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

 

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

 

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

 

 

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.

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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.

 

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.

 

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

 

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

Poker Run August 5-6

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.

 

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