I'm sure I have written about the High Point Furniture Market before...the penultimate furniture event that happens twice a year here in North Carolina. Although it is true that much of the NC furniture manufacturing capacity has moved overseas, and although it is true that Las Vegas has a newer, flashier, competing furniture market...High Point is still king. It is true that I am biased, having been a visitor to the HP market for over 15 years now, but still, the scope and breadth of the market is still astounding despite the challenges.

It is very difficult to say what the overall design trend is this year. Manufacturers are just happy to sell anything right now, whether its "in style" or not. In fact, I guess the overall design trend is "whatever will sell". But thats not a bad thing...instead of pushing out collections to the retailers (like us) that they hope will sell, manufacturers are looking as closely as possible to what is piquing consumers interest. I am going to focus on one particular trend in this post and add more in later updates.

The most obvious trend is an increasing use of organic, reclaimed and recycled materials. This includes the use of cast-off materials in the design and incorporation of life-like, naturalistic designs. Here are a few that we carry that typify this trend.

The Soma Series by Palecek is a "green" collection from Palecek, featuring unique recycled wood plank tops mounted on an iron base in matte chocolate finish. The recycled tops will vary in grain and color, of course. This is a totally fashionable and stylish minimalist design using unique materials, only from Palecek. There is a coffee table, end table, and console table in this collection, and it does indeed reflect a great use of reclaimed material.

In that same spirit, Bago Luma has a wonderful collection of Myrtlewood Furniture, which uses wood that was discovered in a forgotten warehouse. Myrtlewood grows in small groves throughout the coastal areas of Southwestern Oregon and the southern Pacific Coast. The wood was sliced into thick slabs almost 30 years ago, and had been in dry storage since. The shape of the slabs is very irregular and the natural bark is still attached to many pieces. No other hardwood excels myrtlewood in beauty of grain and variety of coloring, and Bago Luma did a great job of incorporating this rescued wood into its designs. (Please call us at 800-205-7819 if you are interested in this collection).

Another one of our absolute favorite suppliers using organic materials is Currey and Company. The Malaga Chandelier is a perfect example of how brilliantly they bring found materials into a design, and not only build around it, but actually build from it for inspiration. This breathtaking chandelier is made from recovered sea urchin spines! I have never seen anything like it, and actually bought one there on the spot in Currey's High Point showroom. The way this chandelier flows, using the elongated shape of the spines, to create a stunning visual presentation, all in a manner that can be incorporated into any number of interior designs. Its exotic and yet accessible. This piece measures 22rd x 42h and, although it is not yet on our site, can be ordered for late spring delivery.

Lastly, a very sophisticated take by Century Furniture, as green a company as I have ever had the pleasure to represent. They incorporate earth-conscious procedures in everything they do, from use of renewable domestic hardwood to recycling every used resource they can. This commitment to the environment is also the essence of the Natural Collection from Century. The delicate balance of enduring design and enduring materials - Long sweeping lines, graceful curves and generous dimensions complemented with luxurious organic fabrics. Handcrafted here in NC from the finest sustainable materials, using time-honored craftsmanship, Century's Natural Collection is a great reflection of how manufacturers can honor the materials from which they are made by bringing the full beauty of that material to the surface. (Please call us at 800-205-7819 if you are interested in this collection).

Next post I'll be exploring some of the color trends that were most prevalent at High Point, as well as some trends in functionality with regards to home office an entertainment.

Some Clearance Goodies

The most visited section of our web site (not surprisingly) is our Clearance Section. It provides a great opportunity to pick up brand-name lighting or furniture items at a huge percentage off list retail. Clearance items are discontinued products, overstock items, or some customer returns. Customer returns are always marked as such, but we guarantee they are in perfect condition. Clearance items are in-stock and ship in 3 days. Here are a few of my favorites:

Golden Lighting Marquis 3 Light Fan Light Kit on Clearance
Free Shipping Discontinued Item on Clearance
$60.21

Comes in Roman Bronze Finish. 12 Dia. x 4.5 H Champagne Glass. Overall Size: 12 W x 6 H. Discontinued Item on Clearance

Slices Collection Console Table Lamp on Clearance
Discontinued Item on Clearance
$68.00

…is a contemporary piece with a hint of the 50's style. It comes in a chrome finish and requires a 1-100W medium base bulb. Discontinued Item on Clearance
Related Searches: Kovacs

Bamboo Magazine Rack by Sadek on Clearance
Discontinued Item on Clearance
$50.00

Minka-Lavery Raiden Wall Sconce on Clearance
Customer Return Perfect Condition
$57.52

Minka Lavery's timeless architectural collection designed for the needs of the 21st Century. Sleek, elegant and meticulous detail distinguishes our Raiden Collection. All Raiden fixtures by Minka Lavery Lighting come in Iron Oxide Finish and Venetian Scavo Glass. This wall sconce holds 1-100W Bulb.…

Oxblood Charger by Sadek on Clearance
Customer Return. No Defects.
$61.39

The beautiful oxblood charger features a deep warm red accented by the unique and ornate pitted edge. Finish color and pattern may vary due to the glazing process.

Lion Bookends by Sadek on Clearance
Discontinued Product
$65.00

Recession-Proof Furniture

I have been around long enough to suffer through three recessions (although this one is the worst of those, in my opinion). As certain as it is that we will eventually pull through this downturn, it is also predictable that we will see lots of media coverage of "returning to the basics". Not that this is a bad thing, on the contrary, but how many articles on the benefits of meatloaf and mashed potatoes can we read? (you know, comfort food and all that). But the basics also include spending more time with friends and family, making things last longer, and shopping smarter. Maybe this was inevitable, given the excesses of the past few years, but its not always a bad thing to revisit the classics across all lifestyle aspects.

Part of this Return to Basics is a resurgence of traditional design, particularly in the home and fashion markets. We see traditional design as longer-lasting, perhaps more conservatively tailored to reflect a more somber mood. But nothing could be farther than the truth! In fact, today's "Traditional" furniture styles incorporate elements from many design influences, and no collection reflects that better than Lexington Furnitures outstanding new Barclay Square Collection.

