Indulge Decor Blog

Blanc d'Ivoire New In The Store, July 2012

 

Blanc d'Ivoire's Not-So-Basic . . . Basics!

 

This particular Blanc d'Ivoire shipment was unpacked in 2 parts because my buddies at Crowded House/Point 2 Point preferred to come 2 different afternoons instead of 1 whole tiresome day. So on Thursday, we (really the muscle guys) unpacked and set up the St. Tropez Collection, and Monday, we (again, the muscle guys) unpacked the not-so-basic. . . basics!

 

 

Jules Cabinet

Great for a play room, think of the 'creep' you could store (hide) or as a dresser (fantasy sock drawer) in a kid's room.

 

A Plethora of Dressers

 

Mona Dresser

We have only 2 available, don't hesitate. Love the lion drawer pulls.

 

Edgar Luggage Holder

A single luggage rack looks great at the end of a twin bed, or you can use 2 at the end of a queen. Every guest room should have a luggage rack; otherwise, your brother-in-law's dirty bedbug infested suitcase ends up on your beautiful Indulge bedding.

 

Gladis Side Table

Taller than most of the side tables we have in stock (Only 1 left!).

 

Paola Dresser

Same style dresser as last shipment but new color. (And yes, we have a pair!)

 

Philomene Dresser

With fancy matching tassle drawer pulls. (We have a pair!)

 

Lara Mirror

Patina coordinates with all the new dressers but, ahem, wouldn't it.

 

Romane Mirror

(Yes, that's me in the mirror, wink.)

 

Gladis Mirror GM

Chateau-ey in size and grandeur.

 

Edith Headboard in Twin, Claire Desk, Marine Side Table & Edgar Luggage Rack

My ideal of a young girl's bedroom.

(All pieces shown in pearle gray)

 

If your mini-princess would prefer a queen bed . . .

Claudia Headboard

 

Yuki Side Tables Grey

 

Paul Commode in Zinc Patina

 

Barbara Console

Ideal in length for a 'Great Room'

 

Gladis Mirror - PM

Love the zinc-like patina on this mirror, and how perfect the style & color looks with the pieces shown directly above. Again, well planned by moi.

 

Honore Side Table (distressed oak)

 

Roxanne Dresser & Arthur Sidetable

   

Unlike the overly grey behemoth chain store down the street from Indulge, every new-in-the-store item is actually in the store and available for purchase. What a novel concept these days, ahem. If I were you, I would go ahead and borrow your husband's Suburban for tomorrow just in case you find something in the new Blanc d'Ivoire Collection that you just can't exist without :-)

 

 See ya soon!

 

 

 

Cote d'Azur

 

Cote d'Azur

It is no secret amongst my family and friends that I love to travel. On my trip to the Cote d'Azur, I came to the startling realization that I am actually living vicariously through myself. It's as if I exist in some type of incredible John Malcovich work/luxury travel portal in which I get to travel to all these fabulous places in the world for work, and it (luxurious travel) is legitimately expected of me. And, I should even be doing it (luxurious traveling) more often than I do!

  After the Paris Show, we (Issac, my fun friend A, and moi) headed South to the infamous Cote d'Azur to check out Blanc d'Ivoire's new 5,000 sq ft flagship store in St. Tropez.

 Issac made the executive decision that we should stay in Eze because it was so centrally located to everything that we wanted to do on our, ahem, 'work' trip - Eze, Cap Ferrat, St.Tropez and Monaco! (I may own Indulge but Issac holds the esteemed title of 'V.P. of Travel'.)

 

The Village of Eze

 

Where We Stayed . . .

Domaine Pins Paul

 

Every afternoon, we drove 15 or so minutes to the beach for an afternoon swim/bob. Our 'local' beach just happened to be in the reluctantly super-trendy Cap Ferrat.

(Cap Ferrat was recently named the second most expensive residential location in the world. Can you guess number 1. . . ? If you're not sure, not to worry - we will get to number 1 later in the blog, patience.)

 

 Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat

Cap Ferrat was once the domain of King Leopold II of Belgium

(In the immortal words of Mel Brooks in his hit comedy History of the World, Part 1 - "It's good to be the king.")

 

 

Our Picturesque Beach Locale . . . 

 

 

 

I love the fact that you can order a bottle of champagne from your  beach chair, no problem, but you are on your own if you mistakenly drown.

 

 

 - - - - -

Village of La Turbie

A short drive for dinner.

 

A l-o-n-g drive home after a glass or two of wine, very tricky roads. Very tricky, shudder.

 - - - - - -

Day 2

St. Tropez

 

 

Don't let the harbor of anchored super-yachts mislead you, we arrived by, ahem, . . .

. . . ferry.

