tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-341023102011-11-27T16:25:58.253-08:00As owner of Edwards Drapery & Interiors, I create and supply beautiful window fashions for both residential and commercial clients. I can provide window coverings from quality suppliers such as Hunter Douglas and Graber, or create custom designs incorporating stunning fabrics and gorgeous trims complemented by designer hardware.edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.comBlogger841100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-63263526084714308592011-07-28T15:33:00.000-07:002011-07-28T15:33:35.992-07:00

I love my Chevy Equinox. When it was time for a new vehicle a number of years ago, I researched various vehicles to see which would best suit my window covering needs. My requirements were fairly few but important to me. I was looking for something a little smaller and more economical than the Chevy Suburban we had owned, and more reliable than the Windstar minivan we were driving. I needed a

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-75353260734164547552011-02-07T20:17:00.000-08:002011-02-07T20:17:51.910-08:00

A favorite client felt her the window treatments in her dining room needed some updating and I was happy to help her. We began with ruby red embroidered faux silk fabric that sparkled in the light of the chandelier, lined and interlined for body and durability. We decided to use a French pleat heading and English hem, a style not seen too frequently here in our corner of the Pacific Northwest.

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-76879833394586063652010-12-20T08:14:00.000-08:002010-12-20T08:14:29.936-08:00

My husband received this email today from our son, LCpl Reece Lodder. It speaks for itself. Hey Dad, Please pass this on to the family. I don't have everyone's addresses on my Marine Corps email. This is a goosebump-inducing testament to why Marines, sailors, soldiers and airman fight for the U.S. and each other. Semper fidelis, Reece Sent: 12/5/2010 8:00:45 P.M. Pacific Standard

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-88687903627467752032010-11-29T11:45:00.000-08:002010-11-29T11:45:53.987-08:00

It's time to celebrate! At this time of year it's a good time to show some appreciation for the wonderful clients I have met over the last 8 years and for those in my supporting community.  Please join my husband and myself as we showcase beautiful window fashions by Edwards Drapery & Interiors as well as gorgeous watercolor artwork by Victoria Wickell.  Enter to win: a free Springs Window

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-8459191846104025622010-11-24T10:23:00.000-08:002010-11-24T10:23:11.013-08:00

I'm looking forward to tomorrow - Thanksgiving Day! And what better way to get in the mood than by completing a task I had been putting off for a while - handwriting "thank you" cards to clients whose projects were recently completed. I try to do this every few weeks to express appreciation for business received. It was wonderful to reflect on the wonderful people I met in the last few weeks and

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-5745599542359240452010-11-09T19:21:00.000-08:002010-11-09T19:28:41.936-08:00

It's hard to believe that the energy tax credit is going to be gone very soon! There are clients who will be kicking themselves that they did not take advantage of this credit of up to $1500. Hunter Douglas' Duette Architella shades are the only window fashions right now that qualify for this credit.  They are the most energy efficient cell shade on the market, helping you save money on your

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-10998196329152101452010-11-01T16:01:00.000-07:002010-11-01T16:01:26.862-07:00

Last week a friend forwarded a video link to me. I don't usually click on them, especially if they are 20 minutes long. There simply aren't enough hours in the day. This time, trusting the friend's good sense, I clicked. What a treat it was to hear Benjamin Zander on music and passion. It's well worth spending the time to view this clip which speaks of so much more than music. Conductor and

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-28417606241340165312010-08-17T09:11:00.000-07:002010-08-17T09:11:51.099-07:00

I'll remember the first day of the fair as HOT. With temperatures reaching 93 degrees in the afternoon, everyone was just plain hot. You could see it in the faces of the little children; you could see it in the tired shuffle of the senior citizens that thronged the Fair. Even with the heat, there was excitement in the air! The Fair looked as sparkling clean and bright as always. The new horse

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-58851379522825843022010-07-29T15:36:00.000-07:002010-07-29T15:38:18.717-07:00

I'm excited! I'm counting down the days to the opening of the Northwest Washington Fair here in the small but beautiful town of Lynden. The Fair gives me the opportunity to show my work to a large and varied audience and it's something I look forward to all year. It enables me to meet new clients and reconnect with clients I've done work for in the past. I've been prepping for a while already.

