Week In An Instant

Images Clockwise, Left to Right:
1. As the days get colder, these two cats get cozier. It takes every fiber of my being to keep the cat pictures to a minimum! Plus they love to nest on the sofa we got at...Oddfellows!
2. I couldn't resist sharing this photo of Ethan and our friend/neighbor extraordinaire Carol. This is at a friend's Christmas Party, right after we completed a holiday themed LaZoom tour downtown. Probably the most holiday fun you can have in an hour, the LaZoom tour featured a live band complete with drum kit and horn section, as well as lots of champagne. I'm going to use this photo later for a "Buy Antiques" campaign poster.
3. First few gifts wrapped under our tree. We have really been enjoying the tree this year, and most evenings you can find the Walmsley-Morris household listening to records/knitting/reading treeside.
4. We visited a favorite haunt, the DeSoto Lounge earlier in the week and I was enamored with all of the new taxidermy on the walls. If I could take this pair home with me, I most assuredly would.
5. Suppertime! We spent a wonderful evening with friends new and old this week and I could spend hours taking pictures of all of this home's beautiful nooks and crannies. Plus, what a lovely spread!

Oddfellows in The Scene

Recently I had the opportunity to write an article for The Asheville Scene, which is the Citizen-Times' companion paper that runs weekly. The Scene is one of the best places to find articles about Asheville's creative side. I particularly love the foodie-centric articles and fashion features. I contributed an article about antique gifts under $100 and had a blast hunting and gathering at a few of my favorite antique shops. Of course my short list includes my one true love, Oddfellows! Check out the link to the full article here or pick up a copy of The Scene around town. P.S. I have to say, my name looks pretty cool in print, right!? P.P.S. If you're reading this blog because of The Scene, welcome new readers! Stay tuned for updates on all the latest happenings with Oddfellows.

T's Ten, Week of 12/16/12

It's hard to believe that Christmas is only a week away! Perhaps shopping for gifts at an antique store isn't the first place to cross your mind. But I'm here to encourage you to give it a try! There are so many great gift ideas in the shop right now. I've gotten several goodies for friends and families and yes, maybe a few things thrown in for my house as well. It feels good knowing I've supported the shop, as well as a local business this holiday season. Plus it's awesome that the gifts I'm giving are unique, one-of-a-kind items that I put a lot of thought into. So be sure to check out our selection before the big day.

1. I've had my eye on this sign since it landed stateside. It's a 1930s Belgian deer crossing sign. I love the bold, black graphic of the deer the most and while I am quickly running out of wall space, I would definitely let a few things go to accommodate this piece. It's so cool! Dealer #44, Deer Crossing Sign, $295.

 2. This adorable pillow has been really tempting me this week. As an avid owl collector, I do own a few owl pillows but none quite as cute as this one. I love that the pillow is pieced together with different patches of fabric, and I especially love the pattern of the owl's body. This would be an awesome gift, and you can give it to me;) Dealer #133, Night Owl Pillow, $95.

 3. I know I've said this often, but it's true that lamps really tie a room together. They can really make a room feel warm, inviting, and cozy. This lamp is a delight, particularly because the contrast of the cylindrical glass base with the square shaped shade is a really sophisticated pairing. And the best part is that this lamp could function beautifully almost anywhere because of its minimal effect. Dealer #076, Glass Cylinder Lamp, $158.

 4. This pair of glass top mid-century tables are just plain sexy. There's no other word to describe them, really. Great lines, great shape. I love that they could flank either end of a sofa just as easily as they work side by side instead of a coffee table. Sexy, ya'll. Dealer #83, Pair of Mid-Century Tables, $295.

 5. Now for something a little classy. This corner bookcase/cupboard is lovely, don't you think? I love the geometric carving on the glass front and the bottom of the cabinet has great storage for hiding things you don't care to show off. I love the grey color because it reminds me of French country or even Swedish grey furniture. The best part, though, is that it fits snugly in a corner so doesn't take up much room. Dealer #44, Corner Bookcase/Cabinet, $495.

6. Check out this cozy little number. It's definitely a "man chair" if ever I've seen one, but because I enjoy sitting in it when I get a chance, I lovingly refer to it as the "Tarleton Chair." It's so comfortable and there is nothing better than a good leather chair. This particular piece is a vintage Old Hickory Tannery leather chair, and Old Hickory Tannery's leather goods are considered the best of the best. After sitting in it a while, I can certainly see why. Also the night owl pillow featured above would look awesome paired with this! Dealer #444, Old Hickory Tannery Chair and Ottoman, $595.