 

 

 

Our legitimate 'work' purpose for going to St. Tropez - to visit the new 5,000 sq ft Blanc d'Ivoire flagship store.

'Oh, there are 2 BD stores on the island. The new flagship store is just down the street you say.

Could you please repeat the directions, again? Perhaps this time a little bit more slowly and, if possible, could you use a few more of those English words.' 

 

Joyfully Lost

 

Always Moules

 

I have observed over the years that it is very French to find some shade and take a respite after an arduous afternoon meal.

 

 

Even the beloved pets observe this classic of traditions.

     

 

At Last, Blanc d'Ivoire's New Flagship Store!

 

Actually, the new BD flagship store is quite easy to find if you don't ask for directions, ha ha.

 

Waiting for Brigitte Bardot to Pop Her Head Out.

 

 

Eze

(Just another ubiquitous 'work' photo of me taken infront of significant French vendor to substantiate business trip for tax purposes, wink.)

 

Beaulieu Sur Mer

Fun dinner at the African Queen

 

More Bol de Moules . . .

 

- - - - - 

Day 3

More to See in Picturesque Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat

      

The writer W. Somerset Maugham was quoted as describing CF as 'the escape hatch from Monaco for those burdened with taste.'

 

Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild and Gardens

 Seaside palazzo owned by Beatrice de Rothschild

 

Qunintessential Pink

Estranged louse of a husband obviously not consulted on decor. All matters of decoration, very rosy.

 

 

In the eyes of her husband, B had a million dollar smile $$$$$$$

 

 

View of the Gardens from the Villa

 

The Notable Rose Garden

 

Featuring, Big Brother's Signature Stunning Pink Rose

     

 

View of the Villa from the Garden

 

Synchronized Aquatic Show

(Think water ballet but without the smiling beauties.)

 

Grand Hotel du Cap-Ferrat

 

 

We disregarded the video surveillance threat, rushed the door, and snapped this picture of . . . . nothing? Brad & Angelina had already left the building, shucks. 

 

 

- - - - - -

Principality of Monaco

 

Formal Signage Reminding Pesky Tourists of the 8 Commandments of Monaco

 

What a Spectacular Treat to See the Tall Ships in Full Sail Practicing Before the Big Regatta!

 

 

It is Hard to Conceive the Unbridled Opulence of Monaco

 

Hotel de Paris

 

 

 

 

The Usual Suspects

 

The Bauble Store

 

The New Rose Gold Collection By My Personal Jeweler

Such Pretties 

Answer to the before mentioned question of - Where is the most expensive place to live in the world? Monaco is the undisputed world's most expensive location to live $$$$$$$$

 

- - - - -

 

Drum roll, it is with great pleasure and satisfaction that I introduce the Blanc d'Ivoire Cote d'Azur Collection inspired by St. Tropez and plagiarised by moi.

 

All Weather Wicker

 

Accessories Charme

 

Love the 3 Mirrors Arranged as a Grouping

 Driftwood Lamps light up the room

 

Even a Simple (Home Depot!) Aloe Plant Looks Significant When Placed in a Striking Urn

 

Fish Lure Spreaders, Anchor Olive Forks, and Crab Place Card Holders add Whimsy to Any Table Setting

 

Pewter Finished Metal Lamps 

 

Linen Napkins & Table Runners

 

My Ideal Bol de Moules Dining Table 

 Yes, you can just wipe the tabletop clean!

 

Lots of fun accessories for the bath.

 

Can ya feel the cool breeze blowing in from the Mediterranean, ahh.

Blanc D'Ivoire Shipment Spring 2011

 

Do you remember when you were a little kid and you would make your way through the buffet line asking for one of everything because everything looked so delicious?

And, then your father would laugh and say with a pleased grin, "Looks like your eyes are bigger than your stomach. You come sit next to me, I'll help you finish that." Selfless encouragement.

Well apparently, I never learned portion control.  As you can see from the photos from my latest Blanc D'Ivoire container, I bought the whole buffet, ha ha.

It is with great pleasure (and big eyes!) that I introduce the spring Blanc D'Ivoire smorgasbord . . . .

 

Buffet Patrick (distressed gray)

 

Commode Paola

 

Commode Paul (zinc)

 

Commode Paul (blanc distressed)

 

 The Buffet Line, ha ha

 

Commode Philomene (blanc distressed)

 

Jules

 

 

 

Mirror Gladys (left) & Mirror Romane (right)

 

 

Table Ronde Fabienne

 

 

Bambou Side Table

 

Buffet Patrick shown with Mirror Romane

 

 Assorted Frames from Belgium

 

Glass Votives from BD

 

Commode Paul shown with Mirror Gladys

 

Commode Paul shown with Mirror Romane

 

Table Mark expands from 47" up tp 118" (has 2 leaves) shown with Chaise Amelie

 

Table Joanna in Zinc & Blanc shown with Anabelle Chairs

 

Cloches from Blanc D'Ivoire (wonderful wedding presents!)