Taking traditional elements into the new age, the Barclay Square Bedroom features a rich blending of materials and design elements. With supple nail-trimmed leather, bold zebra patterns on upholstered benches, and the warm luster of the Brownstone finish on Rustic Cherry, the collection exudes an air of sophisticated and understated elegance. For example, the Columbia Accent Chest shown at left features a deep cranberry finish behind elegant door with brass inlay and hardware. Its a stunning, classical piece, however, shown with the Kendal Leather Wing Chair, the traditional form takes on a unique and eclectic appearance. This effect is even more prominent when supplemented by the Park Drive Mirror with its captivating sunburst effect.

Another wonderful use of this cranberry hue takes form with the Hyde Park Arm Chair, shown at right surrounding the breathtaking Abingdon Dining Table. Its a picture of traditional elegance, but the designs are augmented with some updated touches to make this furniture truly timeless. Also pictured is are a pair of Greenwhich Display Cabinets, which feature gentle downlights and antiqued glass doors. Modern updates include a fabric-backed interior in linen and chenille.

The recession is a temporary thing, but your furniture will last for years and years. I don't think there is a better choice than The Barclay Square Collection to satisfy your yearning for traditional furniture with a current day influence.

Search Engine Secrets Revealed!

My business consists of equal parts furniture/lighting sales and search engine marketing (SEM). Without SEM, our business would not have the national reach that it does. Well over 75% of our sales are to customers across the country who find us via the internet. They find us because we invest money in advertising with Google, Yahoo, and MSN. They also find us because of our Search Engine Optimization efforts (SEO). SEO is the activity that gets your site higher in the natural search rankings.

Over the 12 years I have been marketing on the internet, I have learned quite a lot, and seen many trends and sites come and go. I shared some of this knowledge with MultiChannel Merchant, one of the leading trade magazines about the incredibly challenging and diverse world of marketing through the internet, catalogs and retail stores. You can find the article here and I have copied it below. Not sure if I am allowed to do that, actually, but I wrote the article so we will see. Anyway, there are no secrets to SEO, just common sense. I hope that came out in the article because I would hate for Google or anyone else to think that I have some sort of secret process to get high rankings. In fact, for many keywords I consistantly fail to get on the first page (but then on others, we do quite well. Its a trade off on what is the most important to your business). Here is the article, again as it appears in MultiChannel Merchants latest edish:

Carolina Rustica CEO Spills SEO Secrets

Apr 6, 2009 3:55 PM, By Richard Sexton

The rise of personalized search (a la Google), social networking platforms, and consumers’ increasing reliance on local and mobile search have created new opportunities to gain visibility for your Website through good SEO. This past January alone, more than 60 million people used their mobile devices to access online information. With good SEO, your Website has a significant opportunity to be found by these users.

SEO also plays a role in maximizing your search engine marketing budget. Put another way, SEO is more cost-effective than paid search programs.

For example, the .10/click we paid for our keywords in 1997 is $3/click today for the same keywords. And there is no end to the number of new competitors we see every year, which further drives up the cost of these terms for our paid search campaigns.

So how can i-merchants perform good SEO easily and cost-effectively?

My list of best practices brings together SEO, paid search and other practices, as true SEO does not operate in a vacuum. It’s also generated from more than a decade of operating my furniture and lighting retail Website, Carolinarustica.com.

Content is king
This is the single most important consideration for optimizing your Website. Yet it’s amazing how many Website owners and designers neglect Website content.

You should be an expert on the products you sell, and be able to address any conceivable questions customers may have, either on your product pages, or in your FAQ’s, or elsewhere. Including customer reviews on your site is a great way to accomplish this.

Also, make your site informative and straightforward, and other folks will not only want to visit your site, but they may link to it from their own sites and blogs.

Pay-per-click
Although PPC programs do not technically count as SEO endeavors, they are an important step in bringing potential customers to your site, and work with your SEO efforts to generate Website traffic. Your immediate PPC efforts are directed towards converting those visitors you have paid for into customers. But the secondary effect of PPC is that you are generating interest in your site, whether those visitors buy or not.

We continue to dedicate a large portion of our SEM budget to Google AdWords. This is not only for conversions, but because those paid visitors are bookmarking our site and many are placing orders at a later point in time—or they’re telling a family member or friend about us. PPC can act as a catalyst for viral marketing of your site even if you are not measuring immediate conversions.

On-site search and site champion
We use a third-party Software-as-a-Service (SAAS) provider called SLI Systems for our on-site search. SLI has developed a technology called “Learning Search” that provides the most relevant search results when visitors are looking for specific products on our site.

SLI has another hosted service, Site Champion, which is critical to our SEO efforts. Site Champion creates landing pages of search results for particular keywords on our Website. Those landing pages can be indexed by most search engines and actually appear in the first or second page of search results when customers are searching the Web using those same keywords.

Site Champion generated more than 25,000 leads to our site in the first quarter of 2009, with customers clicking on Google, Yahoo, and MSN search results for keywords such as “shell chandelier” or “countertop brackets.” This approach is much more cost effective than bidding for top placement for those same terms on the search engines, which allows us to allocate our PPC budget to other keywords that don’t rank as well.

What’s more, these search results tend to convert well since the customer is directed to a landing page that is basically an on-site search result—not a generic company page. We continue to rely on Site Champion as our third-most significant vehicle for site referrals.

Paid inclusion
Carolina Rustica also uses paid inclusion, which involves a third party taking our raw product feed and essentially reformatting it for optimal placement on specific search engines. This is a paid service, independent of PPC efforts, and it gives us an acceptable conversion rate for our investment.

Best of all, it involves virtually no effort on our part after we have set up the product feed. We use a company called Booyah for this service.

Analyze and optimize
You can’t improve SEO without understanding the dynamics of your site’s traffic. And you can’t beat Google Analytics for providing an in-depth snapshot of your Website dynamics.