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-57484328938629790502010-07-02T22:11:00.000-07:002010-07-29T11:39:42.515-07:00

I spent a wonderful day a few weeks ago being deliciously pampered at the Chrysalis Inn & Spa in Bellingham, WA. Earlier in the year, I was blessed to be able to provide the Spa with beautiful mossy green chenille floor to ceiling drapes for one of their treatment rooms. The purpose of the drape was to ensure a tranquil experience for the Spa's many clients, thus the drape was lined and

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-54141400178771679262010-07-01T16:34:00.000-07:002010-07-29T11:43:11.666-07:00

I am not a morning person. Let me be very clear about that. Yet, for the past three years, I have been getting up at the unspeakably early hour of 6 a.m. and heading to Bellingham. Why? Connections. Not just because of the connections I have made, or will make, but because of Connections. That's the name of the business networking group of which I am a member. I pulled some info from the

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-26699976291385240972010-05-14T09:36:00.000-07:002010-05-17T11:10:45.272-07:00

Imagineering our window fashions was the focus of Gillian's first seminar of the day. She wowed us with photos of beautiful window fashions that illustrated the Seven Basic Principles of Design. Gillian showed examples of designs taken to a whole new height by using hardware in non-conventional ways and thinking outside of the box. She encouraged us to incorporate ideas from the home furnishings,

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-46278497654123640672010-05-14T06:07:00.000-07:002010-05-14T06:07:19.950-07:00

Jackie dynamically dealt with the question: Is social media optional if you want to succeed in business today? Her feeling is: Participate or die! The main focus should be on getting more business and making more money. Everything radiates out from your website and drives people back to the website. She encouraged us to develop a New Media Plan by: - researching the platforms - participating

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-42942657417978517142010-05-13T13:15:00.000-07:002010-05-13T13:15:59.074-07:00

Stevenson Vestal's rep (booth 1050) briefly demonstrated the Safe-T-Shade, a soft shade combined with a spring roller. This shade has no exposed cords and meets current safety criteria. The back side is a traditional shade in a variety of fabrics. this shade has no tracking problems due to a patent-pending J-clip and is comparably priced to a Rollease shade. Maximum shade width is

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-87605297215888848252010-05-13T09:26:00.000-07:002010-05-13T09:26:23.357-07:00

Jeanelle Dech gave the design professionals present a real treat this morning. Using illustrations from her own workroom, she showed us beautiful examples of window illusions. The window transformations were stunning, combining fabrics, trims, textures, color and designs. Key is listening to the client and creating the window fashions they desire, even if it is not your first choice. However

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-25161874761833840832010-05-13T06:16:00.000-07:002010-05-13T06:16:31.074-07:00

The International Window Coverings Expo, held in Atlanta May 12-15 this year, is a treasure trove of information, seminars and products from leaders in the window coverings industry and beyond. Debbie Green of Minutes Matter shared her knowledge on Cloud Computing, introducing many of us to GoogleApps, its functionality and capabilities. We were wowed by the possibilities of Google Docs.

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-14302140238480810912010-05-12T13:22:00.000-07:002010-05-12T14:13:07.071-07:00

Susan started today's last seminar with a bang, showing us beautiful and functional drapery hardware from a wide variety of manufacturers. I was really impressed with Iron Art's Clip-A-Crown and want to get a close look at it in their booth.  Some of the supplies featured: Somfy's motorized shade is a show special - I want to get my hands on that one! Wavy Drape is a two part tape which

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-7073037826821497782010-05-12T13:10:00.000-07:002010-05-12T13:10:25.313-07:00

Michele (www.scarletthreadinteriors.com) led us through her journey to the window fashions industry and detailed her start in the industry -with one sewing machine, one table and one iron. Using the phone tree she employs, Michele discussed the initial phone screening of a client and stressed that not everyone is our client. What questions should we ask at the initial screening and what do

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-74635071093735268402010-05-12T07:18:00.000-07:002010-05-12T07:18:27.801-07:00

I'm sitting in my first class, FutureVision: Interior Design in the Year 2020 taught by Susan Schultz. What an apt way to begin Vision 10! I'm so intent on her ideas that I just startled the person sitting ahead of my by knocking my water over and splashing her. Oops! Susan's outlining changing trends, forcing us to face up to the reality that as design professionals we need to change as well.