 

Ingrid Headboard (Queen & King)

 

Assorted Fun Prints

 

Edgar Porte Bagage

 

Yves Delorme Charlotte Bed (available in Twin, Queen, & King) shown with new Pine Cone Hill Bedding (available in white & ivory)

 

 

Headboard Lauren (left) & Headboard Claudia (right)

 

12 Different Style Side Tables!

 

Rosa Mirror

 

What a feast . . . . !

Blanc D'Ivoire Spring 2011, Sneak Peak

 

Some people don't even know that we carry furniture at Indulge. Reason - because by the time they get back around to shopping at the store our Blanc D'Ivoire Container is unpacked and sold!

We joke at Indulge that the Blanc D'Ivoire Furniture has about a 2 week expiration date on it, ha ha.

So, don't whine, pout, and say, "Nobody told me the container was here."

Take this blog as a formal invitation to come & plunder away. But, be warned - be prepared! Know what you are looking for. There are no holds for the first few weeks of the container arriving and if you go away empty handed, you should know upfront that the piece will probably not be around when you finally do make up your mind and stroll back in 2 weeks from now.

Da Da . . . . . Curtain . . . .

 

Table Ronde Fabienne Gm (seats 4)

 Table Ronde Fabienne PM (seats 2)

 

Table Mark (includes leaf) 47" expands to 118"

 

 Chaise Amelie

 

Table Joanna (available in distressed blanc & in distressed gray)

 

- - - - -

 

Lauren Headboard

 

 

Commode Paul

 

Commode Carlotta

 

- - - - -

 

Meubles Jules

(A Little Person's Entire Wardrobe Could & Should Fit in This Commode)

 

Little Birdie Chandelier, tres charme

 

- - - - -

 

Headboard Oriane

 

Commode Carlotta (gray)

 

Chevet Andrea

      

 

Chevet Bambou

 

Porte Bagage Edgar

 

Incredibly Beautiful Olive Tree, not available for import, ha ha.

 

These are just a few pics I took last January when I was in Paris for the Blanc D'Ivoire Show. The container has these and lots more wonderful new pieces of furniture & accessories.

In Store Friday, May 20

IndulgeMaison Decor

2903 Saint street

Houston, Texas 77027

713.888.0181

Hours M - S: 10 to 6

 

Blanc D'Ivoire Shipment January 2011

 

I call this container - Hurry Up & Wait

Items on this container purchased in August 2010 at Maison & Objet in Paris. Paid for in October and received January 17, 2011 - a mere 4 1/2 months later, grrr. No matter what I do, I can not get the goods packed, shipped, and out on the floor any quicker.

Anyhew, it's always worth the wait. May I present our 2011 Blanc D'Ivoire Collection available to purchase right off the floor (while supplies last!).

 

Victoria Console PM, Romane Mirror

(shown with Juliska accessories and not-exactly-real-flowers)

 

Victoria Console GM, Romane Mirror

(shown with Juliska accessories and not-exactly-real-flowers)

 

Roxanne Chest in Gray, Carole Sconces in Ash Metal

(shown with Juliska accessories and not-exactly-real-flowers)

 

Carole Sconce in Ash Metal (sold as pair)

 

 

Roxanne Chest in Gray, Carole Sconce in Gray

(shown with Vietri Incanto pottery)

 

Carole Sconce in Gray (sold as pair)

 

 

Pauline Dining Chairs in Distressed Oak with Linen

 

- - - - -

Claudia Headboard in Gray (available queen & king)

(shown with Sferra Francesca bedding)

 

 

Charlie Headboard Queen, Paola Chest

(shown with Peacock Alley & Sferra Bedding)

 

Paola Chest, Paola Side Table shown in Gray

 

Ingrid Headboard Queen Only, Romy Chest in Distressed White with Oak Top

(shown with Matteo bedding)

 

Eddy Side Tables, Leonie Chest

 

Diana (far left), Eddy (far right), Cleo (center front) Side Tables

 

Jackie Headboard (Queen & King), Paola Side Table in Ebony, Fish Prints (set of 3)

(shown with Matteo & Peacock Alley bedding)

 

Jules Writing Desk in Ebony

 

Charlotte Writing Desk in Gray

 

Claire Writing Desk in Gray

 

Arthur Side Table

 

Eddy Side Table (has drawer)

(shown with Matteo Bedding)

 

Anais Side Table (cabinet)

 

Bla Bla Lamb Mobile, too charme.

