April Showers

The weather forecast for Chicago is predicting rain, including some thunder showers for the next three days.  Perfect time to introduce you to our fine collection of Umbrella Stands.
I have one in my foyer which is, of course, filled with umbrellas and a collection of antique canes, one of which belonged to my late great Italian grandfather. 

They can also be used as planters, filled with summer greens and flowers or branches and grasses in the fall.

I have a client who purchased two of our Florentine Umbrella Stand/Vase (#17-FLO).  They had two large niche in the foyer which needed just the right pieces to compliment the architecture.  We filled them with fresh bamboo grass to welcome guests to a summer party. 

For those of you who live in the Chicago area, we are participating for our 8th year in the Winnetka Club "Lifestyles" housewalk Wednesday May 15th.  It is a wonderful opportunity for us to showcase our merchandise in some of the North Shores finest homes.  Tickets can be obtained at thewinnetkaclub@gmail.com
This year we will be in a "transitional" home, where we can show how our dinnerware and table top accessories look in both traditional and contemporary kitchen and dining rooms. Looking forward to seeing you there, Frank

Been Away Too Long...

I'm back after spending a few weeks in South Carolina and Florida...only to find that Winnetka was warmer than both....arriving home to find green grass and trees blooming like they do in mid-May.

With the holiday this weekend, I"m thinking what makes an ordinary table great???  The center piece. I've attached our collection for you to enjoy.  My favorites are any that are footed.  They add an elegance to the table and can be filled with fruits, vegatables, or flowers.  Many are decorated inside and need nothing to make them a table-top knockout. I also like to add candle stixs, fabrics, and metals to make an impactful theme.

You can also use our centerpiecs on kitchen islands  mixed with larger overscaled piece, like our large ceramic candle sticks or large wrought iron candlesicks for a more rustic look. Depending on the island size I like to do larger items like urns filled with greens and our trays.

Have a spring celebration Happy Easter and Passover to all. Frank