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As I’m writing today, there are a few days left in July. Although it’s still blazing hot, somehow, it feels as though summer is practically over. College kids are out shopping for their dorm room essentials, fall sports practices are underway, and the back-to-school displays are being torn apart by eager students and parents making sure to get all the right color folders and their favorite pack of pencils. 

Though, I am all about squeezing out every last drop of summer, there is something every Midwesterner loves about the changing seasons; the eager anticipation of crisp autumn mornings, cozy sweaters, and Friday night football games. 

But not quite yet!! We are still in the “savor the last bit of summer sun” mode; getting in the last few days at the pool, or that final weekend at the lake before school starts. It’s a beautiful time. BUT, as you are holding on to what’s left of summer, if I could get you to put down your margaritas ladies, for just one second…. believe it or not, I hate to even say it, but it’s time to plan your holiday furniture purchases. 

Oh my gosh, I know, I know! Thanksgiving…..Christmas, are you kidding.. so not ready for that right now.  Can’t even! I know, I get it!  I really do!  But here’s the thing….. just because you’re not ready to trade your iced coffee for a pumpkin spice latte, doesn’t mean you can’t think ahead. And being willing to plan ahead, doesn’t mean that you are giving up on the current season, or NOT “living in the moment.”   

 So despite the fact that Thanksgiving is months aways, if you need a new table and chairs, or a new pull out sofa for when the cousins come to stay for the holidays, believe it or not, now is actually the time to begin the process. All too often, customers walk in the store in mid-October, looking to purchase a new dining set for Christmas. They spend a week or two working with one of our designers to get just the right finish, and style, that they love and fits their budget, when they finally ask how long it will take. The look of disappointment on their face hits, when they are told their custom order won’t be in for  12-16 weeks.  The horror!! The devastation. Don’t let this be you.  

Today, I’m going to let you in on a little information that many people outside the furniture and design industry don’t know. The majority of the furniture factories in North Carolina shut down, towards the end of December. Also, that time of year is one of the busiest in our industry, which means that the additional orders can lead to longer wait times, and possible unforeseen delays. Delays and backorders can happen anytime, but they do tend to happen more frequently as the year comes to a close. 

Many of our customers that come in around the fall hoping for furniture by the holiday, often say that they wish they would have known.  “If only someone had told them, and they could have begun planning sooner.” Well, today’s post is that warning to you. If you know already that you need things for the holidays, do yourself a huge favor, and stop in and see us now! Or better yet, have one of our designers come directly to you. They can quickly customize a plan to fit your needs and budget to turn your space around, in time for the season when you want to enjoy your home the most!!  

However, if you just aren’t willing to take time out of your summertime fun to think about the holidays, or maybe you just don’t have the time until the kids are back in school, we will still have you covered.  We’ve thought ahead, and ordered extra dining tables and plenty of upholstery options for the floor that will be ready to go, coming this fall.  We have beautiful traditional styled antique dining sets, handcrafted locally made solid wood live edge tables, and several Amish build tables, ranging from classic to modern, all in freshly styled finishes and build with heirloom quality craftsmanship. We have fabulous dining chairs, beautiful bedroom options, and loads of sofas, club chairs and sectionals. But, I’m telling you, it won’t last! Do yourself a favor, and don’t wait too long.  

So, this August, come see us, in store, or out at the gorgeous equestrian property of Stone Pillars, the site of Homerama 2024. Beginning August 24th through September 8th.  Our furniture will be on display, as independent interior designer, Kelly Wynn has put together a beautiful showhouse for builder, Weiland Homes. Also, stop by our tent where Curated will be selling not only furniture, but also loads of accessories, home accents and fall décor. Be sure to visit us for the sale after Homerama to get amazing deals on all your favorites from the show!  

But in the meantime, don’t forget the sunscreen. We hope you are savoring every bit of these last lazy summer days. Oh, and go ahead and pick that margarita back up! CHEERS to a beautiful summer! See you soon.