 

- - - - -

 

Zinc Birdcage from Belgium

 

Not-Exactly-Real-Finches

 

Blanc D'Ivoire Garden Table, PM & GM

 

 

Elysees Chandelier - PM, GM, XL

 

Blanc D'Ivoire Gladis & Isy Mirrors

 

- - - - -

Indulge Linens Decor - 2501 River Oaks Boulevard

Best Looking Mirrored / Distressed Wood Cocktail Table Ever!

 

Stag Leg Table

 

Stag Leg Table available in PM & GM

 

By the time you have read this blog post, I will have already left for France to buy more' good stuff.'

Au revoir.

Blanc D'Ivoire Shipment Finally Arrives! Part II: River Oaks Blvd.

  

Customers always ask me which store - Indulge, Saint Street or Indulge Linens Decor, River Oaks Boulevard is more my taste. And, I always laugh and say, "Why, they both are." (Obviously, because I bought everything that is in both stores.) I am not Jekyll and Hyde in my design taste, but I am not what I would call predictable or monotonous either.

I always crack up when I over hear a customer (seeming tourist) whisper to her shopping companion (also an unknown) in hushed under tones, "This store is very unique. The owner buys everything in Europe and has fabulous taste. Oh, except maybe this." Seeming tourist says, pointing to such-and-such item. "I can't believe she bought that; it doesn't even look like her." And, with a pass-the-butter-smile, the seeming tourist glances over at the idle shop girl straightening the shelves (moi) and reaches for her friend's elbow to pass by  without having to make eye contact with 'the help' (still moi). Moi being store buyer, idle shop girl, observer of all things too ironic, and weekend blogger at large.

Tourist and more charming shopping companion leave the premises (Indulge) and head off to buy some throw pillows at . . . . Stein Mart?

So, to answer the most over asked Indulge oriented question - Which store is more my taste?

My off handed response is - one store (Saint Street) is perhaps more the home I live in now, and the other store (River Oaks Blvd.) is perhaps a little more the home I wish I lived in (when, you know I grow up and have my 'big girl' home.)

Personally, I think of the 2 stores as 'the same but different'. When I am in Paris shopping for the stores, I do not think necessarily that this item is for Saint Street, and that item is for the Blvd (and that item is for me, hee hee). It is not until the container arrives and the goods are spread out all over the parking lot that I decide which pieces will go to which stores.

I realize that having 2 stores so close together that carry similar but not the same merchandise can be very confusing for customers.

Once a Week Typical Shop Girl / Customer Dialogue:

Charming Customer: "Do you have any other styles (chandeliers, side tables, chests, . . .?)

Indulge Saint Street Shop Girl: "We have several more styles at our other location. We split the Blanc D'Ivoire container between the 2 stores." 

Charming Customer: "I didn't know you had a 2nd. store!"

Indulge Saint Street Shop Girl: "Why yes, we have 2 stores."

Charming Customer: "But, I keep up with everything, when did it open?"

Indulge Saint Street Shop Girl: "Ahem, 3 years ago."

Charming Customer, immediately annoyed: "3 years ago! What did I miss?!" 

- - - - -

It is with great enthusiasm that I present the Blanc D'Ivoire Collection at Indulge Linens Decor, River Oaks Boulevard. (Ahem, so you won't miss anything.)

If You Don't Buy These Mirrored Window Panes, I Will! (3 Week Rule).

Blanc D'Ivoire Babeth Drop-Leaf Dining Table in Distressed Oak 65"

Renata Dining Chairs, Caned Back and Linen Seat

 

Blanc D'Ivoire Chandeliers, Such Statement Pieces!

Alexia Chandelier (on the Left)

Scarlett Petite Chandelier (on the right)

 

The Ever Popular Victor Armchair is Back!

Linda Mirror, 32x53"

Victor Armchair, 37"h, distressed oak finish and ecru cotton upholstery

(Don't hesitate, we only received 1 pair of the Victors!)

 Shown with Sferra Throw.

 

Blanc D'Ivoire Serving Pieces

Lidded Cake Stand

Lidded Cake Plate w/ Handles

BD Engraved Trays, small and large

 

Bari Lamp, 25"h

Blanc D'Ivoire Decanters (from left to right):

Flat Bottom Decanter, Glass Carafe w/ Stirrer, Tilt Decanter

 

Oly Sofa - Herringbone Linen

Wicker Storage Bench, 44x15x13"h

Blanc D'Ivoire Metal Sidetable, 26"h

Blanc D'Ivoire Lorenzzo Console,  67x30.5x12" (perfect sofa table - long and skinny!)

