter’s dorm room…wouldn’t you say? Plus the words are just what a mother wants to remind her daughter of daily…

Ruth

P.S. Have been following Tobi’s blog ever since I met her back in February 2009….and if you don’t follow her, you might want to consider such, as there is lots to learn by doing so. She has certainly created a niche in the Designer blogging world.

 

Blogging: Make it Your Good Habit/Find Your Voice

Although, I’ve been journaling on and off ever since a teenager, it was only 5 years ago that I took to committing to writing daily. Admittedly it took some time for me to fall into the rhythm of scribing a daily page of notes, but now, well into my 5th year, my day isn’t quite complete until I’ve written my one page journal entry. Yes, it has become my “good habit”.

In so many ways blogging is like journaling, and in fact, one of the definitions I found for a blog, was indeed that it was an “online journal”.

So,  if you approach blogging with the attitude that this habit will serve you well, rather than being ridden with guilt for when you don’t/can’t seem to embrace it….then it will start to flow. I’m pretty sure that I speak for many wanna be bloggers when I say that making it this good habit, like any good habit, doesn’t happen overnight. The important thing is to START…and don’t worry if you have false starts, or fall off, or get derailed, just start, and keep starting and continue starting, until you find your voice and your rhythm. It WILL come.  Put your footprint out there, and keep on keeping on, and your audience will find you.

As part of trying to figure out how you can best contribute to the blogging world, and thus how your output can contribute to drawing people to you/your business, read other blogs… take note of what you like/don’t like about them….the frequency of their posts, the timing that those posts show up in your email box, the photos they use to support their verbiage, or vice versa, their general style, where you see their posts, the template/platform they use and how easy it is to share, follow, comment. And what you think about their content and how it relates, or not, to their line of business.

It is easy to think that there are so many blogs out there, who would read yours and why. But in order to even give people a chance to decide to read/not to read, you have to put something out there, so they can make that decision. You don’t give anybody anything to read, it’s easy, you won’t have any readers. Put something out there and let them decide.

Some things that are working for me to continue keeping this as my “good habit” and might serve you as well.

1. Weekly make a list of blogs I know I want to write: On my bulletin board I have a list of 10 topics, more than I can put out in a single week,  I know I want to write about sooner rather than later. I choose from this pool.

2. Stick to a frequency that will work for you. BUT, if you’re going to blog, you really can’t do any less than one posting/week. There are many different attitudes  about frequency of blog postings and I know many that post daily, which, if this is all I did, I would happily blog along. But I, like many of you, am running a lean ship and wear many hats. I feel that if I touch my world 3 times/week by way of a blog that I’m in really great shape.

NOTE: If you only want to touch your audience monthly, a newsletter is the way to go for that. Nothing wrong with that.

3. Find the time of day that works for you to scribe your inspiration. Over time I’ve come to realize that attempting to write a blog in the morning is but a joke for me, as that is the time I need for readiness for my day, engage in the social media world (twitter/facebook) and answer all sales inquires., do general business upkeep.   I’m best to carve out time in the afternoon, or even better, in my evenings. Just a better time for all to flow.

4. Schedule Your Blog: Although I like to write late into the night, I prefer to schedule my post, easy easy to do, to go out around 7:30 in the morning. I have it set up that it automatically posts to my facebook page, and if I go into Hoote Suite, I can, in one fell swoop, post it to twitter, my facebook biz page and linked in. And, as I have a SHARE button at end of each posting I can then also easily post on relevant group walls on LinkedIn. Really, nothing like drinking your morning coffee and knowing that you are already touching people before you’ve laid hands on your keyboard.

5. It doesn’t have to be perfect….BUT, do ensure your spelling is correct AND that all your links work.

I LOVE this blogging platform that is made available for me and my business, and you should love it to. If you have an inkling to blog, then do it…make it your good habit and find your voice, and share it.  You won’t be disappointed.

Look forward to reading your blogs and knowing which blogs you like to follow and why.

