Nikole Furnari photographer

Sometimes people wander into your life when you need them.  Such was the case with the lovely and talented photographer Nikole Furnari.
Nikole as it turned out was commissioned by Penguin in London to take the gorgeous shots that you see in the book, "At My French Table" She came into my shop one afternoon and we immediately started talking about things French, travel and we hatched a plan to do a photo shoot of some of my stock, which she subsequently did.  She also took some of me for an article in French Provincial Magazine, which is no mean feat given that I hate having photos of me done. The results are what you see here on my blog, facebook, some on our website (the good ones) front page of the current issue of French Provincial, back page on the June/July issue.  Beautiful shots evoking all things French but also what comes across here is Nikole's rapport with people.  She is a genius!

Laguiole

For all of you Francophiles out there come in and check out our Laguiole cutlery, which is high grade stainless steel made in France.  We have the Jean du Bost range which is made in Thiers, France.  We have ivory, multi coloured, red, black and some navy.  There are cheese and pate knives, cutlery sets, and lots of other bits and pieces but it's all gorgeous!!!
They all feature the bee emblem which is what Napoleon used for his heraldic symbols because bees represent teamwork and efficiency.  Very French.
There you go, learn something every day!!
We ship anywhere in Australia for free for orders over $100. 

Small Business Victoria

Just found out that we have been successful in being chosen to be represented at the Small Business Heroes Exhibition - Retail at Federation Square in Melbourne in August.  It is a photographic exhibition about our business and is showcased in Melbourne and then off to Ballarat for 10 days.  Excellent.  Come and see us at Fed Sq on Friday August 12. 

Winter Solstice

Today is the shortest day or the longest night, whichever takes your fancy.  It means from here on in the days are gradually filled with more light and hopefully sunlight.  There are still chilly days to come, warm winter scarves, open fires, red wine, quinces, and solitary walks along my favourite beach but with the promise of warmer days to come.

When I look around my beautiful shop the late afternoon rays of light flood into the spaces between the furniture and give everything a romantic look.  The chandeliers twinkle brighter, the warm comfy salons look inviting and I'm often tempted to curl up on the Napoleonic day bed in the winter like a cat having an afternoon nap in the sun.... mmm.  but customers await!

Just because it’s beautiful…(and French)

Just because it’s beautiful…(and French)

Are they whippets or are they greyhound?

There is much discussion about whether these gorgeous nickel dogs are whippets or greyhound.  The consensus seems to be whippet from those who have a passionate interest in this breed.  Any way you look at them though they are gorgeous.  They stand 70 cm high x about 20 cm across and won't tarnish.  Sitting squarely and solidly they are not easily toppled.  Call in for a closer look at these regal animals.  Although new they have a touch of art deco about them.  They're priced at $375 each or $725 for the pair.

Empire chandelier. Sorry but both gone now.

We've been waiting for nearly 6 months for these gorgeous chandeliers to reappear.  They are 1.1 metres high and stunning.  Come into the shop and cast your eyes above the counter if you want to see how they look.  We only have 2 which are off being rewired to Australian standards at the moment but they will go quickly.  If you want to have these beauties in your home contact us, but quickly!!  Email ashbyhouseinteriors@bigpond.com or phone on 03 52581907.