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-28810672740815677982010-05-11T12:31:00.000-07:002010-05-11T12:31:35.888-07:00

Well, we made it to Atlanta despite nearly missing our flight! And from the notifications flooding my inbox, it seems as if everyone is about to leave, is leaving, or has left, if they're not here already! My hubby and I walked the floor already this morning - he was staggering under the load of material for the trueIMAGE Publishing booth. It was a hum of activity; people bustling about,

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-88842001355834912662010-04-29T13:38:00.000-07:002010-04-29T13:38:15.322-07:00

It presents a quandary: A client you've worked with for years has stumbled upon a bedcover she just loves, buys it, along with ready made drapes and pillow shams. Then comes the phone call: "Please, can you use this to make window treatments for my bedroom?" This is not something I usually do, or even like to do. Neither does the workroom. But for this client we made an exception and created a

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-11349038863381420032010-04-26T09:38:00.000-07:002010-04-26T09:43:24.559-07:00

These Bellingham clients love classic styles with maximum impact. They decided their dining room was the next room that needed the softening effect that drapes could provide. To complement colors in the wallpaper wainscoting, a bronze silk from Kasmir Fabrics with beautiful slubs and sheen was chosen for the pinch pleated overdrapes. Shimmery sheers decorated with scroll-like embroidery

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-54381767158720602762010-03-29T21:25:00.000-07:002010-03-29T21:25:54.648-07:00

The owners of this spacious Lynden home wanted their window coverings to bring out the beauty and character of their antique sofa. We began by creating a classic design of swags and panels using DreamDraper software.A lustrous faux silk fabric dotted with gold was chosen for the valance and panels.  Delicate sheers provided a soft backdrop; bullion trim and tassels were the finishing touch for

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-23918269508373504952010-03-23T21:00:00.000-07:002010-03-23T21:14:30.788-07:00

 Design collaboration: Debra Lysy, ASID and Tammi LeNair, L'Interieur LeNairPhotography: Peter Leach Photography The new 2011 Window Fashions Calendar is ready to print! Together with the publisher, trueIMAGE Publishing, we finalized the copy this past week. It features imaginative designs by Anne Lubner, Tammi LeNair and myself. The calendar is not up on the trueIMAGE website quite yet,

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-34811096932455479822010-03-13T18:47:00.000-08:002010-03-15T10:08:33.909-07:00

  This Bellingham client had recently completed a beautiful remodel of her bathroom. However, she requested we create a window covering solution that provided privacy, beauty, practicality, and sound absorption. Our solution: a top-down bottom up cell shade paired with a thickly padded cornice in a patterned faux silk, accompanied by softly striped washable sheers that perfectly echoed the

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-29673165452679218762010-03-08T14:30:00.000-08:002010-03-08T14:30:31.063-08:00

When these Pacific Northwestern clients added onto their home, they didn't realize just what a problem the sun would be. Their beautiful family room needed protection from the ultraviolet rays that streamed through the large windows. As well, the clients desired occasional privacy without blocking the view. For the bottom windows, Hunter Douglas Silhouette shadings in a neutral cream shade

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-81437106782676816662010-02-03T18:41:00.001-08:002010-02-03T19:20:40.633-08:00

This week we installed Hunter Douglas' motorized Duettes for a special client. As you enter her stunning log home, you see a wall of glass on the far side of the great room. Two large pairs of French doors are topped by stacked sets of windows, reaching up to the arched 20 foot ceiling. The vista beyond the windows is gorgeous, framing Mt. Baker in the distance, with nearer views of the river and

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-12216943334886731992009-12-23T19:40:00.000-08:002009-12-23T20:04:03.636-08:00

These past few years clients have received a personalized calendar from me as a thank you, one of the beautiful calendars created by trueIMAGE Publishing. And a letter, most of which you'll see here. At the end of another year, I’m reflecting on the blessings of this past year and the years that have gone before. In my almost eight years of doing business, I have met so many wonderful clients,

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-1393787158520039612009-12-02T10:25:00.000-08:002009-12-02T11:00:45.146-08:00

How many of you carry boxes of window coverings or other things that are too heavy for you, or too bulky, or just too awkward? I think we've all been there! Thanksgiving is over and done. I'd meant to post a Blessings blog but in the busyness of the weekend, it simply didn't happen. But after yesterday, it became even more apparent that I needed to stop and count my blessings.Yesterday a new

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-9312317889079063312009-11-11T11:41:00.000-08:002009-11-11T13:06:05.671-08:00

Snow is falling in the Mount Baker ski area! It's getting cold out there! The layer of snow blanketing the area is a beautiful sight, but the cold has its own set of challenges.When a favorite client called to see what I could do about blocking the cold from coming in her large French doors and the picture windows atop them, I was happy to have solutions for her. Our first line of defense was

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-7669158126620247022009-11-05T14:29:00.000-08:002009-11-05T15:02:53.648-08:00

Grace McNamara and the WFCP team kicked off a new era in the Window Fashions Certified Program! In their words, "We’ve been hard at work behind the scenes so we can offer window covering pros the BEST certification and membership program in the industry." The launch party included a motivational presentation by Drew Gerber of Pitchrate.com, a PR guru, who discussed key steps in promoting oneself

