Two Warehouses FULL of Asian Treasures in High Point AND…

….easily accessible by the Go Anywhere bus during Market, AND available ALL YEAR, by appointment,  for To The Trade Customers!

There’s alot of buzz going on about the revitalization of High Point and how it can, and should, be so much more than home to the twice annual Furniture Market.  I have been a believer of  this for years, in particular at the level of being a destination point for designers to shop between markets in addition to during markets. High Point Design Center, a group I joined in 2008, has this at the core of it’s mission, and I deeply respect all that they have done and continue to do to support this.  Yes, it is by working together that we can make  this a reality, and I love the collaborative Spirit amongst the showroom members that emulate this.  However, there are many businesses in High Point, available to do business year round, that you might not know about.  Some “secrets” in High Point that shouldn’t be a secret if you will.

With this in mind I am excited to introduce to you, a neighbor of mine, that I have  only recently been made of aware of, that , like me, has turned their warehouse into their showroom.  If I didn’t know about them, and they are only 1 mile from me, I am guessing you don’t know about them either, and thus this introduction is my Gift to you, because you’re going to love what they have.

C & S Acosta, in business since 1985, like Antiques by Zaar, in business since 1999, is a family business, and have been showing in High Point for over a decade.  And like Antiques by Zaar, their focus is on Asian product.

In their words…

“We are probably best known for our beautiful selection of blue and white hand-painted porcelain and antique reproductions of bronze sculptures imported from Thailand. However, over the years, our collection has expanded to include accent furniture, wooden handicrafts and magnificent mirrors that are made in other regions and exotic islands of Southeast Asia.”

Get a sneak peak of their fabulous warehouse/showroom here. Product is not only exquisite but well priced.

If you have a need for beautiful Asian furniture or porcelain, you do need to check out the both of us.

Antiques by Zaar, is at ZAAR Design Center, at 741 West Ward (A on map).

NOTE: Although address is West Ward, the entrance is on Green. Look for the bright yellow flags. C& S Acosta (B on map)  is but a mile from us. Continue down West Green (left  hand turn), turn right onto West Market Drive  and turn right when you see Trucking company  sign. They are located in building behind that business.

Know that ZAAR will have a smattering of C & S Acosta’s merchandise displayed at ZAAR , just to give you a taste of the fine craftsmanship of their product.

ZAAR is open 9;00- 5:00 from Saturday April 18th, through to Thursday April 23th, hosting a lunch n learn with Deb Barrett on Sunday April 19th, starting at 12:00 CEU Credit course….and although not required, RSVP appreciated.

Look forward to seeing you.

Ruth

 

High Point Market: Center for Antiques? You betcha

…and more ,on the Changing Face of High Point.

For over 100 years High Point has been considered the Furniture Capital of the World and since 1909, yes, 1909, it has been host to the infamous High Point Furniture Market.  The square footage of the Market alone is bar none to making it the largest trade show in the United States and the reputation of the show continues to stand strong as THE place to spot trends.

Holding strong to it’s core values/offerings to the community of sellers/buyers that twice a year block out their calendars for  “Market”, it has however had to change with the times….and it is with making these  changes that High Point Market  remains a vital resource it is for so many…..but perhaps with a twist if you will.

 

You know “the same but different.”  No doubt a  shift is occurring before our eyes  and it is an exciting and noteworthy one as a tidal wave effect of purely positive repercussions  continues…  one that is reflected not only the changing product offerings but also the growing trend for the Interior Design Community to contribute at a much deeper level than simply as a consumer. All of it I find it quite simply exciting.

I well recall my first visit to High Point in 2003, with my directory earmarked to visit any exhibitor that looked like they might

carry Chinese Antiques. Wanted to see if it made sense for me to come here with my Chinese Antiques and also see what I had for competition. Well, apparently I found enough cause to take on my first “home” in Market Square and did so in 2004. My initiation tour 10 plus  years ago had me traipsing all over the place, but Market Square felt like it was the right place to show my unique one of a kind pieces,and that is where I started my Market career as a High Point Exhibitor.