It’s 9:30 Friday night…hope you enjoy this Saturday morning with your coffee

Ruth

 

A Visit to the 2011 Southampton Showhouse…

…was a must, after viewing the list of contributing designers, noting that there was  a hearty handful that I can call my customers/friends.

Summer of 2009 was the first time I visited the Southampton Showhouse, …  said visit incited by the fact that Designer Kat Burki was using  Antiques by Zaar pieces in the dressing room she designed, and which I simply had to go and see for myself….and from which I garnered the photo you see me use so often in my profiles, blogs and newsletters….and also  which we had additional coverage in Traditional Home….

My 2011 visit was one to see how those that I knew and respected as designers had contributed to the presentation for this annual fundraiser…, and, as is my way, seek out any Asian infusion that might be present …..

I wasn’t to be disappointed for as I walked into one of the guest bedrooms, as done by Tobi Fairley, who serves as my blogging inspiration, and also shares a love I have for bold colors, went full out  …which, in the curtains drew on a Far East theme, and which was repeated in the headboard, chair fabric and accent pillows.

Tilton Fenwick, Antiques by Zaar customer, such featured in this blog posting,  used an over sized Chinese  garden stool as part of their setting.

And Old Town Crossing created an outdoor space that offered a place that embodied a warm and inviting aura, using combo of glass, wrought iron, warm colored upholstered pieces, accented with delightful arrangements of cacti.

Meg Braff, who generally loves to throw in a touch of Asian in her schemas, check out my blog showcasing such,  managed a coral colored bathroom, as well as the butler’s pantry.

And, Lilian August took on the living room with grand style.

So glad I was able to work this in on my most recent trip to NYC, and happy to share with you here.

Ruth

P.S. If you want a more comprehensive viewing of the showhouse, and the many rooms I didn’t include here,  there are numerous wonderful blogs documenting such.

A couple listed here..

Doodle Home Blog   KD Hamptons Blog

 

“My Brain Doesn’t Work that Way.” Really?

It’s Sunday and it’s raining. No, not a day for outdoor work of any kind.

Yesterday was THE day to do such, and the plan was to grab some sun while I brush hogged my back field, which, less the dodging of rocks, which it appears we “grow” in Maine, is quite relaxing. But there were issues with my tractor, and my plans were thwarted.

As is my habit when I have ‘issues” with my tractor, I call on my dear neighbor, who although doesn’t own a tractor,  is “mechanically inclined”, and does know how to approach the problem and seek a solution. Fact of the matter is that I’m not really interested in learning the mechanics of my tractor. I just want it to work and if it doesn’t work smoothly I am happy to call on outside help to help me get it back up and running. I let someone else be the expert.

For  9 years my husband and I worked the Antiques by Zaar  business together. My expertise was sales, writing, and relationship building with my customers. I was the face of the business.  He was the back end of the business,  the “expert”  I called on to crunch our numbers, manage the website,  do the buying and tend to all the “techy”  stuff. I didn’t need to know how to do these things….he did it.

However, 2 years ago my husband returned to the corporate world and I was left to run  this business, and it appeared that although I’m not a techy or numbers person that either I became one or ????

Yes, I used to write my missives, newsletters, blogs etc, and he would format them. I now do both. I now am able to, easily, move, and edit photos to the various portals I choose to post them. I now do the website updates. I now manage my finances. I now do the buying for the business. I wear ALL the hats.

Antiques by Zaar needed me to care enough for it to continue, and  thus I needed to get beyond the mental blocks of “my brain doesn’t work that way” kind of attitude. I was the one to do it, …and frankly there was never a question that I wanted to do it, the question was whether I thought I could.

My point in this whole “online diary’ missive is that if you give your brain permission to entertain the possibility of learning something you thought you couldn’t learn, that it will honor you and work that way. I know, as I am living proof of this…and, in my pre New Years blog, where I acknowledged what I was grateful for in 2010,  I included thanks to my brain for such.  I still wouldn’t call myself tech savvy or a financial wizard but I KNOW I can learn what I need to….and so can you.

