Who Wouldn't Love a Custom Ottoman? Would You?

No, really, who wouldn't love one? A place to relax and read a book...extra seating for guests...instant coffee table? In our first blog post about ottomans ("Blog Bites: Kick Up Your Feet"), we featured some amazing ottomans of all sizes, shapes, textures, and styles. We also promised a follow-up post on ottomans, and I am so excited about this one!

When I blogged about my Wine & Design events, I promised an amazing incentive for hosts -- 50% off of the labor of a custom ottoman [promotion amount valid to change post 9/30/11]. Incredible savings! I'm thrilled to be able to show you some of the designs to get your imagination flowing! Not interested in hosting an event? Not a problem! These custom ottomans are available to everyone (just not at a discount).

Before I show you little eye candy, I have to answer the question I'm sure is on some readers' minds: Why do I need a custom ottoman? Can't I just get one at a furniture store? Yes, of course you can. And for many people, this works just fine. But I can't tell you how often I've entered clients' homes to hear that their chosen ottoman was "the best we could find" or "not exactly what we wanted." That doesn't sound too exciting, does it? Custom pieces allow for so much flexibility to create the size, style, and look you really want. And guess what -- the price of these quality custom pieces you see here are actually comparable to the "best you could find" in the stores. Really! 

Okay...on to the fun stuff!

Here's a traditional look -- tailored with nail-head trim and wooden legs. Want to see what this sketch looks like "in real life"? Check out the second image to see a chic incarnation!

Love this fabric, by the way...traditional meets slightly funky modern. Very cool.

I can't help but think "girly" when I see this next one. I can envision it in a dressing room, sitting room, or even a little girl's room. Hmmm...maybe the three fabric choices in the second image are influencing my vision! I just have to draw your attention to the differences between the sketch and this particular custom piece. Beautiful button and banding details truly make this piece custom (and add to the "girly" factor in this case)!

In the mood for something fancy? Take a look at this turret ottoman! But just when you thought the sketches said it all, the "real life" ottoman sample creates a more casual look with playful fabric and cord detail (matching the fringe) to give this a cohesive style I can see in a family room, bedroom, or sunroom. Love how cheerful it is!

While I don't have a sketch of this next piece, isn't it adorable? Can you imagine it with more masculine fabrics?

And speaking of masculine, here are a couple that really fit the bill. Can you see leather on this first one? I sure can!

Here's a contemporary look for those interested in a more modern aesthetic with clean lines.

And finally...maybe I'm a little biased here, but I just had to share this before-and-after of a piece courtesy of Storibook Designs. Who doesn't love a little before-and-after? I do for sure!

Before:

Voila! A lively, playful, and sophisticated "after"! More than one of you has professed a love for this fabric!

Custom pieces leave you with so many options, and believe me, I know it can be overwhelming! That's why working with a professional to guide you through the process is worth every penny to make sure you get exactly what you're looking for (or as happens in some cases, what you did even know you were looking for)!

Wine, Design...And You!

Do you love combining wine and design? Me too! That's why I love my [the original] Wine and Design Events. You provide the venue (your home, typically) and wine; I provide the design. Sound like a fun way to get together with friends? Read on!

 Cheers!

If you're interested in home decor, understand that quality makes a difference, and want to learn about what "custom" really means (and what's available), then you will love hosting a Wine & Design event! Wondering whom to invite? Wine & Design guests fall across a spectrum. Some may be potential customers who schedule a decorative consult the next day! Others might want to order custom draperies, slipcovers, or upholstery. Others may simply love the opportunity for a night out - "another glass of wine, please" - and just "file" the information away for a future date if custom isn't on their "need right now" list of priorities.

Photo description: Storibook Designs
pillow face sample showcasing fusible applique technique

No matter where they're at, everyone enjoys the creative ideas and new-found understanding of what custom really means and is. Seeing and touching the product is the best way to do that; it's the only way to really showcase custom workmanship and fine detail.

Photo description: Storibook Designs
Embellishment sample showcasing fabric origami technique

People don't have to feel like they have to place an order, though. No; that's not what this is about. This isn't a Tupperware party, and I say this with no disrespect (because I love my Tupperware). These events are a chance for me to share things I love -- enjoyable events where I often make new friends, new "fans," and yes, some new customers.

So what are my requirements? I just ask that at least six homeowners be in attendance. And since I can't legally provide the wine, that one's up to you, too. That's it!

As a fabulous incentive for hosts, I'm so excited to offer up to 50% off the labor of a gorgeous custom ottoman -- a huge savings! I can't think of anyone who couldn't use and enjoy a custom ottoman. Can you?!

So do you think hosting a Wine and Design event is for you? Please send me a note at storibookdesigns@verizon.net if you're interested so we can get your date on the calendar!