 

Is it any surprise  that what is now a well known “go to” place for designers to hit is none other than the  Antique and Design Center, spearheaded by the dynamic duo of Karen Luisana, and Amanda Kinney, has found a home in the halls of the Historic Market Square, for over 70, yes, 70 vendors that come to show and sell each Market.

 

 

The ambiance of the old building lends itself perfectly as home to this unique one of a kind venue in the heart of Market Square, and with ready access from the Suites. The icing on the cake is that each and every Market the team at the Antique and Design Center offer a steady diet of exceptional educational events, targeted to the Design Community.  Market after Market they just keep on stepping it up on the educational offerings by  hosting an endless stream of impressive and relevant seminars presented by people well renowned in their field. This year is no different and you can go here and be blown away, as I was, looking at what they have lined up for you this Market. NOT TO BE MISSED!

Yes, the Antique and Design Center is the true essence of the changing face of High Point. I choose to also contribute to the changing face of High Point and am excited to be part of this wave.  I have been in High Point for 11 years now, but 4 years, and 4 warehouse moves later, I have found my “home” in the repurposed Drexel Heritage Factory on the corner of Ward and Green…just a mile from the heart of High Point….where I show and sell my Chinese Antique furniture and accessories, also representing product from Distinctive Chesterfields and C & S Acosta….just to name a few.

I am so proud to  share this vision, with the Antique and Design Center,  for what we can each  bring to the table to be part of a vital, and yes, changing, High Point.

If you don’t have a visit to the Antique and Design Center or Antiques by ZAAR  on your agenda, be sure to add it, and be sure to take in at least one of the many educational treats  have lined up for this Market.

NOTE:  ZAAR Design Center will host a Lunch n Learn on Sunday April 19th at 12:00. CEU accredited talk by Deb Barrett, will give you a WORLD TOUR, focusing on Smart Designs from the World’s Top Markets.  RSVP Appreciated, not required.  text 207 838 2675 or email ruth@antiquesbyzaar.com.

 

 

High Point Market: Center for Antiques? You betcha

Ruth's Blog/Antiques by Zaar

…and more ,on the Changing Face of High Point. For over 100 years High Point has been considered the Furniture Capital of the World and since 1909, yes, 1909, it has been host to the infamous High Point Furniture Market.  The square footage of the Market alone is bar none to making it the largest trade show in the United States and the reputation of the show continues to stand strong as THE place to spot trends. Holding strong to it’s core values/offerings to the community of sellers/buyers that twice a year block out their calendars for  “Market”, it has however had to change with the times….and it is with making these  changes that High Point Market  remains a vital resource it is for so many…..but perhaps with a twist if you will. You know “the same but different.” It is my contention that a shift is occurring before…

View original post 974 more words

 

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

Traci Zeller

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

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

C. R. Laine.

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

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

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

Shane’s Collection ….

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

Katy Allgeyer aka Feng Shui Girl

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

Hannah Dee Interiors…

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

and Antiques by Zaar

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

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

Ruth

 

Fall 2011 High Point Market: An exhibitor’s perspective….

“It’s ALL good!”

Yes, that is how I would, succinctly, capsulize this most recent “6 days that mattered” which  to those in the home industry know  such is referring to the Fall 2011 High Point Furniture Market.

For 8 years I have participated as an exhibitor in the High Point Market, and there is no doubt that I, like all, have seen, and likewise experienced, a lot of changes over the years. And although there is a general contention that “traffic” is down, I feel safe to say that the general contention also is that the people that are coming to High Point, are a purposeful buyer and that the tone out and about is upbeat and positive.

My take? Well, anyone that is at Market is still in business, and as such we have great cause to celebrate. We have sustained our businesses through an economic upheaval, which probably shouldn’t be put in past tense quite yet, that has taken a huge toll on the home furnishings industry and all associated with it. The casualty list is one that is not to be ignored and any of us could just as easily be on said list….BUT, we’re not.