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-90526530255746622702009-10-28T17:33:00.000-07:002009-10-28T18:04:17.620-07:00

Today's keynote speaker was the charismatic Duff Goldman of Charm City Cakes in Baltimore, perhaps better known from his TV show Ace of Cakes. He entertained and inspired with his frank and humorous speaking style and stories. It was easy to see why his show is such a hit!The afternoon was crowned by the seminar led by Deb Barrett and Susan Schultz. They were familiar faces to me, as I had met

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-61208636619265715942009-10-28T16:40:00.000-07:002009-10-28T18:01:28.104-07:00

Day One of NeoConEast - what could I expect? Heavy Baltimore traffic delayed my arrival but when I did enter the Convention Center, I was thronged by fellow attendees, all eager to view the show floor and hear a wide range of speakers on a variety of topics.NeoConEast bills itself as "the premier design exposition and conference for commercial interiors with a focus on the federal government."

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-74126343612702895982009-10-21T22:15:00.000-07:002009-10-21T22:46:29.078-07:00

I finally completed all of the webinars to receive certification as a Hunter Douglas Professional Dealer! I made it my goal this month to complete the course and last evening polished off the last one.What's so special about that? Why am I excited? I've been selling Hunter Douglas products like the Silhouette and Pirouette window shadings for quite a few years already. But now I've taken it to a

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-71776204435150756182009-10-14T19:51:00.000-07:002009-10-14T21:11:21.213-07:00

I just received a brochure today for a new line of drapery hardware by Ado. I've always loved Ado's gorgeous and innovative fabrics; I'm excited about this addition to their product line-up. My sales rep, Lisa, is always very good about coming to visit in this far corner of creation and keeping me up to date; she had shown me this hardware line a few months ago and I was eagerly awaiting the

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-57412081567683712722009-09-22T21:11:00.000-07:002009-09-22T22:09:39.420-07:00

Fantastic Fall Savings are here! We are offering great savings from two great companies this fall - Hunter Douglas and Graber Window Fashions! Hunter Douglas is promoting their SEASON OF GIVING from Sept. 25 - Dec. 15 with generous rebates between $25 - $600 per window on window coverings such as Duettes, Skyline Gliding Window Panels, Silhouette Window Shadings, Luminettes, and Vignettes. As

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-2840042679470560332009-09-07T10:34:00.000-07:002009-09-07T10:43:51.628-07:00

Heading out the door in a few minutes for a church picnic. Time to mingle with family and friends, to reflect on the blessings we have in this great country of ours. A good time to give thanks for the labor that we do have. Even if it has been a little slower this summer, I am thankful that with the change in the weather, the phone is ringing and the orders are coming in. Blessings: to have a

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-65420328536000610642009-08-27T15:13:00.000-07:002009-08-27T21:02:30.164-07:00

Major Recall of Blinds and Shades after Child Deaths, the headlines screamed yesterday. 5.5 million blinds and shades were recalled by six different manufacturers yesterday, after three children died after being strangled by loose cords. CNN Money carried an excellent article detailing the companies involved and more of the facts surrounding the recall. A Consumer Product Safety Commission

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-11216063317444725652009-08-22T10:57:00.000-07:002009-08-22T17:55:50.126-07:00

It's been hard to get a blog post in today with the busy-ness all around. It's great to see so many people here after a quiet few days in the middle of the week. Yesterday was a good day for many of the vendors; we are hoping for another one today.What makes a good fair or trade show for us vendors? I thought I would ask around. First of all: people, lots of them, preferably friendly. Personable,

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-42972144807396930532009-08-21T14:41:00.000-07:002009-08-21T15:30:25.149-07:00

Somebody flipped a switch and the Northwest Washington Fair just came ALIVE! It was another quiet morning and early afternoon, and then the sun came out and so did the people. Maybe they finally realized that there weren't too many more opportunities to enjoy all that Lynden's own home-grown fair has to offer.Our little row of vendors has become quite close in the past few days. Of course, many

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-67946338835607528782009-08-20T15:03:00.000-07:002009-08-20T17:20:06.057-07:00

There's an air of excitement at the Fair today. I don't know if it's because of Foreigner on stage tonight, the fact that it's almost the weekend, or the slightly cooler temperatures. But everyone just seems a little more energized and a little happier. I'm excited that the internet is working today - all day. A midday update was possible today, in between talking with potential new clients and

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-84159265230229591952009-08-19T23:36:00.000-07:002009-08-19T23:54:23.301-07:00