7. Although these look like a pair of stools, they are actually industrial plant stands. Aren't they fabulous? The tops are made of wood (hence we do not recommend using them as stools) and any healthy plant is sure to complement the industrial look. I also love that there are two of them. As we bring outdoor plants indoors for the winter, this pair is sure to prove useful, and with nice lines to boot! Dealer #NYA, Pair Industrial Plant Stands, $65 each.

 8. I'm digging this vintage iron sconce. There are four of them total, too, so I think these would be great going down a long hallway. Although I'm not well versed on electrical endeavors, I'm certain that those of you that are can turn these into lovely lights. Dealer #28, Set of 4 Sconces, $125.

 9. Yet another craving fresh from England, this pair of Danish modern leather chairs are awesome. To start, they are super comfortable. The frames are Rosewood (one of my favorites) and I love how sleek and sophisticated the lines are on them. An obvious choice for a bachelor pad, I could also see them working just as well in a living room I know in West Asheville. Dealer #03, Pair of Danish Modern Chairs, $950.

10. Surely by now you guys are aware of my love for unusual decorative objects. These bongos prove no exception. I love the idea of putting them on a shelf or bookcase to give some depth and contrast and the shots of red and salmon would make any room pop. Plus bongos are literally the only thing my husband does not own among his collection of instruments, so it would be nice to have late night bongo playing sessions! Dealer #297, Pair of Bongos, $150.

Week In An Instant

Images Left to Right:
1. My driftwood lamp obsession has reached epic proportions. It's like I have a magnet that attracts me to  them immediately. Needless to say, I swapped one driftwood lamp for another, and I am in love with the latest version.
2. This taxidermy goose can be found at Dwellings. I fell in love right away. I love the elegant curvature of the neck. My cats would have a field day with this new "friend."
3. I'm kicking myself for not having picked up this portrait right away. This lady is so sophisticated, and her presence might fancy up the house a bit.
4. It's definitely that time of year again. Each year I find a new vintage decoration to add to our growing collection. This year I found this angel tree topper, and lucky for us she still lights up quite nicely!
5. A captured moment from the first holiday party of the season. I'm lucky to have several friends that work for the Citizen-Times and each year, there is an epic party hosted by two reporters, one of whom has the most amazing Christmas decor. It's so filled to the brim, she even includes a scavenger hunt to add to the festivities.

Oddfellows Makeover!

It has been a quiet week for the blog, but I assure you we have been very busy odd fellows this week. We've been giving the warehouse a little makeover, and I am super excited about all of the changes. There are more changes yet to come, but have a peek at our progress! We shifted our counter to the middle of the front room and raised it on a platform. Then we moved the majority of the stained glass windows to our former office to better showcase them. To experience just how amazing the new changes are, though, you'll have to stop by for a visit. Also we would like to give a great big shout out to our friend and jack of all trades, Chip Free! He's awesome and this project wouldn't have gone as smoothly without him. Thanks again Chip!!!

Here's the beginnings of the platform base in its new location.

 The old girl placed atop her new home. We've had so many people comment upon how great the shop looks rearranged with the counter front and center. But best of all, so many folks said they didn't even really notice the great red color of the counter until now.

 We used this great piece of stained glass as a corner for the counter to add an element of contrast. It just looks plain amazing!

The finished product, tested for perfection by the Chief Executive Fellow, aka Kelly.  Tom added a French awning to the top to really anchor the counter. You can't miss us now!

Our former office now boasts a full collection of English stained glass windows dating from the 1800s to 1940s. I can't believe how much these pieces have transformed in this room. You can really see the stained glass now, and it all looks so lovely displayed this way. So there you have it! It's fun changing it up and we hope you enjoy it as much as we do!

T's Ten, Week of 11/25/12

As promised, a brand new T's Ten post! This post features new items fresh from the container. I had trouble narrowing down my selections this week because there are so many great things in the shop right now. Life is good when you know the biggest dilemma you face is choosing just which garden gnome to take home! As always, if you see anything you like feel free to contact us or stop by this weekend.