     

More Blanc D'Ivoire Chandeliers

Another View of the Alexia

 

Another View of the Scarlett Petite

 

Scarlett Grande Chandelier

 

Elysees Chandelier (available in 4 sizes and 2 finishes)

 

XXL Elysees Chandelier

 Custom Headboards

 

Custom Audrey Headboard

Custom Raphael Headboard

Blanc D'Ivoire Paola Side Table

Blanc D'Ivoire Hestia Lamp, 21"h

Blanc D'Ivoire Chinon Metal Tumbler

Custom Benches (Conveniently Coordinate with Custom Headboards)

From left to right:

Custom Danielle Ballerina Bench, Blanc D'Ivoire Oklahoma Bench, Custom Tufted Bench.

 

Charme Bebe

Blanc D'Ivoire Side Table  Pompadour

Blanc D'Ivoire Lamp  Amandine

  

 

Blanc D'Ivoire Bed Crown & Elysees Chandelier

Bella Notte Layette

Cote Bastide Sheers

        

 

Blanc D'Ivoire Honore Side Tables Shown with Circus Lamps

Gordonsbury Layette, Safari

(Available in blue, yellow, and green)

Jelly Cat Lion

French Finger Puppet Stage, too charme.

            

Walk on the Wild Side

              

Gordonsbury Layette, Rosebud

          

Layette Clothes, Toys, and Gifts Abound

 

Indulge Linens Decor - Not Your Everyday Sheets and Towels Store ;)

And yes, it is all my taste also. But, if you don't believe me, weekend blogger at large, just ask the idle shop girl straightening the shelves (moi), tee hee.

PS - I have very good hearing. It's my eyes that are starting to fail me, not my hearing!

Blanc D'Ivoire Shipment Finally Arrives! Part 1: Saint Street

Precious Goods Purchased in Paris Delivered To Houston - Time Line:

January 22-26th, Maison & Objet Show, Paris - Goods Purchased

May 20th - Goods Ready

May 28th - Goods Loaded Into Container

June 14th - Container Leaves France

July 5th - Container Arrives Houston Port

July 9th - Container Pulled For Inspection

July 15th - Container Released From Customs

July 16th - Container Arrives Crowded House

July 19th - Goods Arrive - 2903 Saint Street & 2501 River Oaks Blvd.

Whew, . . . . . . What an Ordeal - Six Months Door-to-Door.

- - - - - -

 9:00 a.m. Crowded House Arrives To Saint Street

Shipment Held Up At Customs For Almost 2 Weeks - Very Important Travel Documents Still Sealed, hmmm.

 

Side Tables (Chevet)

Chevet Paola

Side Tables Photographed With a Crooked Elbow, ha ha ;)

                       

                                          Chevet Arthur                                               Chevet Anais

 

  

Chevet Diana

Benches

Banc Agathe

 

Banc Charles

         Banc Eddy

Dining Chairs

Chaise Amelie  

       

Chests

Romy

Paolo 

Clarisse

Consoles

Console Victoria - PM (small)
 

Console Victoria - GM (large)

      

Mirrors

Trumeau Romane (almost as tall as pretty girl)

12:00 Pouring Down Rain, ugh. No More Beautiful Photographs Outside.

Dining

Annabelle & Faustine Dining Chairs

Chaise Amelie (shown with Joanna Dining Table)

 

Buffet Table

Clarisse (shown with Trumeau Gladys)

      
 

Chest

Chest Paola

  

Console Victoria (shown with Romane Mirror)

Mirror

Trumeau Romane

       

Boudoir

Claudia Headboard (shown with Sferra Francesca Sheeting)

Lingerie Drawer

Semainier Bertrand

Charlie Headboard (shown with Peacock Alley Cleopatra Sheeting)

Jackie Headboard (shown with Matteo Bedding)

        

Love the Contrast of the Distressed Oak and Chalk Finish

      

Casual Dining

By The Shore . . . .

Joanna Dining Table (shown with Faustine Chairs)

Crazy Crab Ice Bucket - From England

 

Table Linens to Match the Sea

For Your Country Estate . . . .

French Table Linens

 

French Zinc Accessories -Eiffel Tower Napkin Rings, most charme!

Set of Three Zinc Lanterns - BD

 

French Vegetable Candles

      

Moo Cow

Blanc D'Ivoire Table Plante (Garden Table), available large and small

Little Pascal's Room

Chevet Arthur (shown with Circus Lamp)

       

     

                                                       Circus Lamp & Curtain Panels Plumetis                                                               

Little Audrey's Room

 

      

Chevet Axel (shown with Lampe Amandine)

And, For Baby Vivi

Chevet Anais

5:00 Finished!

 

- - - - -

Some Bunny is So-o-o Tired.

Next Post - Part 2: Blanc D'Ivoire Shipment finally Arrives! Indulge Linens Decor at River Oaks Blvd.- More Fabulous French Decor still to come!!! 