Google Analytics is linked to our AdWords account so we can see how our AdWords spend converts into sales, but just as important, Google Analytics looks at our other sources of paid and non-paid traffic to examine those same dynamics. It’s also a great way to measure and compare your site’s performance over segments of time.

E-mail campaigns
E-mails can help your SEO efforts by generating interest and traffic to your site. Websites that deluge new customers with e-mails day after day, however, face diminishing returns and higher opt-out rates.

We send out e-mails to our 30,000 contacts when we have something interesting or unique to offer—about once a month. Our click-through rate is higher as a result, and this further helps with SEO. We use Vertical Response for our e-mail service.

Blogs
Blogging is one of the easiest ways to generate content for your site, and you control it 100%. With a blog, you can create your own third-party site that points to your main site.

You should focus on topics that are important to your site’s visibility, but also add content that is a little more daring or personal than what you may have on your Website. I try to write at least an article a week for our blog, http://carolinarustica.blogspot.com. We use Google’s free Blogger, which makes it easy to add content.

You can also promote your Website through other people’s blogs that are relevant to your industry. Try exchanging articles or using a sweepstakes for blog readers, which is always appreciated. While search engines frown upon paid links, creating useful and relevant links on other blogs to original content on your site is a great way to increase your site’s visibility.

Affiliate programs
We are just beginning to explore affiliate programs, but I believe they can help your site’s SEO endeavors by the propagation of coupon sites that use affiliate networks to provide coupon content.

Two of the largest coupon sites, Retailmenot.com and CouponMountain.com, don’t rely on affiliates, but there is a host of others that do—and more are appearing every month. Coupon sites provide inbound links to your site, but you need to determine you can afford the cost of the affiliate programs and the decreased profit margin generated by coupons.

Social networking
If you sell products or services targeted towards Gen Y, Z or beyond, social networking via youth-oriented sites like Facebook is an extremely cost-effective pursuit. Twitter, which everyone seems to be using, can also give your site increased exposure by links to your company blog and updates (tweets) on genuinely newsworthy events. Other more targeted social networking platforms such as LinkedIn provide exposure to more technically oriented communities.

Social networking sites are built primarily on user-generated content (UGC), however, and this may be out of your control to moderate. We have found YouTube to be a great platform for our business, since our furniture and lighting lends itself to a more visual presentation.

Wikis
Pioneered by Wikipedia, wikis are sites that provide non-commercial, non-promotional content—just the facts. I can say with certainty that wikis cannot hurt, particularly if you are trying to make some clarification about your business or Website.

But wikis may not be the best avenue unless you have a compelling, unique story to tell. If you have customers or suppliers who want to tell your story for you on wikis, however, they can become a good source of inbound content.

SEO is a long-term endeavor. My list, while not exclusive, provides useful ways to build your site’s visibility.

The relevance of your site is determined primarily by others, so your SEO efforts should be directed at getting other Websites to link to you. You should also be using third-party platforms and services to enhance your overall visibility and measure your success.

Richard Sexton (richard@carolinarustica.com) is president/CEO of furniture and home decor merchant Carolina Rustica.

Emerging Styles and Trends from Golden Lighting

This article was provided to us from Golden Lighting, one of our preferred lighting suppliers who is really making an impact on the lighting world. Golden Lighting is recognized as one of the hottest new lighting companies to come along in years. Combining outstanding designs with accessible pricing, Golden Lighting offers exceptional value for "everyday lighting for everyday living". Golden Lighting features collections with stunning combinations, such as white marble glass and pewter, a classic fusion. The simple curves create a traditional and familiar feel but with a fresh approach. These fixtures are the perfect complement for any decor. Rubbed bronze is perfectly paired with the tea stone glass in another combination that freshens up a very classy look. The elegant curves and delicate filigrees give this collection a refined touch. Rubbed Bronze with while marble glass is also a classic look with its simple curves and delicate features. A trendy rubbed bronze finish sets off the white marble glass for a more contemporary look.

This article is from a recent Newsletter sent to us by Golden Lighting, written by Carolina Lares, their product designer. It has some great insights as to current trends and concerns that are shaping the lighting world.

With our commitment to provide our customers with great product and great service, we dedicate time to research the current and future styles, as well as, color trends to pick the right material, the right finish and the right style that applies to all our new designs; providing our customers with the latest information and new product that fits the needs of the actual market and the emerging market trends.

The necessity for a greener planet, the world concern about the economical situation, and the optimism for a better future played a very important roll in the 2009 color and trend forecast. Trend watchers see furniture styles going every where, from modern to traditional, from regency to country, from ethnic to eclectic styles. This proves that consumers are not driven by trendy styles. They care more for a home decor that shows their personality and taste, but at the same time, they demand for products that are truly Green because they want to live responsibly and committed to the environment. On the other hand, the economical crisis pushed consumers to play safer when decorating their homes and it resulted in an emerging trend for styles that are classic such as the traditional and the contemporary.

Today’s emerging traditional style combine intense colors with unexpected materials and metallic accents over simplified silhouettes, creating a fresh and updated look to the traditional décor. Organic materials, shapes and colors borrowed from nature, are playing an important role in any interior decoration. Today’s emerging modern style is inspired by the printed patterns from the late 1960s and early 1970s and it is moving towards the classic modern. It emphasizes the geometric shapes such as angles, squares, rectangles, circles and clean lines used during the groovy movement from last century. The usage of bright colors and the contrast of a single color against black creating psychedelic patterns will become more prominent. This style will also include paisleys, flowers, mini-print floral and pop art. Ethnic styles still popular and they go from Asia to Moroccan to Mexican to Latin American and when is combined with a traditional style creates a more casual and transitional look. The eclectic style still very common, it allows consumers to incorporate in their home décor elements and or items that have different styles that reflects their own personality.