Everyone at Market is actively in business, each  doing our part to keep it all going…and TOGETHER we continue to contribute to the well being of our economic climate by refusing to participate in the recession….this downturn which has served as a great equalizer, among many other things. But fact of the matter is that our businesses mattered, and all of us have done the things we needed to do sustain and grow… tighten the belts, skim on some of the “extras”, be creative/resourceful,collaborate, work more for less,etc etc …. to fuel ourselves on. So, bravo for us!

And in keeping with the celebratory feeling I have whilst amongst all at  Market, I would like to add how appreciative I am of MY ever evolving community in High Point….one in which a sense of collaboration is prevalent… to the point of humbling me as I take personal benefit from doors that continue to open ….relationships that continue to be fostered/introduced and enrich my life and ultimately my business. I aspire simply to honor the support and collaborations that continue to become part of ZAAR’s presence in High Point.

Yes, Market Fall 2011 was all I had hoped for….

A nice contingent of customers found their way to our new, easy to locate,  warehouse/showroom, also known as ZAAR Design Center, on the corner of West and Green. see photos here.

As a trade partner of C.R. Laine I was beyond thrilled to hang my hat in their Interhall showroom for a good part of the week…giving me a platform to be in front of a steady ebb and flow of people , many of which I knew and which was great to re acquaint with, and many which I was able to make an initial introduction, that were drawn into their show stopper showroom. See pix here.

As a member of WITHIT I reveled in the opportunity to further entrench myself in this organization, by attending the events they sponsored, namely their educational breakfast which featured Maxwell Gillingham-Ryan, founder of Apartment Therapy, and the Competitive Intelligence/Trends Forecast event.

As a friend of many fellow exhibitors, I enjoyed supporting their events and “wins”…speaking in particular here of Red Egg‘s win as Showroom of the Year award…see additional  photos here.

And after all is said and done I know that between now and the next Market I have continued opportunities to promote, not only my business, but those that have joined me at ZAAR Design Center, as we remain open for High Point Design Centers Designer Wednesdays, and plan on active participation in the annual Unity in Design Event, held in Feb.

So, yes…it is all good.

Thank you to all that participated at every level to make Market a relevant experience to all. And onward!

…and should you like to add a perspective to what your thoughts were on Fall 2011 Market, I’d love to hear them. Designers, Marketers, Buyers, Exhibitors…please bend my ear!

Ruth

 

Antiques by Zaar with C.R. Laine…

….for the 2011 Fall Market in IHFC, Interhall IH 404!

So excited about the invitation by C.R. Laine for Antiques by Zaar to serve as one of their “trade partners” . Look forward to seeing/feeling the merging of beautiful product lines, the synergy of impassioned sales people presenting their respective lines, the embracing of past customers/friends  and the thrill of making new connections.

Sharing some photos….

BEFORE the “magic” is done, this is some of what is being worked with… and yes, you can count on seeing how it all comes together to present next week…for “the next 6 days that matter“.

 

Maxwell House of Design: Mixing it up…Traditional, Modern, French, & a Touch of Asian

In the words of the Designer Jane Ann, heart and soul of Maxwell House of Design…

This great room features a mix of antiques, traditional pieces and some modern touches while evoking the sense of the client’s French background. An Asian antique chest was the perfect height for a sofa table for this rather low sofa.

Thank you Antiques by Zaar!

They say ” a picture is worth a thousand words”….

Thank YOU Jane Ann for sharing these photos of your beautifully appointed room, and for your acknowledgment to Antiques by Zaar for that little touch from Asia that you knew would serve well in this room. So glad we had what you were seeking.

Find Maxwell House of Design, on facebook, twitter and also read her blog.  Enjoy her energy,warmth and obvious sense of style.

Ruth

P.S. BTW, the initial connection between Jane Ann and myself was made via Facebook…after which she ventured to visit us at the High Point Furniture Market, rather quickly picking out the above piece which her client readily approved as perfect.

WONDERFUL to have you come into my life Jane Ann and look forward to staying in touch online, until we “meet again” in real 🙂

 

Spring 2011 High Point Market Highlights

I can’t believe that it’s been 7 years since I’ve been wending my way to High Point NC for the Furniture Market….and my delight in being present there for my business there simply continues to grow.