The Same but Different . . . . .

Blanc D'Ivoire Spring / Summer 2010 Collection

 

About six weeks ago, I got an email from my treasured contact (she speaks English, wew) at Blanc D'Ivoire to give me the heads up that my 'order' was being pulled from stock and packed for it's voyage to America, finally.

 

Excitedly, I told 'The Girls' at the store.

"Great, what is it?" J. asked.

"Is it more stuff from the September show or the other stuff from the January show?" M. asked. "It's so confusing with them."

"Are we getting the stuff we didn't get in the last shipment?" D. asked, "Because there was some cute stuff we didn't get."

I smiled all mysteriously but the truth was - those shows were a long time ago and I kinda don't remember what I ordered.  But, I'm sure it was all fabulous and each item selected with the utmost forethought and consideration, ha ha.

The truth is - I love everything Blanc D'Ivoire makes and I quit second guessing them a long time ago. My new fool-hearted approach now is - I'll take everything in that room. And, I'll take everything in that room. And, oh yeah, everything in that room. How many rooms is that?  O.K.then, I'll take everything in that room too. Is that too much for a container? I just don't know when to stop sometimes, tee hee.

My new fool proof approach is a real time saver too. I've cut my ordering time down from 3 days / 4 hours each day = 12 hours (not counting the over-obsessing-middle-of-the-night-can't-sleep hours) to one morning = 3 hours. And, the only reason it even takes me 3 hours is because there are just so many people in the booth that you have to maneuver around to scan the bar codes.

So, here are the never before seen photos from the Blanc D'Ivoire Booth, January 2010, Maison & Objet Show, Paris, France.

Booth Size: 5,000 sq. ft.

Duration of Booth at Objet Show: 5 working days

 Please note the attention to detail (remember - temporary 5 day booth) - flooring, walls, wainscoting, windows, lighting, mirrors, ceiling, . . . .

 

 

Room # 1

 Love the Flax Wainscoting on the Walls. Note - Painted Floor to Match.
 

Beautiful Mirror.

 

Room # 2

The Caned Headboards are Back!

Matching Caned Benches, too.
 

Consoles are Great to Hang TV's Over.

 

These Garden Tables Look Great Double Stacked, Even Cute for a Guest Bedroom.

 

Room # 3

These Mirrors are Too Cool, Would Look Great in an Entry, Dining Room, Family Room, or as Shown on Either Side of a Bed. Kudos - BD!

   

   

B.D.'s New  Style Chandelier - Love the Beaded Effect. Look How Great the Chandelier Looks with the Mirror.

Room #4

(For the Decorating Record, I Did Blue Wainscoting in the Original Indulge on West Alabama in Case Anyone was Wondering Why BD was Copying Me 10 years later, tee hee.)

  

How Cute is the Elephant Lamp!

   

Coat Rack - Perfect for a Mud Room or Back Door.

 


Dining Room #1

Great Serving Pieces.

Great Looking Decanters.

   

Another Beaded Chandelier.

 

Dining Room #2

(Ahem, Note Stone Flooring.)

Yes, I Got These Mirrored Windows too.

  

This Little Bird Chandelier is too Cute for a Garden Room or Little Girl's Room.

Lots of Side Tables

(But, of course.)
 

 

    

 

After looking at these photos and seeing what an incredibly beautiful job Blanc D'Ivoire does in setting up and styling a booth that will last all of 5 days and then be taken down, doesn't it make you think . . . . American cookie cutter stores . . . PB? . . . RH? . . . .C&B? Whatever ?! . . . .

If we (Blanc D'Ivoire and trusty European shipping company) all stay on schedule, the goods should arrive Houston Ship Channel Dock July 6th and my stores July 14th (stupid customs).

Oh yeah, the long awaited French container has a few other must-have Indulge items:

  

French Table Linens

 

 

 Linen Napkins

 

   

New Linen Table Runner!

And finally, the Tse Tse Vases

Large and Small Sizes Available.

And oh yeah, the rest of my Cote Bastide order from the January '10 Show is arriving too, but, by even yet a different boat!

Cote Bastide

 

   

Ceramics

 

Toscana Glassware

   

Flax Linen Table Runners

   

Glass Cloches & Olive Boards.

    

Blanc D'Ivoire Shipment Arrives!

Blanc D'Ivoire Shipment Finally Arrives!

 

       

Blanc D'Ivoire Side Tables:

       

I kinda went crazy for side tables this shipment. Blanc D'Ivoire had the best selection of side tables yet! Perfect for beside the bed, in a bath, or in a hallway nook - all have at least one drawer for storage.