The color trends watchers see 2009 colors ranging from lilac mauve to cool olive with purple being the most prevalent; this color will open the doors for the country style. Metallic and neutral colors are still in, as well as pastel colors. However, the last ones will be more saturated. The lemon color, one of the new pastels, will be more edgy than in the past, as well, as more complex; it will show a deep influence of gray and green and is expected to be the more predominant. Metallic colors will be very important from now on, especially with the growing usage of the neutral colors. The new metal colors are platinum, dark silver (pewter) and gold. The gold colors will get stronger and reddish such as rose gold and copper, while basic silver will decline. Blue is another color that will grow stronger in the future and it will replace the green. The neutral colors will stay in but the grays will become cooler and eventually they will replace the browns. Bright colors from exotic ethnical countries like India, China and Turkey, such as reds, oranges, turquoise and yellows will be very vivid and will provide us with the optimism needed during the actual economical crises.

All the above information was considered when we designed and decided to introduce our latest three fixture families, Genevieve, Loretto and Portland. Their style, finish and material are a conclusion to on our dedicated research into market trends. The gold metallic finishes from Loretto and Genevieve combined with the organic frames and the flower inspiration for the glass place these two families “right on spot” of the current and emerging trends. Portland accentuates the organic shapes using a finish that creates contrast between the frame, the ornamental elements and the glass providing glamorous elegance to any room with each piece.

We think that Golden Lighting is certainly one of your best options when finding the right balance between style, budget, and environmental concerns. Shop for Golden Lighting by clicking here

An Unexpected Media Appearance

The High Point Furniture Market, like the Dallas Lighting Market, occurs twice a year on basically the same schedule.  It is a frantic week for buyers like myself, but an even busier month for the furniture manufacturers and sales reps who have to prepare for the onslaught.  I know from past experience how grueling it can be for the manufacturers, importers, and distributors that maintain showrooms (someday I'll blog about my short tenure as Vice-President of Sales and Marketing for one of our major suppliers).

There are also lots of educational opportunities for buyers at the market.  The National Home Furnishings Association is one of our important industry trade groups that provides resources and seminars to industry members, and maintains a big presence at the market.  If buyers have the time, there are some great opportunities to learn more about marketing, merchandising, finance and retail operations. There are also speakers (I spoke with the Goddess herself, Martha Stewart, at the last one!) and entertainment.

During the October 2008 High Point Furniture Market, I was a guest speaker at one of NHFA's seminars, presenting with Mike Lorenc from Google regarding our use of Google AdWords to promote the business.  We gave a basic overview of how other businesses could also use AdWords.  Maybe I just gave ammunition to our competition, but I don't think so. This article appeared in the National Home Furnishings Association's NHFA Retailer magazine, March 2009 issue (page 51). This nice article summarizes how we use Google AdWords and how we measure the success of that program.   Our business would not exist in its current form without programs like AdWords, and the ability to analyze the return on investment for these programs is especially important during slower sales cycles such as the one we are in right now.

The First of March

Now admittedly, February is not usually our strongest month.   Valentine's Day is a big event for lots of customers, and we all look forward to it as a way to chase away the winter blah's.   So retailers jump on the chance to promote Presidents Day Sales (which we did) as a way to bolster business.  Our sale was primarily focused on a factory-authorized Lexington Home Brands sale.  Actually, I just noticed that the sale banner was still up.  Sigh. 

Anyway, that promotion was definitely a help, but this February was still pretty slow.  Our manufacturer reps have told me that February orders just fell off a cliff for everyone, across all types of stores.   Large retailers, mom-and-pops, and the in-betweens like Carolina Rustica.   Basically, there was nothing good in the news to give folks an incentive to re-decorate or upgrade their furnishings or lighting.   I think we should take an opposite tack, and this should be the time for us to reinvest in those little things at home that make us happy, whether its a new accent lamp, a cutting board, or that Barcalounger you have always wanted!  After all (and I am trying not to sound irresponsible, but...) investing in furniture is certainly than anything else you could put your money into!  Instead of stuffing under a mattress...buy a new Spring Air Mattress!  You'll still have plenty left over to stuff somewhere else, at least if you shop from us.

Anway, February has drawn to a close and we can all take a breath and get ready for March, which is living up to its credo "In Like a Lion, Out Like a Lamb".  As I look out the window, we are getting a dumping of white stuff, unusual for the Carolinas this time of year.  Actually, it looks quite lovely, and I think I will enjoy the moment and we'll let March take care of itself.

Our Ceiling Fan Give-Away Was a Hit!

We recently finished a give-away sweepstakes with one of my favorite design sites, My Design Secrets. This is a great resource for shoppers looking to decorate using a particular style as a benchmark. Lorrie has an encyclopedic knowledge of design motifs, styles, and resources.   I recommend it, even though it might point to our competitors!  

Anyway, we gave away a beautiful Emerson Palazzo ceiling fan.  All you had to do was go onto our site and select one or two items for your "wish list", let us know what it was, and boom!  you were entered into the contest (managed by My Design Secrets) We were so pleased by the impressive turn out and response. The winner of this gorgeous ceiling fan was in shock and simply ecstatic as you can tell by her reaction below:

"WOW!! I'm so excited; this will look so good in my living room! Thank you so much!!"

Sheila H.

But she was the only one who was excited. Below are all the great reviews and comments of the products we carry.  Now mind you, I have only copied the first 100 comments!  We actually had 3 times that in the drawing!

Ali Says:
The first item on my wishlist would be the Charleston Forge Retreat Bookcase- because it’s gorgeous, and it goes with my stuff!
The next would be the Hunter Kenroy Fountain - Floor - Weathered Sphere - because it’s just cool, and I’ve always wanted a fountain.
FWIW- the fan would look great in my livingroom!

Kim Says:
I love the Tommy Bahama Curacao Reef collection - and the armoire and triple dresser would definitely be the two items at the top of my list!

Carol Says:
The Corsican Rabbit Blanket Holder and the Corsican Traditional Cradle are my faves

Debbie Says:
I like both Lexington amoires because, it is a great way to organize blankets and pillows.