 1. I am really aching for this tooth model. Get it, aching...tooth..toothache. I apologize; I couldn't resist! All joking aside, is this not the coolest? This teaching model is amazing and I know a bookshelf or two that would benefit from adding this pop of the unusual. There is also something really graphic and bold that I love about it. Dealer #03, Tooth Model, $95.

 2. Why, hello little desk, nice to meet you. This container load featured a lot of really awesome mid-century furniture and this secretary is one of my favorites. What I appreciate most about it is its compact size. I have so many friends that tell me that they are quickly running out of room in their homes (myself included), so it's nice when you can find a piece of furniture that is functional, designed well, and can tuck away without taking over the whole house. Plus I'm loving the little nooks for arranging papers and files. Dealer #44, Mid-Century Secretary, $235.

 3. As is often the case in the antiques business, every item has a story to tell. These 1920s/30s folding bistro chairs are no exception. They were tucked away in the basement of a Parisian amphitheatre just waiting to be discovered! How cool, right?!? We've got around 40 of them, and each chair features a great punch of color. I overheard Tom mention to a customer over the weekend that in over a decade of importing, he's never found something quite so cool and unique! Dealer #44, Parisian Bistro Chairs, $95 each.
 

 4. These French wine barrels are pretty great. Given that Asheville is making a name for itself in the food industry, I'm betting a local restaurant will want to pick these up for decor. They would immediately add to any room's atmosphere. I think they could also function as an interesting tabletop surface when paired with tall bar stools.  Not in the restaurant biz? That's ok, because the new wine cellar you're building is begging for these. Dealer #44, French Wine Barrels (5 total), $395 each.
 

 5. This retro red leather chair is really special. To start, I love the single tufting on the back and cushion. It comes with the lumbar pillow, which is great when you've reached the end of the work day and want to collapse and relax. This chair will be ready to keep you comfy. The texture of the leather is super soft and let's be honest, who doesn't love a red chair!?! Dealer #44, Red Leather Chair, $495.
 

 6. I love chalkboard paint as much as the next guy, but who needs it when you've got this instead? First, let me just say that this would make a really amazing announcement/specials board for a restaurant or local business. Second, I really want to put this in my living room so I can make friends come over for lengthy hangman battles. And let's not forget the best part of all, it's French! #03 French School Board, $495.
 

 7. This sign is so great you guys! It's large, has a really great graphic quality, and the cut-out heart at the bottom is just too cute. It would be a fun addition to a gallery wall or could even stand alone as a great piece of wall art. Dealer #44, Royal Insurance Company Sign, $495.
 

 8. I am so in love with this mirror from the 1800s. Every time I walk past it, I catch myself thinking, "Wow, what an awesome mirror!" I especially love the stark white branch frame. It's a bold, large size and would be a beautiful statement piece in your home. Dealer #44, 1800s Mirror, $595.
 

 

9. Speaking of a beautiful statement, this painted Hungarian bench is lovely. I'm digging the whitewashed grey juxtaposed with the black paint. If you look closely, in either corner of the bench's back, there are small shots of red paint sneaking in for an unexpected punch of color.  This would function perfectly in an entryway, because you can hide shoes and other accessories inside the bench. Dealer #44, Hungarian Bench, $895.

10. Last but certainly not least, this mid-century high board is stunning. I love the clean lines, and even better, I love all of the storage. Our home is awesome, but completely lacking in the storage department, so anytime a piece of furniture can functionally hide away things that shouldn't be seen everyday (like my obnoxious assortment of dinner napkins) I'm into it. Dealer #44, Mid-century High Board, $695.

Container Day Recap

Here it is! A few behind the scenes photos for you guys, so you have an idea of what we do once the container arrives. I always say this, but this particular container is my favorite. So many great finds!

There she is! And right on time, too. It's hard to believe so many items can fit onto a 40' container, but miraculously everything Tom and Kelly found tucked away nicely, thanks in part to the shippers.

 Tom, our fearless leader, giving the truck driver instructions on how to park.

I love these two photos because it seriously captures some of the excitement of container day, at least for me. I have an idea of what is bought, but the majority of the container is a surprise and Tom unlocking the truck makes me feel like a little girl at Christmastime. Seriously. And in the second photo, the work begins!