Yes, I still have so very  much to learn and fine tune, but with the knowledge that if I want to do it bad enough I can, I am powered on….. Yes, Let your Brain work for you…and don’t forget to say thanks.

Ruth

P.S. So, stalled with tractor yesterday, BUT did, at long last, and all by myself ,ie, didn’t call on my very tech savvy son,  added links to my email signature to further let all who do email correspondence with me  know  all that I have going on  online.. Have mimmicked here below. Not bad for a non techy person eh?

….and now back to doing what I need to do, and now know how to do, on Photo Shop for the support photos of my new inventory.

Ruth

Ruth Olbrych/Antiques by Zaar

Toll Free: 866 868 9227/ZAAR

Cell:  207 838 2675

 

Your Blog: Repurpose, Repurpose, Repurpose….

….did I say repurpose?

It truly is great to know that your blog has a shelf life much more than just the original posting… one of my big “take a ways” after listening to a presentation given by Melissa Galt, of  Melissa Galt Inc, at High Point Furniture Market, and happy to give her credit here.

There are many many portals out there to do just that, and I would  like to remind you of the basics, as well as reinforce one which isn’t considered part of “social media” , that being the online newsletter…

As I’ve mentioned previously, I’ve been putting out an online newsletter since 2004…one in which the “meat”, or my business updates,  were couched in personal antidotes…. See some past issues here…thus making my newsletter not just a venue to give company updates, but also give people a chance to get to know who is behind this business and at same time staying close to those who have done business with me. 

When I started dipping my toes into the blogging world, and as stated in my very first blog, I intended to reverse that and couch the “personal” side of my business with the meat of my business, that of selling Chinese antiques online.

And what I’d like to propose here is that the merging of these  two mediums, your newsletter and your blog, is a great way to maximize your output/reach.

OR, if you’re having a hard time engaging as a blogger, and aren’t touching your customer base, prospects and past, by way of an online newsletter, I would encourage you to start with that first…if a choice is to be made….for the following reasons:

1. Knowing your audience knows you, or is at least is familiar with your company, is a much easier writing experience, ie less intimidating, than trying to draw a new audience in.

My logo is very recognizable and is front stage on my newsletter and blog header…and, btw, is my name in Chinese.

2. You can use this online newsletter as a way to warm up to the discipline of blogging, as output for a newsletter is good monthly, whereas to make any impact with blogging you need to put out at absolute minimum once a week.

3.  It simply is good form to touch regularly those who know you, simply to remind them that you’re  there, ….for when they need what you have again…and to give those who haven’t decided to shop with you yet, a place to get to know you. These people need to hear from you and the online newsletter is unobtrusive and inexpensive.

…AND also is a place to show that there is a PERSON behind the business. My face is pretty familiar by now as well

And, with this online newsletter in place you have a wonderful place to imbed your blogs, sharing with a defined audience/your mailing list, what you are writing to a non defined audience….especially since you can now easily SHARE your newsletters of choice  on Facebook, Linked in and Twitter. LOVE it how these are all so connected for us!

Yes, I consider your newsletter as a primo place to re purpose your blogs. And I’ve taken to this and love merging these two forms….

1. As part of the text…giving a lead in to what is fleshed out in the blog, thus reducing, but at the same time increasing, my information put out in the newsletter…example here in my Thanksgiving missive.  I like to have at least 3 blogs worked into my newsletters like this.

2. By listing  of all blogs posted in 2 month span. This gives my mailing list an introduction to my blogging …example here… particularly as there’s a pretty good chance they wouldn’t otherwise find/read my blog…so nice unobtrusive way to invite them in as readers, follow my output.

3. And/or by pulling  together several blogs that represent a particular topic, to bring attention to…such as blogs which have as part of their content, applications of Chinese Antique Furniture…example here. Matter of doing a sort for them.

I have given precedence  to this specific venue to repurpose as I feel it is not commonly considered and not as obvious as what I am simply going to list below…

Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn…

1. When you set up your blog you can have it that your blog will automatically post on Twitter and Facebook. IE, you post your blog and off it goes…

2. By adding  a SHARE button on footer of each posting, others can readily post your blog to their audiences. Also, this is the way I share on my LinkedIn groups.