Katharina Says:
My two choices are:
(1) Trump Home Westchester Cortlandt Manor Executive Desk … because it’s soooo much nicer than my current desk :)

and (2) Bauer Stiles Brothers Library because I have a spot in my home where it would look incredibly beautiful.

mineola Says:
John Boos Pro Prep Bloc Work Table

Charleston Forge Provincial Coffee Table

They top my wish list!!!!! :)

Baba Says:
Tommy Bahama Kingstown Bonaire Round Extension Dining Table
Product#: 621-870C is looking wonderful for the Stone House project. It would fit with the Victorian look we are after. And also Emerson Julianne Ceiling Fan in Aged Walnut
Product#: CF220AGW because we are going to need another for the Stone House and I love the look of this one!

Cheryl F Says:
I love the Palecek Hudson Leather Ottoman, I’ve been wantng a large one like this for awhile and it would go great with the decor I have. I also like the Designers Fountain Savannah Island Light, I’ve been wanting to put a light over the bar and this would be perfect.

Nadine L Says:
I really like the Iron Bowl by Bago Luma and the Denby Everyday Black Pepper 16 Pc Set.

Wanda Says:
Wow! So many beautiful things! The Tommy Bahama Rumba del Sol Chest on Chest is at the top of my List, because of its lovely style, gorgeous color, and enormous capacity. It has features that make it ideal for coping with modern life!
Also at the top, and not necessarily second, is the Palecek Bar Harbor Rocker, which I would use indoors. I have long wanted a rocker because they are a “comfort” item that takes me back to a simpler, more homey time. I would choose premium options for the cushions so that anyone sitting in this chair would feel coddled and at rest.
Wonderful giveaway! I love the ceiling fan, too, and would put it to very good use. Thank you.

Brandlyn Says:
Tommy Bahama Armoire and the Stiles Brother Library. SO many things to choose from. I love everything!

Jacquelyn Cannon Says:
My favorite are the Bauer Stiles Brothers Library and the Bauer Bedroom Furniture.

Janet Adams Says:
My husband needs a new recliner. It needs to be real comfy because he has to sleep in it. He has a bad back and can no longer sleep in a bed. Barcaloungers Rio Chase recliner, product #7-6609 looks very comfy. I also like the Cooper Classics Franklin round wall clock, product #coop4419. It has very large numbers, easy to read and stylish. These two items are at the top of my extensive wish list.

Linda White Says:
melody bedframe set

Stacey Brown Says:
My favorite are the Bauer Stiles Brothers Library and the Bauer Bedroom Furniture.

Pat Ramey Says:
there are so many beautiful crafted things.
everything is so gorgeous!
My choice would be The Tommy Bahama del Sol Chest on chest, and Bauer bedroom furniture. If I ever win the lotto, guess what store I will be shopping!

Angela C Says:
Since I have mismatched bedroom furniture…I would love love love to have this…Tommy Bahama Home Collection Seven Day Chest of Drawers and this…Tommy Bahama Home Collection Island Breeze Dresser. Absolutely GORGEOUS!
Thanks!

Shilo Beedy Says:
I love the Bauer Stiles Brothers Library to put all my books in. I also love the Bauer Barbados Writing Desk do do my writing at. I have always wanted a desk like that.

Jennifer B. Says:
I like the triple vanity lights and the Lexington Zacara Baltic Buffet.

Theresa Shafer Says:
Minka Aire Napoli II Ceiling Fan in Tuscan Patina. Nice design and would look attractive in our dining area which needs a lighted fan.
Tommy Bahama Rumba del Sol Chest on Chest. An ideal piece, in that I have limited floor and a tall dresser would allow lots of storage.

Chris Says:
I love the Bridgehampton series. It all looks so cool and crisp.

Carolyn G Says:
I really like the John Boos Standing Butcher’s PCA Block (24×24) . I need one in the kitchen for that extra counter space.

Ken Robinson Says:
My wish list would include the Bauer Stiles Brothers Workstation 8′ and Bauer Stiles Brothers Bookcase. Please accept my entry. Thank you.

Mary DeBorde Says:
What beautiful items - hard to pick just two!
Okay, I would definitely pick the Barbados Armoire and the Fine Art Lamps Belgrave Square Bath light!!!

Rita M Says:
Oh my goodness! What a great website - I bounced from page to page and must have changed my picks 6 or 7 times. My first pick would have to be the Tommy Bahama Home Collection Sea Breeze Round Dining Table and a very close second would be the Sarreid Chatham Crossing Double Bookcase with the Marble Top.

MRS.MOMMYY Says:
World of Bob Timberlake King Size Piedmont Bed and the high dresser….because we need new furniture and a new bed would be a blessing instead of just the frame we use

Linz Says:
Difficult to find one favorite - but if I have to decide on one its the Bauer Cricket Club Sofa

Katt Says:
I just moved and have a formal dining room for the first time. I would like to furnish it with the Trump Home Westchester Irvington Rectangular Dining Table. I would also get the matching buffet/sideboard. Thanks!

jess Says:
I lvoe the tommy bahama armoir and the Charleston Forge Provincial Coffee Table. thanks so much!

adrienne Gordon Says:
Bauer Barrel Chair Upholstered would look great in our livingroom.Casablanca Bungalow Ceiling Fan is soemthing that fits with our sunroom.

GINA FANN Says:
Youve got to be joking only two favorite things off this site .I found lots and lots just in living room and bedroom. But i made a choice of only two so here it is. TOMMY BAHAMA KINGSTOWN TRAFALGAR ARMOIRE AND INDUS BED,KING SIZE BY WESLEY ALLEN. That was so hard to choose.

djgroz Says:
BarcaLounger Galaxy Swivel Lounger/Mine recliner has bit the dust and I need a new one!
Wright Design Fireplace Screen/my son has a fireplace and this would makea nice birthday present.
Thanks for the great contest

Barbara McCrea Says:
At the top of my wish list would have to be the John Boos Cucina Classico Maple Top Table, I have been wanting a new kitchen Island and My husband would be able to get up to it even in his wheelchair.
susan varney Says:
queen ann chairs and i also like the glass coffee tables

mickeyfan Says:
Oh man, they have Cal King headboards!!! I really like the Remington. We’ve also been looking at ceiling fans, and I like the Kichler Cottage Grove. (Tho I have to say the one you’re giving away is GORGEOUS!)