The morning began with great promise; a very interested couple even before the fair was officially open. It ended well; speaking with clients who were moving into a new home and needed my services again. In between - well, let's just say there was ample time for reflection. And who can blame anyone - the morning started out warm and proceeded to get even warmer. By mid-afternoon everyone was

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-86470039569688171912009-08-18T11:53:00.000-07:002009-08-18T23:56:19.044-07:00

It's a quiet Tuesday morning; the weather is warming up and the crowds are a little sparse. Lots of seniors - is it senior day today? - and lots of kids in barn boots with tramping through the aisles with purposeful glares. It's funny how the seniors and the kids alike eye my candy bowl with glee. I'm missing my family. Today Reece graduates from Marine Combat Training at Camp Pendleton and I'm

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-77711784676118596772009-08-17T15:25:00.001-07:002009-08-17T16:38:59.887-07:00

And here we go again! There's a buzz in the air as the vendors slowly make their way into the commercial buildings here at the Northwest Washington Fair in picturesque Lynden, Washington. Exhibits are uncovered, displays are rearranged, dust removed, and last minute details completed. What will this week bring? The recession has been relatively kind to this area of the state; how will that

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-45861726633662326182009-08-15T15:26:00.001-07:002009-08-15T16:09:58.297-07:00

Saturday, two days to go to the Northwest Washington Fair in Lynden. My display is set up and looks great! It's the same Vignette that I exhibited at the International Window Covering Exhibition in Atlanta a few months ago. I'm excited and ready to face a week of 13 hour days again, greeting old clients and meeting new ones. This fair is one of the old-time, good-time, all-time great fairs. There

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-73409885752828431332009-08-13T14:21:00.000-07:002009-08-13T15:01:29.421-07:00

One of the best investments I have made in the past year has been a pair of magnetic signs for my work vehicle. I drive a Chevy Equinox to appointments; it doubles as a family vehicle on the weekends. For that reason I have been reluctant to put any permanent signs on my workhorse; however, Tim at SpecialT Signs and Graphics came up with a perfect solution. He created magnetic signs closely color

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-31712193893483600362009-08-03T09:27:00.000-07:002009-08-03T09:27:18.376-07:00

window + fashion: Beating the Heat with Window Coverings

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-64079974969158541012009-08-03T08:42:00.000-07:002009-08-03T09:22:03.398-07:00

Last week the heat was incredible in the Pacific Northwest. We broke the all-time heat record in Seattle,hitting 103 degrees and then further north in Bellingham, close to my home, with a whopping 96 degrees by the water.I'm thankful for all the clients I have in this economy, so I am grateful to be able to have installs to do. In this heat, though, I am doubly thankful that I have a great

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-34053570925366452812009-07-30T15:33:00.000-07:002009-07-30T15:53:23.643-07:00

Did you guess what it was? Yes, it surely is my Leica Disto Laser Measure! Today at a client's new home I measured 31 windows in less than half an hour, top and bottom windows, doors, up and down stairs, in 90 degree heat. I purchased my Disto a few years ago, wincing as I looked at the price, but it has paid for itself many times over. I didn't mismeasure often, but even once a year was too

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-752677927847864192009-07-28T22:20:00.000-07:002009-07-28T23:27:13.572-07:00

A few weeks ago, I received a good dose of inspiration from an email I received. Only seven individuals became Hunter Douglas Certified Professional Dealers in June; a designer whose work I admire was one of the seven. Quite an feat - HD sent out an email notifying all dealers of their accomplishment! This program is thorough and encompasses a wide range, from Hunter Douglas products such as

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-90418526766689686032009-07-15T22:30:00.000-07:002009-07-15T23:11:15.706-07:00

The words of Lee Greenwood's song echoed in my thoughts as I watched 311 brand new United States Marines march in formation at their Graduation Ceremony at the United States Marine Corps Recruit Depot in San Diego just over a week ago. I swallowed a lump in my throat, hand held over heart, as I listened to the band perform the National Anthem, looking at those ranks of solemn-faced young

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-54077906795504838272009-06-27T07:50:00.000-07:002009-06-27T08:23:38.411-07:00

A few days ago I was reading the latest edition of By Design magazine, published by the Seattle Home Center. One of the lines in an article by Kay Stewart & Craig Cross read "Service is the new luxury" really struck me. Initially I thought, "Yes, right on!" I've had a few days, a few service calls, a few installations to reflect on that line. Is that really true for me? For you? Are you doing

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-32329927311197608132009-06-08T20:03:00.000-07:002009-06-08T20:38:25.069-07:00