3. AND, lastly, I often embed past blog postings into current ones….as I did at the beginning of this post.

If you’re already doing an online newsletter, good on you for having  in place this platform to further repurpose your blog. If I’ve incited you to think about  doing an online newsletter, as a preface to doing a blog, great…

I use Constant Contact and love it. Some friends swear by Mail Chimp as well, although I’m not familiar with it.

I so KNOW of the value not of only putting out an online newsletter, but the value of being REAL within that form, that I simply want to encourage others to consider the same, and let this venue of staying  in touch with your customers/prospects work for you, and further to have this platform serve your blogging efforts as well.

Do let me know how you’re doing either in producing a newsletter and/or a blog.

Ruth

HINT: When  you gather your names/email addresses of your customers, I advise putting them in excel format, as by doing so it is really easy to add them into constant contact mailing list, share your list with others, or use in other formats…. IE, repurpose said list once compiled

 

KMH Design: Adding A Classic Chinese Console into a Modern schema

Classic, clean, modern, natural and….

A touch of Asian.

How can you not fall in love with how Kathleen, of KMH Design, has merged it all so effortlessly in this San Marco Home?

The Chinese console, positioned “just so” opposite the fire place, serves well as anchor for a pair of gorgeous framed photographs, and accented with natural artifacts and supported by a more traditional styled upholstered chair.

Thank you Kathleen, for sharing your beautiful work showcasing  how well a touch of Asian works in your “non Asian” decorating schema.

Photo credit to: Thomas Hager

Design credit to: KMH Design

Chinese console credit to: proudly,  Antiques by Zaar

P.S. Pulled this below example from an issue of Elle Decor, from a home in the Hamptons, which takes it even one step further when it comes to mixing traditional and modern, wouldn’t you agree?

Yes, that single piece of antique simply makes the otherwise generally  modern look “pop”.

If you have an example of how you’ve mixed an Asian piece (or two) with a modern, feel free to share. I will post…and give credit.

Ruth

 

Facebook: Adding “Friends” and “Likes”/Where should you be engaging?

….quality or quantity?

Who doesn’t like a large fan base and following, on facebook, THE place to be for your business…and don’t get me wrong, I LOVE this portal to meet and get to know people.

BUT is it more important to have a large following or to have a qualified following? And should you be promoting yourself/business/growing your following on your personal page or solely on your business page?

Don’t know about you but I have a steady flow of “friend requests” come in on my personal profile… people which I don’t know, less what they put out in there for me to see, before I accept them as “friends” … and which I go through  individually before adding to my following.

For any of you thinking of asking me to “friend” you, please know this…

1. Having a healthy number of mutual friends is not enough reason for me to bring you into the fold.

2. If you want to be part of my flock I would like to know a little more about you than just your name….ie, don’t block your information so that I can only see who you are AFTER I friend you.

3. I would like it that English is the language you are posting on facebook. No offense, just that I don’t speak, nor can read anything but English.

4. A provocative profile photo doesn’t entice me to add you….

I’m not saying that some people have slipped through the cracks on me, but I am trying to keep my audience/friend list one that relates to who I am and what I do, and above helps.

I am so thrilled that so many people have indeed entered my world by way of my personal page on face book, and look forward to growing my community here….one that is satisfying to you and to me…and I think the above guidelines help to keep all in check.

Now for fans/likes….

I often see…”like me and I’ll like you” as people seek to grow their fan base on their business page on facebook.

Although I have on occasion suggested” liking” antiques by zaar to those in my personal following, IF I think relevant to who they are….ie, if you’re in the furniture or design business….BUT I much prefer people “liking” antiques by zaar because they want to support me and keep tabs on what’s up with my biz here, as that is what I use this page for.

And know I will happily “like” your business for same reasons…ie, I like you/what you’re doing, or what your sharing on facebook,which incites me to check out more of what you’re all about, and subsequently want to support you….not just to have you “like’ me in return…although the gesture is appreciated.