I think we were at the halfway point about this time. Here are Mike and Ethan, on the right, eagerly anticipating another piece of furniture. As you know, I ask Ethan  two questions every container day-what is the heaviest thing you lifted, and what is your favorite thing you lifted? Ethan said the heaviest item this go round was a large English wardrobe and his favorite thing were all of the mid-century credenzas.

 Another action shot. This is our friend Justin, a newcomer to the field of unloading containers. Although it was his first time unloading, he was a pro by the end and hopefully we didn't scare him off to help again:)

This is what the container looks like when it's been emptied and gutted.

Holy cardboard! This mountain of cardboard kept all of the goodies safe and snug on their journey overseas. In case you're keeping tabs, yes we recycled all of it! Kelly's awesome dad Mike oversees the organizing and recycling portion of container day!

The unloading takes about 2 hours to complete, and after that hard work is done, the fun part really begins. We start to unearth hidden treasures in boxes and bubble wrap. In the meantime, the shop opens for business, and our favorite customers and friends come by to check out the new things. This is Tara, a dear friend to Oddfellows, holding her new bull. Perhaps she will share a photo of the bull's final resting place if we beg and plead:)

And we'll end with the cutest customer of the day,  sweet Selah helped us feed all the teak animals from India. Check back later in the week for a new T's Ten, featuring the items fresh off the container.

Two Weeks In An Instant!

If you're like me, you're still playing a little catch up. We celebrated Ethan's birthday, plus took a whirlwind trip to Atlanta over the holiday. Coming up this week, look out for a container day post, as well as a new T's Ten. In the meantime, check out what I've been up to as I catch up!

Images left to right, clockwise.
1. I know I've mentioned it before, but I am really nesting right now. Lucky for me, I work at Oddfellows and have lots of nesting options around me all the time. Like this lamp. I featured it in a T's Ten a few weeks back and as I was writing about it, I knew I needed it. And my dining room is looking so much cozier with it!
2. We changed a few things up in the living room as well. I had to take advantage of dealer 444's awesome upholstered sofas, and it is now lovingly referred to as our "grown up" sofa.
3. I threw a party for Ethan to celebrate his birthday. A whisk(e)y tasting party, to be exact! It was such a fun party  because we were surrounded by all of our friends as we celebrated how great Ethan is. And also because I was able to capture this photo of Etta, our catpuppy, trying to steal some grub.
4. The following evening, we went to see Angel Olsen perform at Forsythia Hall. Our friends at Harvest Records hosted the event, and it was a truly beautiful experience. Also, as someone that absolutely loves peeking into others' homes, Forsythia Hall was a feast for the eyes.
5. There's that birthday boy!

Images Clockwise, Left to Right:
1. One of my favorite finds from the container, the teak animals from India are lined up and ready for their new homes.
2. We spent Turkey Day in Atlanta with Ethan's family. My favorite part was driving around our old haunts. Here, a shot of Piedmont and Ralph McGill. It was nice experiencing some warmer weather, and Atlanta still has lots of leaves to admire.
3. Ethan and our nephew Ben, playing in said leaves.
4. We also had time to catch up with some old friends of ours, Julia and Rosa. Both hugely talented ladies, Rosa owns a vintage clothing business called Recollection Vintage and Julia is the chef de cuisine at Watershed. So glad I was able to catch up with them during our whirlwind trip.
5. A new addition to Ethan's extended family, this is Rosie. She's a pug and dachshund mix and so tiny, furry, cuddly, and cute. I love puppies.

New Dealer Sneak Peek

What!?! Another new dealer sneak peek? Yes, that's right. Allow me to introduce dealer #297, who specializes in vintage and industrial housewares and furniture as well as eclectic odds and ends. Sharon has been in the biz for a while now, and some of you locals may be familiar with her shop Trash, Inc. Peep the website here to learn more. In the meantime, we are lucky to have her join us in her new project as "Plan B Studio."

Happy Thanksgiving!

Oddfellows will be closed tomorrow for Thanksgiving, but we will reopen on Friday. If you haven't had a chance to see the shop post-container this weekend would be a great time to do it. Bring the whole gang!

Image Courtesy of http://www.reminisce.com/

And now...a few things I'm thankful for this year:
-a husband whose patience knows no bounds, even when it comes to taxidermy
-my mom and little sister whose company I miss daily
-a job that keeps me inspired and nurtures my creativity
-bosses that I'm lucky to call family
-two mischievous cats that double as great photography models
-friends whose love and support is amazing
-the 28 years I was able to spend with my dad

New Dealer Sneak Peek

The shop is looking really wonderful lately, due in part to the container's arrival and also because we've got a few new dealers joining us. We are lucky to have them, and can't wait to see what they bring to the fold. Stay tuned for an update about "Container Day," and in the meantime, enjoy this peek at dealer #28!