Am thrilled to say that I, and many others that I talked to as well, had a wonderful Market….what great news that is to spread!

But High Point Market is so much more than a venue for buyers and sellers to converge and do business, and part of my growing delight has been in the programs that are offered and the insight I gain in the industry by attending such.

Only recently came aware of the fact that there is a pre Market kick off  Prayer Breakfast prefacing each Market.  The fact that Kathy Ireland was the guest speaker a couple of years ago was admittedly what had enticed me to attend the 7:00 am program, yes, ouch,  the first time.  This year I waffled on going but in the end did and was delighted and inspired by the key-note speaker’s presentation as put forth by Aminy Audi, president of Stickley Furniture….a struggling brand that she and her husband took over in 1976, and breathed new life into. She , as businesswoman, philanthropist, educator, mother and wife, was  the

package deal….real, warm, engaging, humorous, spiritual, enormously respected, and inspirational. Yes, glad I got myself out of bed for that early morning presentation.

The breakfast meeting that I won’t miss attending is that which is sponsored by WITHIT. This is a double win as not only is there always a great speaker, but it is a chance to give hugs all around, to my fellow WITHIT members, which I am sure to see there. Read WITHIT Market recap here.

This year, designer and author Thomas Jayne, was the guest speaker…engaging his audience fully as he highlighted various rooms in his recently published book, which were available for to purchase and be autographed following said presentation.

                                              Click image to go directly to Amazon to purchase your copy of “The Finest Rooms”

You can also count on IFDA sponsoring a luncheon/speaker that delights and commands a full house. This year it would be TV designer/personality  Ty Pennington who blew in and kept his audience , small compared to the millions he draws on during his Extreme Home Makeover’s, enthralled.

…and MUST include here a note regarding the most recent episode  of Extreme Home Makeover, I watched with my husband, where the  Carl Hall family of Wichita KS , had their life turned upside down when the husband/father of 4 was injured in a car accident a year ago, rendering him completly paralyzed from the shoulder’s down. Not upside right, but monumental strides made by the Extreme Team, coupled with that of a very supportive and loving community, was put in place to improve the lot of this family, and witnessing this all was touching to say the least.

Attending these events is a recent “icing on my cake” part of Market for me. The after hour events have always been a must do,at minium for food and drink to fuel on,  part of Market as well …the trick being deciding which of the many that are slated, to attend, as they are always a great venue to meet and greet…fellow exhibitors, past customers, those people that we count on to do all the behind the scenes work to “make” Market happen, as well as new people.

Aaron Cabeen of Cabeen Originals, falls into the latter catagory, being a young gentleman from Chatanooga TN, who I was introduced to by John Strauss, of John Strauss Furniture, who I initially “met” on Twitter, and have since fostered a friendship, and who now has a sampling of his product in the ZAAR Design Center!

This was a debut Market for Cabeen Originals and having a piece stage centre on the Market edition of Home Accents Today certainly added to his “entree” to High Point Market. How to go Aaron!

…and as I shared with Aaron,Antiques by Zaar enjoyed a HATcover as well, as shown here, in October 2006. Thank YOU HAT folks! 

NOTE: That little green console shown here was THE hot hot item for me this Spring 2011 Market…selling even the stock that has not yet arrived!

This is but a wide swoosh of all that transpired during this most recent “6 Days that Matter”….and now that I have shared this with my virtual world I can go on with the many, ok, too many, things that I have burning a fire under me, that are exciting developments for Antiques by Zaar.

Suffice it to say….the showroom looked great…. and those that visited enjoyed viewing not only my collection but also samplings from Fortunata, Touchwood, Bellascenda and Kat Burki, the feeling all about was up beat, and even with a wide range of temperatures outside, the pervasive tone was warm and enveloping.

Feel free to visit Market and ZAAR Design Center by checking out some photos here. AND, if you didn’t get to see us during Market, don’t sweat it, as we are open year round…9:00-5:00 the 2nd Wed of every month, or by appointment.