Janice Whitaker Says:
Sarreid Chatham Crossing Long Console Trunk With Iron Fittings
Sarreid Chatham Crossing Small Bookcase With Glass Panel Doors

Deborah R Says:
We recently bought a 1920s home and are working to restore it - a couple of thing that would look great in our home are the Barcelona Bar Table Base by Bago Luma and the Lexington Hancock Park Hillcrest Entertainment & Bedroom Armoire, Cognac Finish.

Cathy W. Says:
I have interior damage to my fireplace and have been told that I should have been using in insert to protect against high heat damage. I never knew anything like that even existed. Carolina Rustica has several of these inserts and I love the Pennsylvania Firebacks Large Oak Fireback one. They also have the Pennsylvania Firebacks Fireback Saf-T-Boots which allows the insert to be placed at any angle preferred. I was interested to learn that the inserts also help heat the room.

The site is wonderful and they have many things that I love. Thanks for the awesome giveaway.

June Says:
I love this design..Carolina Rustic…would go beautiful in my bedroom The design makes the fan blend into the room not just a black spot on the ceiling.

Jaque Says:
Top on my list is the classic Tommy Bahama Kingstown Warmick Sofa. I do need a new sofa, but I want this because it is gorgeous! My second is the BarcaLounger Presidential Recliner, this is just so retro and is the epitomy of luxury!

Thank you so very much for this opportunity…love the ceiling fan! :)

Nancy Kee Says:
Casablanca Bungalow Ceiling Fan
Jewelry for my bedroom
Time for a decorating Plan
Couldn’t come too soon!

jeannie Says:
I desperately need new furniture. I love the Bauer Cape Town Dresser and the Lexington Hancock Park Carson Sofa. Both are just beautiful! Thank you for the wonderful giveaway.

Len Massey Says:
I think the George Kovacs Torii Collection 3 bulb Bath light would look great in my new bathroom and I would probably get the Grandfather Clock by Bago Luma Product#: WMC274 for my mother. She has always wanted a grandfather clock and this awesome looking one would surely fit her taste. Thanks for this great giveaway, I already have a place to put this classic fan!

Mary M Says:
The Lexington Long Cove Midnight Series
Seabury Dresser and
Lake Shores Chest ~
because I love the style and
I’ve been longing for new bedroom furniture for years and years!
TU for the giveaway!

pammyb Says:
I really like the Landmark Lighting Buckingham Collection Island Light in Antique Silver and the Cooper Classics Royston Mirror — could use both of them — THANKS FOR THE GIVEAWAY !!!!!!

Kenneth Scoville Says:
What wonderful products. I LOVE the Thayer Coggin Design Classic Left Sectional Loveseat. Would go great with exixting pieces in our family room. The Quoizel Duchess 5 light chandelier matches the lighting in our kitchen beautifully. I will probably order this piece when we get our tax refund. We have the perfect room for your ceiling fan which we hope to win.

Ly Taing Says:
1. John Boos Solid Walnut Gathering Block - beautiful, beautiful. I’d love this for my kitchen because I have a real love for all things “solid” and “rugged”. It’s so expensive, though!

2. Saeco Primea Ring Espresson & Coffee Maker - Beautiful piece of machine. A bit too over the top for the home but hey, you gotta go for the best!

Caroline Rustica has too many great things to pick from! Wish I had a bigger pocket book. Hahaha

Donna S. Says:
Trump Home Central Park Riverside Entertainment Hutch because I hate the one I have and this one is beautiful AND Veranda Collection Cocktail Table from Uwharrie Chair because I would love to have a beautiful table for outside.

Lisa L Says:
Palecek Campaign Daybed & Ziba Rugs
Hand-Knotted Wool Rug, Zebra Pattern because at least I can dream about such cool furniture and rug in
my humble home.
Love to be able to buy all that I listed.

Jason C Says:
I could use the Barcaloungers Rio Chase recliner and the Sarreid Chatham Crossing Long Console Trunk With Iron Fittings.

Sharon H Says:
What cool place! I could spend all day just looking!
I love the Bauer Stiles Brothers Steamer Headboard & Bauer Steamer Armoire !
Thanks for the chance to win the fan - I would love this for my parents dining room!

Andrea D. Says:
I just love this site! So many items would match our house just perfect!I I have been looking for bar stools and I found these: Palecek Rustic Cane Swivel Barstool.
Everything is so beautiful. The other item would have to be something we could put over the pool table:
Landmark Lighting Santa Fe Collection 3-Light Island Light
Thanks for the great contest!

Patricia C Says:
I’m thinking about Summer, sick of the Winter. I like the Companion Series Arbor from Uwharrie Chair, I can imagine how beautiful it would be with morning glories twining up the arbor. I also love the Chat Collection 54-Inch Table from Uwharrie Chair, it would be perfect for card games and frozen lemonade during the dog days of summer.

Thomas Dillen Says:
My wish list would have the Tommy Bahama Kingstown Trafalgar Armoire on it. It is a elagant Armoire that would be perfect for my Mother.

It would also have the Tommy Bahama Kingstown Port Royal Desk on it for me. It is the perfect size and would make a great focal point for my Office. Great website thanks for sharing.

allan Says:
Solid Walnut Gathering Block and Landmark Lighting Buckingham Collection Island Light in cooper

Kara Says:
My first wish list item woud be the Classic Bakers Rack by Bago Luma. I have always wanted a bakers rack and this one has everything that I want. My second item would be the Spring Air Sonoma Deluxe Euro Pillow Top Mattress Set in king. My husband and I have worn valleys into our current queen mattress. We are in desperate need of higher sleeping ground - and more elbow room :)

Cathy C Says:
Oh my gosh, how terrific! This is very hard with all the wonderful things to look at there, but as I am trying to update the light fixtures in a new (old) house, I would choose these as tops on my wish list:
1. Second Avenue Adrianna Chandelier with Crystal, in the French Bronze finish (for my dining room!)
2. Hinkley Lighting Landscape Path Lights, the lovely bird ones in the Sienna Bronze finish (at least 4 of them for my front path…we are supposed to WISH, aren’t we?)
Actually, that fan would be PERFECT for my family room!
Thanks for the chance to win it!