Victoria Side Table

           

Love the contrast of distressed dark oak top and off white painted finish - very now, very Indulge. Or, let's say very moi.

Axel Side Table; Pompidou Side Table

        

Love the curves - you can have with or without bottom shelf, depending on your clutter level.

Blanc D'Ivoire Furniture:

Anais Mini-Cabinet

       

This might be my favorite - perfect for side table, bath cabinet, or hidden mini-bar, ha ha.

Helios Cabinet

My ideal sock drawer- 16 drawers!

Agathe Bench

This is an ideal bench, fits perfectly at the end of a queen bed. Casual and chic all in one.

 

Beautiful Blanc D'Ivoire trumeau mirror - ideal size.

    

  Blanc D'Ivoire Chandeliers:

(available in ashed metal or antique gray in three sizes)
 

Elysees PM Petite Chandelier (perfect for a bathroom, closet, or small space)

*Shown in Ashed Metal*

14 1/5 x 18" H  

Elysees GM Medium Chandelier

* Shown in Antique Grey*

20 1/5 x 24" H

Elysees XLM Large Chandelier

 

26 1/5 x 32" H 

HOW IT ALL LOOKS IN THE STORE!

BLANC D'IVOIRE VIGNETTE 1:

Baroque headboard, Axel side table, Agathe bench, Elysees XLM chandelier.

 

Shown with Sferra bed linens in "Francesca".

 

     

Axel side table ( with Maxime lamp, Juliska bedside carafe, and not-exactly-real potted rose) and Victoria chair - coordinates with Agathe bench and all other pieces in this vignette.

 

Blanc D'Ivoire is so great at detailing and finishes (leg of Agathe bench).
 

BLANC D'IVOIRE VIGNETTE 2:

Romeo headboard, Scylla side table, Charles bench.

       

Shown with Matteo "Heirloom" quilt, "Tat" duvet cover, and button accent pillows.

               

Scylla side table (with folding leaf for added surface space); Close up of Charles bench.

   

BLANC D'IVOIRE VIGNETTE 3:

Sarah headboard, Anais side table,  metal base lamp with conic style shade.

Shown with Peacock Alley "Cleopatra" bed linens in white with sand embroidery.

         

(Agatha bench would look great at the end of this bed too.)

 

BLANC D'IVOIRE VIGNETTE 4:

Nemee headboard, Antoinette chandelier, Charles bench, Eddy side table with hidden drawer, and charme metal lamp with flax shade.

Shown with Peacock Alley bed linens, linen blanket and Sferra "Bristol" throw in seamist.

Detail of headboard

(Did I mention that I special ordered one of these headboards for moi?)

      
Eddy side table with hidden drawer; Charles bench detail.

 

BLANC D'IVOIRE VIGNETTE 5: 

Ingrid headboard, Victoria side table (back), Lou side table (front), John sofa (used as bench at end of bed).

 

Shown with Matteo bed linens, "Heirloom" quilt, "Tat" duvet cover, Pine Cone Hill eyelet shams, and decorative pillows.

       

  This is our third re-order of the Ingrid headboard, available in queen and king.

 

 

 

       

BLANC D'IVOIRE VIGNETTE 6:

Noemie chest, Pompadour side tables, & Eugenie mirror
  

(shown with Custom "Audrey" Headboard, Sferra "Millesimo" bed linens, custom bedskirt, Juliska glass vase, gorgeous reproduction lamps with white shades)

 

Pompadour side tables are cute side-by-side too!

BLANC D'IVOIRE VIGNETTE 7:

Blanc D'Ivoire Bed Crown (*available in ashed metal and antique gray.) and, Honore side tables.

 

  

(shown with small reproduction urn lamp, not-exactly-real rose bush, Cote Bastide bed and bed linens, Yves Delorme "Gastby" coverlet and lot's of toys!)

    

BLANC D'IVOIRE VIGNETTE 8:

  Sarah Headboard, Romane mirror, Corentin side table, & Elysees chandelier

 

(shown with not-exactly-real orchid, Peacock Alley "Cleopatra" and "Classic Ruffle" bed linens, and custom bedskirt)

 

BLANC D'IVOIRE VIGNETTE 9:

Leonie chest, Giovanna lamps, Majorque mirror, Pauline chairs, Harmonie 3-arm sconces

(Vignette shown with Sferra Celine throw in chocolate and not-exactly-real orchids) 

  Detail of Leonie chest's aged oak finish:

 

Babeth drop leaf Dining Table, Renata chairs

(Shown with Juliska glass vase, Sferra "Celine" throws, rattan glassware)

BLANC D'IVOIRE VIGNETTE 10: 

Juliet dining table, Annabelle chairs- most charme for a breakfast room.