Soooo, IF you are interested in me and/or my business, I welcome your support in what I do by “liking” antiques by zaar, where I post my blogs and updates on my biz….and let me know of your business, which I will happily support by “liking” as well.

And if you think we share further mutual interests, I am happy to receive your friend request as well and will happily accept/welcome you to my world.

Would be curious to know what you think about how and where is the  best place to grow your facebook audience.

Should you leave business to the business fan pages and have your personal profile for just that, personal “stuff”?

If so, how do you move people over from your personal page to your business page? Do they want to go there or do they prefer interacting with you on your personal page?

Does it really matter who you have where as long as you are engaging?

Would love to know what ya’ll think of this, but in the meanwhile I shall enjoy sharing with those that have joined me on my biz page and/or on my personal page….yes, all on Facebook.

Ruth

 

My Day Ends Well/Start Wells when…

It ends well when…

…I can look back at my “to do” list and see that it is “mostly” complete. And yes, I include what I plan on doing for personal as well as business side..gotta try and fit it ALL in! 

….I have “touched” each of my children, and my mother, somewhere in the course of my day, either by phone, email or text.

….I feel I have interacted effectively with those that surround me virtually.

….I have put in a good day in support of my self/my vision/my business. 

….and I have exercised. Been back burnered this summer with a sprained ligament that isn’t healing quickly

I like to end it well by….

…..munching on a bowl of those colorful fruity cheerios as my nighttime snack.

….Preparing a “reasonable”  To Do list for the next day.

….Making my nightly one page journal entry.

…having a languid tub

…having my coffee prepared, so that I just have to press “on” upon rising.

….have the kitchen tidied, so as to not wake up to the mess…ok, have to admit not done as consistently as I’d like BUT yes, I do like it when I do do it.

….having a blog or newsletter prepared and scheduled to hit the airwaves as I’m having my coffee at 7:30 the next morning.

… remembering to be Grateful for the many people and opportunities that I have and continue to be Blessed with.

And by ending my days with these activities/thoughts, it simply helps me start that whole cycle over again, starting “well” the next whole new day.

Happy Monday and to Many Happy Endings and Beginnings to you all!

Ruth

 

Succeed, Inspire, Create….

….were the words emblazed on three different pillows that were part of our “gift pack” upon registration at the 2011 WITHIT Leadership Conference, which was just held in Raleigh-Durham earlier this week.

I chose “succeed” as it is that candle I hold before me as I work to nurture and grow my business...but “inspire” was a close 2nd, I have to say.

Which word do you like in front of you as you go about your business/life?

And if you were at the conference, which pillow did you choose and why?

Ruth

Thank you to wright showroom solutions for providing what was a  visually delightful welcome as well as a great take away.

P.S. Yes, another posting forthcoming on what was another great conference….just a warm up here.

 

Feeling “WITHIT”…and you can too.

Although I carry with me every day many wonderful  ”takeaways” after attending each WITHIT conference, see blog posting from last year,  I would be remiss in  ”moving forward” without an acknowledgement by way of a blog posting from last week’s conference….besides, this is kind of expected from me by now eh..sharing said takeaways.

So, between hurricane Irene, and thus a power outage, and heading to Ireland, with husband to mark our landmark 25th anniversary, I am going to shoot out a few words, joining my many fellow WITHIT members who are similarly posting on Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter.

The “takeaways” are numerous….

A reconnection with friends.

New connections….and GREAT to see so many students with us!

New opportunities for my business. You can anticipate reading about this in future blogs/newsletters

New opportunities to help others with their business. Thank you for the honor of leading your blogging roundtable.

A renewed appreciation for how and why WITHIT came into being in the first place. Thank you Jena Hall for sharing…

A true sense of this vision being just as strong today. Thank you to the leaders who remain so committed to the vision…

Opportunity to applaud,see, hear and be touched by iconic women in our industry/role models each in their own right.

WOW awards…..