Life can change in a moment. I know, what a cliche. You hear it so often, and it never seems to apply to you. But yesterday, in one quick moment, life's paradigms shifted for me - again.I've had a few of those in my life. The "aha" moment I knew that the young man I was dating would be the man I would marry and spend my life with; those wonder-filled moments I met the eyes of my newly-born

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-54987796588624169262009-06-01T22:13:00.000-07:002009-06-01T22:34:04.121-07:00

A red-letter day in our family! My husband Bob turned 50! It's hard to believe that we're getting that old - but hey, with six grandchildren and the seventh on the way, I guess we've earned our years. I decided that something extra-special was called for to mark the occasion.My husband's family is Canadian, and spread across the country. Why not gather them in a scenic place and surprise my

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-81090488857016120072009-05-26T15:15:00.000-07:002009-05-26T15:41:40.648-07:00

A few days ago it was time to install again at one of my favorite clients. I've worked on several rooms in her home; this time she wanted to add window treatments to her office. There were existing shades already; Silhouettes in two of the windows and a top-down bottom-up woven wood shade in the other window, but this client needed more than just the basics. She needed to come into this room,

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-37227207247270923202009-05-19T09:50:00.000-07:002009-05-19T10:30:08.117-07:00

I'm back and I've had a few days to reflect on the experience that was Vision'09. I think I'll still be processing ideas and sights for quite a while to come.For a small business owner such as myself, it is always a huge investment of time and money to make the trip cross country, so I needed to weigh carefully the pros and cons of going. I have attended IWCE in the past, so I could better judge

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-42970091429082726362009-05-15T09:40:00.000-07:002009-05-15T09:42:12.832-07:00

Back to the Georgia World Congress Center one last time. The day begins with Somfy’s Motorization seminar. I’m interested especially in the motorized shades that are sun-activated. Just suction cup the sensor onto the window, and when the sun’s bright, down comes the shade! There are so many options and possibilities in motorization.Then off to an in-depth workshop by Terri Booser on

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-83662389335972738892009-05-15T06:47:00.000-07:002009-05-15T09:40:54.484-07:00

Early afternoon - time to head over to TrendSpot! First a little social networking, trading some Twitter aliases and blog addresses, before several of us Vignette designers answer questions about our displays.Let's back up a little. A few months ago a call went out, asking for window fashions designers to apply to create a Vignette, one window treatment, to be displayed at IWCE09. The designers

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-43976498940280390102009-05-14T13:08:00.000-07:002009-05-15T06:04:02.573-07:00

Well, after yesterday's completely full and exhausting day, I just couldn't make myself get up at 6 to be at the show by 8. I strolled in just after 9, thankful that the traffic cooperated, just in time for Susan Shultz' great seminar on How to Guarantee Your Clients Value Your Work. We consistently undervalue ourselves and thus our work - Susan urged us to get out of the rut of thinking that we

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-74059546046483205032009-05-13T14:30:00.000-07:002009-05-13T16:10:19.416-07:00

The day ended with the WOW (World of Windows) Awards, sponsored by Hunter Douglas, hosted by HD's Joe Jankoski and WFCP's Grace McNamara. Tonight we celebrated winners, first, the winners of the Window Fashion Vision09 Design Competition Awards. They shared their creative vision and the inspiration behind their beautiful window treatments. We were encouraged to think about applying motorization

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-8906934199229643402009-05-13T10:11:00.000-07:002009-05-13T16:11:55.297-07:00

I'm just blown away by the quality of the seminars that I've been to so far! The biggest problem I've had though, is that I haven't been able to attend them all.I've just finished a great lunch capped by an exhilarating talk laced with humor by the keynote speaker, Kelly McCormick. She brings years of experience dealing with people, with salespeople, years of business ownership, and is now a much

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-21698830685201416692009-05-13T06:13:00.000-07:002009-05-13T13:00:00.576-07:00

Anticipation! The buzz started as we waited in line to register. It was great to meet up with acquaintances old and new then head for the kick-off session of the show!The morning started off with a bang - Grace McNamara, the President and CEO of Window Fashions VISION MAGAZINE, hosting the hot topic for window covering professionals - how do you price, and make a profit? Do you set a gross margin

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-54886861503861498162009-05-13T03:59:00.000-07:002009-05-13T04:09:34.351-07:00

It's finally here! It seems like I've been waiting and planning for this forever! It must still be the child in me; the anticipation is always half of the fun!I arrived into Atlanta yesterday, flying through the night the long way around via Seattle and Detroit. What a blessing it was to be able to check into the hotel early - very early - and get a few hours of sleep before I headed over to the