Chairs are very sturdy for Texas husbands, and can be dressed up for dining room chairs with a more formal table.  

    

(Shown with Juliska ceramic pitcher, not-exactly-real hydrangea stems, whitewash rattan glassware)

  

  Well, that's most of it folks! There are limited quantities of everything, so don't dawdle. We don't have anything up on the website yet, so you'll just have to obsess over these pictures and hurry in.

If you have not heard of Blanc D'Ivoire furniture before, it's O.K., we all have to come up for air sometime. Blanc D'Ivoire has seven stores in France and sells all throughout Europe; Indulge just happens to be the exclusive importer of Blanc D'Ivoire furniture to the U.S. (lucky us). I hope you enjoy the pieces as much as I have enjoyed picking them out and arranging them in our stores.

Au-revoir,

Cynthia

Paris Part V: The Work Part

C:

Oh yeah... work.

The Maison & Objet Show happens to be the reason I am in Paris.  The Show occurs twice a year - January and September. I prefer to go to the Show in September only because I prefer Paris in September. January is quite cold and I do not feel as adventurous with my sightseeing when I am miserably chilled. The Show is held at the Parque de Exposion. As a normal tourist, you should have no idea where that is.  As you leave Charles de Gaulle Airport, look up quickly because it is the next exit on your left.

See it's raining!

You can get to the Parque by subway, forty-five minutes and you have to change trains, eeech, or taxi - again, forty-five minutes, costly and traffic-ey. Pick your mode of transportation and don't whine, there is no other way.  The subway is cheap and noisey. The taxi is quiet and costly.

Once at the Objet show, you will find the show broken down by categories:

Hall One: Ethnic Chic

Hall Two: Textile

Hall Three: La Table

Hall Four: L'espace - Interior Decoration

Hall 5A: Cote Deco - Interior Decoration

Hall 5B: Now!

Hall Six: Accessories Maison

Hall Seven: Outdoor/Indoor

The first couple of years I went to the show, I walked down every aisle in Halls 2, 3, 4, 5, and 5a. Surprised ?  Now, since I spend almost my entire show budget with about ten vendors, I have a lot of time left over for sightseeing.  When I first started coming to the Paris Show, I  bought a little bit from a lot of different vendors. That worked out well for a while, but it always left the customers wanting more. Now I buy enough from each vendor to really get 'a look." If I buy a new headboard style, then I will get the bedside tables, lamps, picture frames, bench, mirror, chandelier, and chest to finish out the 'vignette.' Very few people will need to buy the whole room 'turn-key,' but you would be surprised how many customers will choose several elements from the 'collection' that will all go together, but not look overly decorated. Customers are always exclaiming how 'pulled together' the stores are. Well, let me let you in on a little secret: it's not exactly me - it's the products. I just try to stay out of the way and not muck it up too much with my own details.

Show Tips:

Bring a calculator!!! Everything you buy at this show, you must pay for in Euros. So, when you look at a price, remember to multiply by the exchange rate. Also, you will need to ship your purchases home. Another very costly expense. Somehow, you must factor the cost-of-goods purchased/exchange rate/shipping (also paid for in Euros), customs and duty, and decent markup. Whether you factor in the cost of your shopping expedition on Rue de Honore, that is up to you and your excel spreadsheet.

This year, more than usual, were the signs: NO CAMERAS! NO CAMERAS! NO CAMERAS! With almost bodyguard-looking gentlemen standing around with their French arms crossed. So, I was not able to get very many good pictures at the booths, but I have some great catalogue shots.

Cote Bastide - I went here first for inspiration. I love everything Cote Bastide. This was one of the very first lines I ever bought for my store. I actually own these plates and flatware...

(Coming Soon: Heart/Cross napkin rings in three styles. Hope there's some left for you guys!)

Oh yeah, and I own all of that. My husband gets nervous every time he sees that I own more Cote Bastide than Cote Bastide does - I have the discontinued pieces too. Ten years of collecting!

New this year: Sleepytime Cote Bastide.

 

Blanc d'Ivoire - The Blanc d'Ivoire booth is 5000 square feet! They bring in antique flooring, antique windows and doors - you actually feel as though you are at a French country home. Just to put it in perspective, their five-day temporary booth is bigger than my brick & mortar stores in Houston.

Waiting to get in line to place an order...

This is one of the busiest booths you'll see at the Paris Gift Show.

 

 

Trade Show Secret Source - linen table runners, napkins, and tablecloths. We had them last Christmas and they sold out in just a few days so I ordered twice as much. Probably still stupid shopowner, should have ordered 10 times as much.

Juliska - An American company with products made in Eastern Europe, sold at the Paris show, whooooeee! Congrats!

Love the feathers - very Vegas Showgirl.