An awareness of the “new world” we are in and what that means for how we approach our business. Keynote Elm Street Economics.

A better understanding of all that I can do with my iphone, in addition to grabbing emails, texting and oh yeah, using as a phone. Pre conference workshop.

BUT, it is the pervasive Spirit that I am enveloped with me that anchors me/serves as my “core” …

For all of above is couched in a Spirit of…

Empowerment

Support

Encouragement

Professionalism

Acknowledgment

Understanding

Celebration

Acceptance

For the women of WITHIT share more than the commonality of being associated with the Home Furnishings Business, they are…

Professional….yet cuddly…I so know there are photos out of the snuggle bunnies on sofas at the bar.

Personable

Real

Dynamic

Colorful….in personality and in how they dress….many loving a “splash” of color…so fun!

Connected…in all the right ways

Have a Voice and are not afraid to use it….whether in written, spoken word or in song.

Are willing and eager to share, listen, support, uplift, encourage, mentor and be mentored.

Knowingly a little “gushy” here but I simply can’t emphasize enough the value of being part of a community of supportive and like minded women. So, if you are part of the Home Furnishings Industry, do yourself a favor and join WITHIT. If you’re not, go out and find yourself a community…and don’t let geography deter you, many online groups offer same...but do it.

I am able to nurture and grow my business, because I have taken the time to nurture and grow myself….and with that I am “powered on” and you can too!

Soooo, get Withit and feel yourself grow and glow!

Ruth

P.S. Am well aware of lack of photos in this missive and there are numerous reasons I am going against what I preached at my blogging roundtable re importance of having images help grab your reader. But I simply felt that this message needed be posted now…not a week from now, when I’d have a chance to get photos for this….gives me reason to “repurpose” and send with photos at a later date

 

Shane’s Collection Showcases Chinese Antiques….

….from none other than Antiques by Zaar!

So thrilled for the collaboration with Shane Phillips, in his retail store so aptly named “Shane’s Collection”, which is just that…. a great collection of  furniture and accessories  as selected and displayed so eloquently by Shane himself. Truly, the man is passionate about what he does and you can feel it from the way he creates his window displays, which simply draw you in….such as the black and white themed vignette he did for his grand opening earlier this summer…and which I just have to share here.

Conveniently located on the corner of Main and Kivett in High Point, NC,  he is open 6 days a week, servicing both retail and designer customers.

Yes,  he would specifically would like the Designer community to know that he is there to welcome you each and every Designer Wednesday, and will also be open throughout the duration of Market, welcoming your business.

NOTE: Antiques by Zaar Showroom at 1500 West Green Drive will unfortunately NOT be open for Designer Appreciation Day, Wed Sept 14th….

Please visit our retail venue @ the corner of Main and Kivett, at Shane’s Collection…..where you will be sure to find  something to suit your tasteful palette and your pocket book….and enjoy meeting Shane while you’re at it. He’s not only a talented designer with a discerning eye, he is just a really nice guy!

The store truly is a must see, and I hope these couple of photos serve as a teaser to have you stop by, for I promise you, you will be delighted.

For more information on Shane’s Collection, contact the man himself at 336 991 0867.

Ruth

 

Antiques by Zaar with C.R. Laine…

….for the 2011 Fall Market in IHFC, Interhall IH 404!

So excited about the invitation by C.R. Laine for Antiques by Zaar to serve as one of their “trade partners” . Look forward to seeing/feeling the merging of beautiful product lines, the synergy of impassioned sales people presenting their respective lines, the embracing of past customers/friends  and the thrill of making new connections.

Sharing some photos….

BEFORE the “magic” is done, this is some of what is being worked with… and yes, you can count on seeing how it all comes together to present next week…for “the next 6 days that matter“.

 

Chinese Antique Armoires in the Bathroom? Mais Oui!

No, not something you would normally consider….but yes, it does work….as shown below by, not one, but two of my customers.