Karen E Says:
At the top of my wish list is the Lexington Zacara Queen Size Icon Panel Bed. Then of course I would have to have the dressers that go with it, making the Lexington Zacara Lowell Dresser, the Lexington Zacara Berkeley Chest, the Lexington Zacara Anatole Armoire and the Lexington Zacara Perry Bedside Chest items 2, 3,4, and 5 on my list. The rich color of the wood together with the clean lines makes the entire set ideal in my eyes.

christopher h Says:
the Denby Everyday Black Pepper 16 Pc Set & the Sarreid Chatham Crossing Small Bookcase With Glass Panel Doors

Kate. S Says:
Elk Lighting Viento Sconce & Designers Fountain Arabella Three-Light Vanity I love the look of these fixtures. Would definitely change the look of my bathrooms.

Mary Gunn Says:
OMGosh what a beautiful fan. I would put this in my dining room so everybody would notice it and it could be a conversation piece at dinner.

Erin Solano Says:
First, I would get the Large Woven Display Case by Bago Luma because it really matches my decor. Second, I would get the Regency Bunching Table Bases Bago because they complement my furniture.

Joan Says:
The Charleston Forge Sculptura Round Cocktail Table is fantastic. I just bought a new sofa and love seat and couldn’t find a table that was sturdy but light-weight looking-the Sculputa would be perfect.
Also, I have been looking for a bistro table for my kitchen and the Johnston Casuals Studio Bistro Table Base and Stools would fit my space and add to the cozy nook I enjoy so much.

Thom G. Says:
My wife and I would love the Lexington Hancock Park Hillcrest Entertainment & Bedroom Armoire for our bedroom and a Pennsylvania Firebacks Large Oak Fireback insert for one of our fireplaces.

Rebecca Graham Says:
The kitchen island and Kitchen block would be at the top of my list cause my kitchen needs updating really badly.

Autumn H. Says:
We are in the process of redecorating everything so 1st up would be this:

Bauer Stiles Brothers Library - although with the price tag of around $3500 it might be awhile until I get it =)
&
BarcaLounger Prestige Recliner

they have such gorgeous stuff!

autumn398 (at) yahoo.com

geekbearinggifts Says:
I think I just found the perfect ceiling fan for our bedroom! I also really like the Linwood Furniture American Classics Sleigh Bed and the Sarreid Chatham Crossing Large Chest of Twelve Drawers. Thank you for the generous offer!

Lindsay S. Says:
Brussels and Sawbridge beds. I love wrought iron beds and now that I have the mattress I’ve wanted for years I’m dying to get a bed frame.

Dillon S. Says:
Lexington Highland martini bar and Johnston impala encore server. I’m looking for a bar for my den and both of these are great.

Jan M. Says:
Lexington juliet sofa and nautica houston sofa. I like both of these sofas because they’re contemporary and have sleek lines. I would like either of them to redo the motif in my living room.

Dan M. Says:
Bauer Bombay nightstand and Bauer Bombay steamer nightstand. I love these nightstands. They are great because they have storage and I love the antique look.

Robin B Says:
The first item we’re interested in is the Standing Wine Chiller by Bago Luma. There’s no in our fridge to keep wine chilled, and this would be very handy. The second item is Urban Iron Bed, Queen Size by Elliott’s Designs. It’s a very attractive, minimalist design that would fit in well in our bedroom.

Steven T Says:
BarcaLounger Prestige Recliner and Cooper Classics Wilson Wall Clock

Carol Lawrence Says:
I picked the Epicurean Cutting Board,12×9 in Olive because I need one for my kitchen. My other item is the 8′ Bauer Stiles Brothers Workstation because I don’t have a place that’s nice to do my sweepstakes.

debi welbon Says:
Tommy Banama Bungalo king size bed with matching mirrored dresser and Linwood furniture american classics regescy pedestal extension table. Why is because we bought a new house and the old furniture - I would just rather not take them with me!

Darlene Says:
I would love furniture (all of it) from the Nautica Heritage collection.

Tracey Byram Says:
Bob Timberlake Salt Aire Planter’s Chest
Elk Lighting Heritage Sconce
Both would be beautiful in my bedroom.

Valerie Furr Says:
Oh my gosh this is an awesome site. I will be back. I love the fan it is very unique but a lot of the things on here are one of a kind.
I love the lamps especially the Meyda Tiffiany Lamp and the stone ware was really nice I liked the Beny Fire Chilli mugs. There was so many things I could have picked a lot from the site. We need a fan in our bedroom so bad and this one is just gorgeous.

Quanda Says:
I love the Tommy Bahama Kingstown Malabar Bed-King and the Tommy Bahama Kingstown Stony Point Dresser because of the quality craftsmanship of these items and because I need to replace my bedroom furniture.

david basile Says:
Corbett Outdoor Lighting

Messermeister Park Plaza Chef’s Knife, 8

Linda Lansford Says:
George Kovacs Tower Collection 4-Light Chandelier II
Product#: P374-615B

Rolled Arm Love Seat by Bago Luma
Product#: WSF219

My home is getting dated and thes items would spruce it up.

Brandy Says:
I really like this chandelier: Quoizel Lily 5 light Chandelier
I also like the Casablanca Mission Ceiling Fan

Janice Golden Says:
I would love to have a couple of the Barco lougers they look fantastic
We are making a den in the basement and they would be great

Maureen Hartsock Says:
i would love the furnitur form nautica heritage

Nita Says:
These 2 items would be great for my new home office/guest room.

Blake Sleeper Daybed by Wesley Allen
World of Bob Timberlake Bookcase

Sarah Says:
I’d get the Wright Design Fireplace Screen, it would go great with mine and the Charleston Forge Provincial Coffee Table because the one in my living room is on it’s last legs!