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-27497541158197403242009-04-20T23:07:00.000-07:002009-04-20T23:49:55.781-07:00

This odyssey began last spring with the selection of a rose colored silk. Ah, that rose colored silk had been the the object of a long search for the perfect shade to match the flowers in the fabric covered couch and loveseat in the family room. But that was only the beginning...The design came together quite easily. Three elegantly shaped cornices with side panels, two for the windows and one

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-27848690547219989472009-04-09T15:06:00.000-07:002009-04-09T15:40:12.806-07:00

It was a great day for a drive, down south I5 toward Mt. Vernon to attend our local Hunter Douglas Premieres workshop. The sun peeked through the clouds from time to time, the first cherry trees were blossoming and that fresh green tint to the bushes and shrubs showed that leaves were budding. All heightened that sense of anticipation - what would Hunter Douglas come up with this spring? What new

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-66262681185660852522009-04-07T16:20:00.000-07:002009-04-07T16:39:33.339-07:00

A little more reflective today. Yesterday I went with several of the children to witness our fourth child be sworn in as a US Marine. A proud moment for parents - to have a son put into action his expressed desire to serve his country. A bittersweet moment - letting go of the child you have raised for 19 years and watching him begin to fulfill his dream. He headed for boot camp very shortly

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-42008995794489136412009-03-26T12:41:00.000-07:002009-03-26T12:59:35.033-07:00

Today's blog is a reflection on a comment made by a Facebook friend, Marie Mouradian. She questioned whether the economy is really as bad as the news portrays it, and concluded it wasn't. I'll include some comments I posted in reaction: "Yesterday I reflected with a client on how blessed we truly are in this great country. Daily, I continue to work hard, provide excellent service, and strive to

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-10795697201640521722009-03-25T19:09:00.000-07:002009-03-25T19:25:37.426-07:00

Another episode in the life of a multi-tasking custom window drapery fashionista! Sometimes juggling a million different balls can be a little crazy. Today Maya at Mindfly.com had some great ideas on how to finetune my website. Of course, we had to detour for a moment and have a look at some of the website stats showing up on Google Analytics and what they meant... What? Twitter's not installed

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-7343790507325422322009-03-23T13:13:00.000-07:002009-03-25T17:10:22.358-07:00

Sometimes the right fabric just really isn't the right fabric! And how do you deal with that? I ran into that problem late last year. As I sat with a client flipping through sample fabrics, one caught her eye. It was a beautiful striped faux silk, with beige and peach colored stripes of varying intensities and tiny stripes of gold. The colors were perfect with her walls, carpet and room. What was

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-24008497793480744632009-03-16T12:53:00.000-07:002009-03-25T17:08:16.124-07:00

Two weeks ago I heard from Deb Barrett that I was one of twelve designers who would be creating Vignettes for the International Window Coverings Expo in Atlanta this May! Wow, was I excited! What an opportunity to showcase my creativity and ideas to an audience of 6,000 or so window fashions design professionals! But then the nerves set in - briefly. What was I thinking? Could I do it? It wasn't

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-70019574328413100212009-03-13T13:26:00.000-07:002009-03-25T17:22:26.126-07:00

Okay, I admit it, I am stalling. I really should be cleaning the house, since I have a whole day with no appointments - wow, what a luxury! - but instead I spent the morning ordering fabric for a client and updating the website. And I have to admit it, that was a job that I am glad to be finished with again. At least, for this month!Up to now, I have managed my website on my own, but it was time

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-7078187887141673902009-02-18T20:01:00.000-08:002009-03-25T17:20:48.851-07:00

Lynden is a spotless little town nestled between the foothills and the Pacific waters. Dairy herds dot the countryside; raspberry fields march in ordered rows up and down gentle slopes; the people are hardworking and friendly. And some own beautiful homes that cry out for that finishing touch - gorgeous draperies. Late last year one such homeowner came calling. Her formal parlor and dining room

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-30605411269473916682009-02-07T20:47:00.000-08:002009-03-25T17:28:50.018-07:00

Last year Camano Island homeowners presented me with a real challenge. One wall of the great room of their home perched high on a hill is composed of a series of three arched, stacked picture windows looking out on a gorgeous vista of islands dotting the peaceful waters below. The room faces south and on a sunny day light fills the space. The existing shadings were simply inadequate; the

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-45633076018101838292009-01-15T12:31:00.000-08:002009-03-25T17:31:29.802-07:00