Maria  Hasenecz , of Wyndmoor, PA, and Antiques by Zaar customer since 2007 , was determined to get her armoire of choice into her bathroom, which, you must agree, looks gorgeous! What you don’t know from the photos is that the desired location for the new home of her most recent acquisition, was on the 2nd floor of her home, which has, as part of it’s charm, a set of steps too narrow to accomodate getting this piece to its desired location.

Of course, on the day of delivery, who would have a crane booked towork at her home to address other upgrades she was working on? That would be Maria. And thus the Chinese armoire was lifted by crane and plopped into into just where Maria wanted it, by way of the window. Love the story….see previous blog, here, showcasing Maria’s decorating gift, with her original AbyZaar purchase, a lacquered coffee table.

Tilton Fenwick, of New  York NY also positioned a Chinese Armoire, a “kitchen” cabinet to be exact, in the 1890′s farmhouse that Suysel, Antiques by Zaar customer since 2004, bought for her family as a weekend retreat from NYC. The entire home , which the design team gutted and rebuilt and decorated, was featured on Houzz, and worth a visit.

                            

bathroom design by new york interior designer TILTON FENWICK

So pleased that our Chinese Kitchen cabinet served so well in the main bathroom of Suysel’s country home AND that so many on Houzz appreciated the application and made comment on how well it worked/looked/felt.

Click here, to read previous blog written on Tilton Fenwick ,Antiques by Zaar and Metropolitan Home….also enjoy the work of Tilton Fenwick as showcased on the Home page of my website.

…and should you want to consider using a Chinese Armoire for similar application/or otherwise, be sure to check out what we have available, by clicking here….

Would LOVE to see/share photos of how you have positioned your Chinese Armoire!

Ruth

 

Thanks to YOU, and YOU, and YOU, and YOU…

….for being so much a part of my sense of well being on the occasion of my 51st birthday.

I apologize for doing this in a blog, and warn that this is decidedly”gushy”,  but it seemed the ONLY way to adequately address the too numerous to count well wishes I received over the weekend….yes, on facebook!

Some of you I know quite well,…some from “other lifetimes”  and we keep abreast via face book….

Some of you I know “somewhat”/have met in person…and am getting  to know better…and we do much of that … via face book.

And many of you I know simply by the postings I see on my wall, and have yet to meet you  in “real” but in the interim, we get acquainted… yes, on face book.

Nuts and bolts is that on a daily basis I enjoy visiting/engaging on my wall, where the  prevalent tone is…positive, uplifting, supportive, affirming, inviting, and deliciously supported with many outstanding photos.

This is the “norm” and I’m always delighted by what I take in…yes, on facebook. BUT, to have that all directed straight away to me…well, was a tad overwhelming. You did it…I was rendered speechless.

…adding to what I also received from my dear family…which actually rendered me tearful (in a good way)…. I simply embraced being embraced all the day long. Yup, it was MY day!

The sun shone brightly on Sunday. I didn’t do anything “exceptional”  less drink it all in…ending the day with a delightful visit  by a handful of dear girl friends that joined with me in the eating of my beautiful, and delicious, cake…thanks to cake artist Zach, son of mine.

ALL of this, ALL of YOU, just warmed my soul….on what was the occasion of my 51st birthday…I did say that already didn’t I? You got it ???

Thanks bunches.

Hope ya’ll are having a great week. I sure am.

With great fondness and appreciation….

Ruth

 

Fall 2011 High Point Market: An exhibitor’s perspective….

“It’s ALL good!”

Yes, that is how I would, succinctly, capsulize this most recent “6 days that mattered” which  to those in the home industry know  such is referring to the Fall 2011 High Point Furniture Market.

For 8 years I have participated as an exhibitor in the High Point Market, and there is no doubt that I, like all, have seen, and likewise experienced, a lot of changes over the years. And although there is a general contention that “traffic” is down, I feel safe to say that the general contention also is that the people that are coming to High Point, are a purposeful buyer and that the tone out and about is upbeat and positive.