Deb Stewart Says:
I love any of the Tommy Bahama furniture, good quality

Cynthia Rockwell Says:
I would really like to have the John Boos Le Rustica American Cherry Work Table. It’s absolutely lovely and would add some much needed work space in my kitched. The Bauer Schooner Desk is another favorite. I would use this beautiful desk to replace my old, not so pretty, worn out one.

Vicky Boackle Says:
i love the iron and brass bed because mine is ancient and ugly.i also love the oeuf crib for a new baby on the way.

Joni L Says:
These are my faves, they would keep my everday need to use stuff hidden away and I would know exactly where to find it instead of stashing it out of sight and forgetting where that was.

Lexington Zacara Cielo End Table - style + function = I’ll take 3

Lexington Zacara Savoy Writing Desk with theLexington Zacara Savoy Box of Drawers for thing iin it’s place.

Susan C Says:
The Bauer Rangoon Bookcase would be on the top of my list, first because it’s gorgeous, and also, because I need more space for books. I also love the Spring Air Inspriration Super Pillow Top Mattress because it looks so comfortable!
Eleanor Twiss Says:
The Charleston Forge or the Bauer Console table for my foyer.

Kim Says:
I’d get the Lexongton Hancock Park Carson sofa to replace my crummy one that’s way past its prime. I’d also get a Ziba wool rug to warm up my front room.

Nicole Acuna Says:
Everything is just so beautiful!!! My top 2 are Palmer Home Palm Canyon Diego Rectangular Cocktail Table (because if its amazing craftsmanship, color and the fact there is plenty of storage space inside) and the Trump Home Westchester Queen Size Hastings Panel Bed. I LOVE the color and design of the wood and it looks so elegant definatly a must have.

Diana Says:
I love the Nantucket Collection Swing from Uwharrie Chair and Original Series Chaise Lounge from Uwharrie Chair for my back deck. these are lovely. thanks!

amber Says:
What a gorgeous fan! So pretty. I also like the Oxford Canopy Bed, and the Bauer Stiles Brothers Bookcase. Thanks!!

Denise Says:
The chairs in the Nantuckett Collection would look fab on my porch. Beautiful stuff all around! Thank you!!

kimberly b Says:
I like the Charleston Forge Provincial Coffee Table and the Bauer bedroom furniture.

McKim Says:
I would love the Hart Square Collection queen poster bed for our bedroom and the Birmingham queen bed for my spare bedroom. Neither bedroom has a headboard or footboard and I’ve always dreamed of having them.

andy Says:
I really like the Linwood Furniture Turento Collection 2-Door Chest/Amoire (desk and storage) and the Emerson Crown Ceiling Fan. Either would fill a need at my house.

Interior Design Society - IDS

We (Carolina Rustica) are trade members of IDS, the Interior Design Society, based here in High Point, NC.   The IDS describes itself as an "independent national organization more than 4,000 members strong. One of the country's largest design organizations dedicated to serving the residential interior design industry, the Interior Design Society offers members community, education and business support. Founded in 1973 by the National Home Furnishings Association (NHFA) to support interior designers based within furniture stores, the Interior Design Society has long since expanded its focus. All qualified residential design professionals, including those who work in a retail environment, are welcome and encouraged to join IDS as an adjunct to their classroom education"

The Charlotte Chapter of the IDS is a great mix of design professionals, trade affiliates, and showrooms like Carolina Rustica.  We have only been a member for a few months, but I enjoy the meetings tremendously, and have reconnected with some designers I knew from over 10 years ago when I had Himal Home Gallery on Kings Drive in Charlotte.

There are two main designer trade groups, IDS being one and the American Society of Interior Designers, or ASID, being the other.   ASID is perhaps a little more established, and its certainly older, but I like the peppiness of IDS.   I think IDS is perhaps a little more casual as well.   Each has a place in the design world, however, and its a pity the two rival organizations are not the best of pals (putting it mildly).   We intend to become trade affiliates with ASID as well, when I have the time to go to the meetings on a regular basis.

At Carolina Rustica, about 15% of our business is done through the trade.  And that number is growing, especially as mid-market consumers cut back.    Typically, your upper end customers work through designers, but that does not have to be the case.  Actually, interior designers work on all levels and are happy to accomodate almost any budget.  Here is another insight: Interior Designers can save you money.  Its true!  Many are able to negotiate discounted pricing with showrooms and dealers like Carolina Rustica, and some (but not all, of course) may pass those savings through to you.  If you are doing a large room with lots of items to purchase, this can actually result in significant savings,  especially if your designer is working by the hour.

Each designer works on a different basis for renumeration.  Some get a percentage back from the showroom or retailer.  Some work on an hourly basis.  Some set a price for the job.  It really depends, and as I mentioned earlier, they are very flexible in terms of working within your budget.  And of course, the results are wonderful.  After all, that is what they have trained for, and it is rigorous training indeed.

So go ahead and contact a designer, whether he or she is IDS or ASID or any of the other certifying organizations...and get started on your dream room!

We are #2!!

Remember those great "we try harder" ads by Avis? There was something about those we could all relate to, I think, because we have all been #2 or #3 for most things in life. When I run marathons, I am happy to finish in the top 100, and I run very small marathons. Anyway, we are truly honored to be the second-best small business in Cabarrus County. I really mean that! The Cabbarus Chamber of Commerce is a great group of people who really have the best interests of the local businesses in mind. They are committed to measured and balanced growth, and sincere in their support of the local business scene.  They have local job postings, weekly meetings, ribbon-cuttings, and much more. So, when we were nominated for "Small Business of the Year", it really was an honor. We went through a long application process and went to the awards ceremony, and met lots of other great local businesses. Our hats off to the winner, Southgate Masonry. I pass them every day on the way to our showroom. It looks like a great business doing well in tough times. Anyway, hope springs eternal and we will certainly try harder next year. Meanwhile, we shall bask in the glow of being #2.