Check out the "Coming Attractions" sign...it's killer! Dealer #28 specializes in vintage, primitives, and painted furniture. Come by this weekend to take a look!

The Container Is Coming!!

Yes, it's true! The container is sitting pretty right now, and will be arriving to us in Asheville on Monday, November 19th. That's this Monday!! Doors open at 11:00 and you won't want to miss out on the fresh goods.

T's Ten, Week of 11/11/12

Hello Oddfellows friends and fans! Hope your week is getting off to a great start. I know I'm looking forward to this week and especially the next, as we eagerly await the container's arrival. Still no exact date, but keep checking back. We will let you know absolutely as soon as we know, and appreciate your patience as we all look forward to its arrival! And now...my picks for the week!

1. First up, this pair of deco style vases. They are only about 10" high, which means they would be perfect objects placed upon a bookshelf along with other odds and ends and  you know...books too. I'm just smitten! Dealer #150, Pair of Vases, $125.

 2. This folk art goat by artist R. A. Miller is tugging at my heartstrings. R. A. Miller is known for his folk "whirligigs," and metal cut outs like this little goat. I love it for several reasons, but mostly because the artist is from Georgia. I spent 7 years in Atlanta, and have a big soft spot because of my time there. It's also where I met Ethan, so needless to say, anytime I can proudly display something in our home that reminds us of Georgia I will gladly do it! Dealer #133, R.A. Miller Goat, $110.

 3. At this point, you should all know I have an affinity for anything a little odd. I am an Oddfellow, afterall. This "Exercycle" bike is right up my alley. It's still in great working condition, and that's why I like it. Of course I wouldn't settle for a brand new workout machine; oh no, I must have an amazing 1930s-40s "Exercycle" or nothing at all! I love the industrial quality, and it proves that something as functional as workout equipment can indeed hold its own in the design world. Dealer #NYA, 1930s-40s Exercycle, $195.

 4. Speaking of industrial, isn't this drafting table great!? I love that it is more compact than the traditional drafting table, and I'm loving the little compartments at the top. Local restaurants take note! This would be really awesome in a restaurant for a host/hostess to use.  Dealer #076, Industrial Drafting Table, $278.

 5. This beautiful Danish drawleaf table is really quite special. It is the perfect option for those of you living in smaller spaces, because the leaves can tuck under the top for a perfect, smaller square shape. And with turkey day right around the corner, you can't go wrong. Dealer #83, Danish Drawleaf Table, $450.

 

 6. Ethan and I often joke that we will one day upgrade to a "grownup bed," meaning we'll one day find a headboard suitable enough for the both of us. Enter this tobacco drying rack, and we've got one massive headboard. You could use this rack for a number of things, but I think when turned horizontally, it would be a perfect headboard. I especially like the idea of attaching lighting on either side with two small shelves. Whatever the use, this rack is lovely. Dealer #03, Tobacco Drying Rack from England, $495.

 7. Have I ever explained to you how much I love cane details? It's true. I've always loved caning on chairs, tables, and this hand-painted coffee table is no exception. I think what I like is the texture, and with this piece in particular, the circular shape gives the impression of a sunburst. Dealer #OMD, Hand-painted Cane Coffee Table, $175.

 8. This English secretary is so beautiful. It truly doesn't get any better than this. The stained glass doors at the top are in perfect condition and allow for a quaint simplicity. The rustic wood is simple, yet elegant as well. All around a perfect piece at a great price to boot! Dealer #150, English Secretary, $395.

 9. Holy hot dogs. This vintage neon sign from our industrial signage dealer is pretty special, don't you think? An obvious choice in a restaurant, but why not in your kitchen instead for a punch of color? A great, graphic choice, whether you like hot dogs or not. Dealer #02, Neon Hot Dog Sign, $1, 250.

 10. This tiny carved stool is really cute. My favorite part is the moss growing up and down the legs. Moss=elegant in my book any day, and this stool would make an elegant addition to your home. Dealer #444, Wood Stool With Moss, $44.