My take? Well, anyone that is at Market is still in business, and as such we have great cause to celebrate. We have sustained our businesses through an economic upheaval, which probably shouldn’t be put in past tense quite yet, that has taken a huge toll on the home furnishings industry and all associated with it. The casualty list is one that is not to be ignored and any of us could just as easily be on said list….BUT, we’re not.

Everyone at Market is actively in business, each  doing our part to keep it all going…and TOGETHER we continue to contribute to the well being of our economic climate by refusing to participate in the recession….this downturn which has served as a great equalizer, among many other things. But fact of the matter is that our businesses mattered, and all of us have done the things we needed to do sustain and grow… tighten the belts, skim on some of the “extras”, be creative/resourceful,collaborate, work more for less,etc etc …. to fuel ourselves on. So, bravo for us!

And in keeping with the celebratory feeling I have whilst amongst all at  Market, I would like to add how appreciative I am of MY ever evolving community in High Point….one in which a sense of collaboration is prevalent… to the point of humbling me as I take personal benefit from doors that continue to open ….relationships that continue to be fostered/introduced and enrich my life and ultimately my business. I aspire simply to honor the support and collaborations that continue to become part of ZAAR’s presence in High Point.

Yes, Market Fall 2011 was all I had hoped for….

A nice contingent of customers found their way to our new, easy to locate,  warehouse/showroom, also known as ZAAR Design Center, on the corner of West and Green. see photos here.

As a trade partner of C.R. Laine I was beyond thrilled to hang my hat in their Interhall showroom for a good part of the week…giving me a platform to be in front of a steady ebb and flow of people , many of which I knew and which was great to re acquaint with, and many which I was able to make an initial introduction, that were drawn into their show stopper showroom. See pix here.

As a member of WITHIT I reveled in the opportunity to further entrench myself in this organization, by attending the events they sponsored, namely their educational breakfast which featured Maxwell Gillingham-Ryan, founder of Apartment Therapy, and the Competitive Intelligence/Trends Forecast event.

As a friend of many fellow exhibitors, I enjoyed supporting their events and “wins”…speaking in particular here of Red Egg‘s win as Showroom of the Year award…see additional  photos here.

And after all is said and done I know that between now and the next Market I have continued opportunities to promote, not only my business, but those that have joined me at ZAAR Design Center, as we remain open for High Point Design Centers Designer Wednesdays, and plan on active participation in the annual Unity in Design Event, held in Feb.

So, yes…it is all good.

Thank you to all that participated at every level to make Market a relevant experience to all. And onward!

…and should you like to add a perspective to what your thoughts were on Fall 2011 Market, I’d love to hear them. Designers, Marketers, Buyers, Exhibitors…please bend my ear!

Ruth

 

For the Love of Chinese Porcelain Garden Stools

You can hardly flip through the pages of any of your favorite shelter magazines, or as shown here, accenting the C.R. Laine showcase  Interhall showroom at Fall 2011  Market…see additional pix here…without seeing someone using either a vintage style, or modern version of, the Chinese Garden Stool, as they work themselves so well into any styled setting… it almost seems to be a “must have” to complete at least one room in one’s home.

….eons ago we had a great source for a steady supply of vintage style garden stools, which was great as we sold ALOT of them,  but last couple of years we’ve been unable to locate a reliable source for this ever popular item….until now.

Yes, happy to advise that I have recently secured a new supplier, and thus can once again offer these hot items. ….not only the vintage style but also fresh, modern colors….as shown here in classic cool white, in the Design on a Dime Tilton Fenwick showroom of a blogger’s office…which yes, also happens to sport an antiques by zaar etager….read about abyzaar/tilton fenwick here.

If you have photos to share of how you’ve placed one of these lovelies, would be thrilled to share it…or, if you have need of something similar for you, or, to you designers,  your client’s homes, do let me know if I can help. Small selection can be seen here, on my website…more to come soon!

What a wonderful way to bring a touch of Asia to your home!

Ruth

P.S. Can be seen @ the ZAAR Design Center in High Point. Open the 2nd Wednesday of each month 9:00-5:00, or otherwise by appointment….or, of course, 24/7 online!