Thanks to ALL who are part of what makes the High Point Furniture Market a great event!

Ruth

 

The World’s Largest Chest of Drawers: Housing Chinese Antiques for Market!

….of course this would be  in the epicenter of High Point North Carolina, the furniture capital of the world, and Antiques by Zaar is excited to be showcasing product from this infamous landmark during the upcoming Spring High Point Market…..with balance of collection available to view at the ZAAR Design Center @ 220 Feld Ave.

Talk about a drawing card eh? Gotta say I love it. Centrally located at 508 Hamilton, this 38′ tall historical structure was built in the 1920’s and served as the towns bureau of information. …and has been listed on the map for NC attractions for decades…per below vintage postcard.

Currently owned by my friend Pamela Stern, she and I mutually felt that placing and selling the Chinese antiques in the Worlds Largest Chest of Drawers was just what needed to be done for this Spring’s Market….breathing new life into this iconic structure.

Pamela, well familiar with Chinese Antiques, and is just about as passionate about them as I am, will be serving as the Antiques by Zaar sales rep during Market….and also serve to answer all your questions about her historical piece of real estate.

So, if you’re going to be in High Point next month, be sure to check out how great American history and Chinese history complement each other in this setting….yes, possibly representative of the changing face of High Point?

I.E. Have you heard about not one, but two Antique Centers, opening up for Market? One in Suites at Market Square and the 2nd on Russell Ave????

 Will be open 9:00-5:00 from April 1-7, as will ZAAR Design Center.

Ruth

 

Inspiring Designers Speak @ High Point

A well travelled, sophisticated and warm Barry Dixon…

What do Barry Dixon, Kelly Hoppen and Angelo Surmelis have in common?

Undoubtedly each in thier own right they are renowned designers…each with signature lines, books, tv shows, and are sought after speakers….and thus why such great draws  at IHFC , and as brought in by WITHIT and IFDA at the most recent High Point Furniture Market.

After hearing each of them speak I am inclined to suggest that in addition to their obvious talent as designers,  that their respective successes are due to the winning combination of being good at what they do AND knowing who they are and what value they can bring to the worlds of many.

....effervescent and vibrant Kelly Hoppen.

...and self proclaimed "geeky" Angelo Surmelis

The common thread amongst all was that “trend watching” wasn’t as important to them as was listening to their clients…working with their vision, feeling what they wanted in their surroundings, evolving with them and giving them that “ah ha” moment. Core values, passion, enthusisam and simple love for their work and what they can do for those that count on them to interpret their vision was purported by each.

They are wonderful role models of people that have found their passion, and know that, although it’s all about them, it’s also not about them at all….

Rather than try any harder to put into my words what they said, I will leave you with some of what they shared and which I noted…but suffice it to say, I left each presentation feeling truly inspired that everything I aspire for, is within reach, as long as I believe in the “dream” and ultimately in myself in my ability to carry it out. Thank you all! Onward.

Thank you WITHIT for bringing Barry Dixon to speak....

“Hope the last thing I do is the Best thing I do…KNOW the first thing I did was the worst.”  Barry Dixon

…..is inspired by what is outdoors and brings it in, ie the indoors reflect the view….

Up close and personal with Kelly Hoppen. (oh, to have those arms!)

“Number One: Need to believe in yourself….don’t wallow in failures, just keep on going”  Kelly Hoppen

Kelly Hoppen: What motivates her? Design is in her blood. Always wants to do better/more. Loves what she does, including making people happy.

“If you succeed you can impact change. If you fail….nobody cares.” Angelo Surmelis

“Just because we don’t have money, we have no taste?”  Mother of Angelo Surmelis…..and sensing a very real part of the creation of his new, very affordable, very fashionable furniture line.

 Click image to go directly to Amazon to purchase Barry’s book.

….Kelly’s first (of several) books. Personal fave with East/West theme….of course.

Websites:

Barry Dixon , Kelly Hoppen, and Angelo Surmelis

NOTE:  Both Kelly and Angelo also have blogs that you may be interested in following. Links to be found on respective websites. Enjoy!