I'm an ecstatic 58-year old who is embarking on a second career...ecstatic because after 32 years of teaching, there is rampant discovery around every corner. Yes, there is life after retirement, and for me it consists of developing an import furniture store, a franchise company of the same, and a manufacturing company. Not only am I surrounded by beautiful objects, but I get to attend markets all over the country--and in the process I can spend money like a wild Banshee with few consequences other than my daughter's disapproval. (not really...but my daughter is also my business partner and her daily challenge is keeping me in line.)
So now I'm about to post my first picture ever on my first blog ever, and this is an exciting historical moment for me. Not as historical as Gustav who is a few hundred miles away and trying to rain down on my parade, but we've "hunkered down" (always hated that hurricane phrase) and are hoping for the best.
Here goes.
One of our design concepts at 505 Imports is Coastal Cottage, and this is one room setting from the 505 showroom a few months ago.I love the turquoise ceramic stools from Emissary, and the silver philodendron leaves and carved blue case from Tozoi make such a statement!!
Another coastal setting with soothing blue and a pop of orange. Vicki Singletary, a local artist in Lake Charles, provided a beautiful oil painting that captured the essence of summer. Her original art in our store creates a classy vibe that really showcases her talent and our hand-crafted furniture at the same time. I wish I could be on that orange lounge chair on the beach right now--but then again, maybe not...since Gustav is knocking at our door.
This nature inspired setting features a reclaimed teak canopy bench that I designed for a client in Galveston. The canopy has handmade carvings of palm trees across the top and some beautiful "old paint" across the teak--very organic looking with eco-friendly "reclaimed"materials, but it's more than eco-chic--the beauty and character of Indonesian reclaimed teak is amazing!!
I've been into summer and coastal and nature for so many months without being the least bit bored... it's difficult to switch gears now for fall and (gasp!) Christmas. But it's time to say goodbye and move on...even though it's 96 degrees outside.
My first blog was short but oddly satisfying..to me anyway. Hopefully, I will get the hang of this, and there will be many more to come. I am welcoming the personal growth and design experience that is in my future...not to mention the beautiful Cong white pots from Europe that are arriving next week.
Could this new adventure possibly be any more fun?