And what will this year bring? That's the question on the mind of so many people today. I'm stepping forward in trust this year again, trusting that we will be provided for, and looking at the blessings in my life. Two of my largest suppliers have announced that they are leaving Washington State in some form: Hunter Douglas is shutting down its plant in Renton, and Source Window Coverings has

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-4939814950330104052008-12-15T21:24:00.001-08:002009-03-25T17:24:49.282-07:00

And I am desperately trying to get my newsletter and calendar out before then. I have to say - they look great! I am still doing a double sided one page newsletter for now, in color. I always include a coupon, and try to keep it upbeat and informative. This year my calendar features beautiful homes. They're provided by a company called trueIMAGE Publishing, a local company who specializes in

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-57161694252437435362008-11-08T08:41:00.000-08:002008-11-08T08:51:11.851-08:00

But this time of a different kind... the drapery kind. Think bronze silk interlined draperies held back by a large black and bronze tasseled tieback with beads, overlaying softly pleated embroidered sheers with a slight metallic sheen. In sunlight, candlelight, at night with the chandelier lit, the draperies glow and sparkle, to highlight the depth and richness of the silk fabric. A stunning

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-47701916056480847192008-10-28T09:54:00.000-07:002008-10-28T10:07:43.970-07:00

I've had the opportunity to travel this week, and it's given me a bit of time for reflection. What a beautiful autumn we have experienced in Whatcom County! The colors have been gorgeous, more radiant than I've seen in years, mornings have been crisp warming to pleasant sunny days... This is the first soccer season we've experienced that every Saturday - game day - has been dry. There are so many

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-20519115242035518022008-10-18T15:11:00.000-07:002008-10-18T15:35:01.102-07:00

Yes, I am continuing in my quest to automate my processes at a client's home or business. I purchased a wireless printer a few weeks ago. My 5 pound wonder connects to my tablet PC using Bluetooth technology, and is cordless and very portable.Now I can take a digital photo, transfer it to my tablet PC, and then begin designing on that photo using DreamDraper software. Preliminary designs can be

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-84809157768215529722008-09-13T10:38:00.000-07:002008-09-13T10:46:59.396-07:00

It's a glorious Saturday morning, and here I am in front of the computer again. I guess I shouldn't complain, since I am entering orders and visa charges, but this would not top my list of favorite things to do on a Saturday. It is amazing just how much paperwork a small business generates and how detail oriented you have to be in this business. All the more reason to eliminate steps by

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-7835063239870699252008-09-11T21:45:00.000-07:002008-09-11T22:03:30.947-07:00

I have to admit, here in the Pacific Northwest I have not designed many window fashions with trim. My rationale was that PNW home design just doesn't lend itself to adding bullion, tassels and expensive tiebacks. Plus I live in a corner of the country filled with staunch pennysavers, where price is often an issue. Adding trim adds to cost... so no trim.I'm changing my tune, thanks to one set of

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-17885036159035599362008-09-11T21:36:00.000-07:002008-09-11T22:06:51.359-07:00

Hard to believe two years have passed almost to the day since I first conceived of blogging. And then did nothing. Since then, I've continued on my merry window covering ways, designing, selling and installing more blinds, shades, drapes, valances and cornices.... but not blogging. And what have I been missing? It's a whole new world out here. Two years ago I wrote about the technophobia in our

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-1157806334748584482006-09-09T05:45:00.000-07:002006-09-09T05:52:14.750-07:00

I have been fortunate in the last four years to have good relationships with my window covering suppliers. My biggest problem has been getting good discounts from some of the bigger companies because I am a relatively small volume business. Should that disqualify me from better discounts? Other companies don't think so and charge me the same as their big accounts. How have other companies dealt

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-1157805924593267042006-09-09T05:09:00.000-07:002006-09-09T05:45:24.600-07:00

Why are window covering professionals such technophobes? Shortly after I entered this profession I attended a seminar put on by a great group of people, Grace McNamara Inc. They do the largest window fashions Expo in the U.S. and do a great job of it. However, while attending, I snapped pix with my digital camera and downloaded them immediately into the notes I was taking on my laptop. I could

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34102310.post-1157781685798009372006-09-08T22:59:00.000-07:002006-09-09T05:04:21.790-07:00

A first post is somewhat intimidating, like a huge wall of bare windows and a client who stares at you blankly saying, "I don't know what to do." So jump in feet first... introductions are in order.I'm a purveyor of eye candy for windows - in plain English, I design and sell window coverings. They can be as prosaic as white aluminum miniblinds (yes, they are still around!) to custom Roman shades

edwardsdraperyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18288636192986359971noreply@blogger.com0