April 2019

I’m not sure how the weather is where you are today, but here in Ellensburg it sure is beautiful. The Spring flowers are in bloom, the sun is shining; and in a rare Spring moment, the wind is calm. It’s really my opinion of a perfect April afternoon in Central Washington.

Though downtown remains charming throughout the year, its days like these that remind me of all of the beauty and history that lives in the unique few blocks in the heart of town.

It’s easy to get caught up in routine and move through life as quickly as possible, trying to get as much done in 24 hours as a person can. But some days moving a little slower and truly appreciating our surroundings is a refreshing change. Today is one of those days for me. A day to really absorb what gives Downtown Ellensburg and Fitterer’s so much character, and what makes working and living here so wonderful.

Spending my work week in the oldest furniture store in the state and turning the handle of a centuries old cash register is a special thing to say the least. Even heading to the post office is a more than just a daily task. Passing by dozens of historical brick buildings adorned in nostalgic artwork makes for more than a basic duty; it creates a noteworthy daily walk.

Coming in to work and finding new photos from festivals gone by, a promotional memento from the past or a newspaper clipping with a decades old date always makes me smile. I love that we get to feature and celebrate the history of this town, and this store that has beat the odds for longevity over the last 123 years.

Each time I pick up a vintage news clipping read something like “ Louis and Clarence were rubbing down teams of horses for the first delivery wagons”, i’m reminded of how much things have changed at Fitterer’s since the beginning. And though change is inevitable, the best part of looking at the store throughout history is the notion that the best practices of the business remain unchanged.

Brad told the Daily Record in 1983, “ We’re committed to this valley and to Ellensburg; we’re here to stay and we’ll continue to grow with the area, and we have a confidence it will.”

Its sentiments like those that leave no question about the intentions and the integrity of this family and this company, and that makes working here even more enjoyable.

The surrey rides and cookies are pretty fun, too.

The last time we shared a few design tips, there was snow of the ground and we were dreaming of sunnier skies! March had us ready to bring Spring inside early, while the Winter followed its own plans and lingered for what seemed like an eternity.

Now that April has arrived with some warmer temperatures, sunny skies and the infamous Kittitas Valley wind, we’re sharing some great ways to embrace the Spring season with fresh elements and beautiful colors.

Sustainability

When I think about Spring, my mind immediately gravitates to thoughts of starting fresh, plants transforming back to life, and Trending in 2019, sustainability and re purposed products are at the forefront of many department store displays and remain a hot topic in design blogs across the web. Even those who don’t consider themselves “trend followers” when it comes to their décor or furniture options might be able to get on board with this one. Whether you opt for a re-purposed coffee table or a bedroom set made from reclaimed wood; pieces that are given second chances at life add some character, charm and are a great conversation starters at your Spring bbqs or brunches.

Beach Vibes

Dreaming of fresh ocean air, a sandy coastline and brilliant blue skies? Consider nautical striped looks that can take your mind to the beach without having to leave your living room. A slightly retro look in nature, a nautical beachy fabric made with different textures and patterns can be the perfect way to add some coastal spring vibes to your space!

Different strokes

It’s no secret that paint is a great way to change a space without breaking the bank or making a long term investment. Paint can be updated or added to with ease, and the prefect color or pattern can instantly lift a mood or change how we feel in a room. Spring is a great season to freshen your interior with a splash of color, exciting new pattern or even experiment with a bold wallpaper.

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For a great tutorial on painting patterned walls visit this link to HGTV Life Styled

When it comes to color and paint, there are many options for making a Spring statement, and if bright just isn’t your style, they don’t have to include yellow ceilings or bold walls!

Neutral colors like creams and whites pair well with bright accents. An orange or yellow chair, throw or poof can bring a sunny vibe without being over the top. A vibrant green picture frame or contrasting trim may bring just enough forest or the tropical feelings to the room without overwhelming.

Bring it in

Though we’ve talked about natural elements in home furnishings before, spring is an excellent time to try something earthy and new. For many of us, nothing feels better than the fresh air at the top of our hiking trail or looks more beautiful than the curves of a knotted pine tree. A live edge table or bedroom set may be just what you need to bring that feeling of crisp air indoors.

Dreaming of lake lounging? Pair a natural accent with a deep blue wall or sofa, and imagine yourself lakeside all year long.

Even upholstered pieces featuring foliage based prints are great small additions to your spring centered design.

If you follow us on social media, you might have tuned in to our Q&As with Brad, or come across one of our design-focused blog pieces. We’ve certainly been busy on social media, as the digital world and new technology keep up their tremendous growth. That being said, it has been some time since I’ve taken a moment to share a little bit of the past with you.

This week I wanted to find another great throwback to remind us all that technology, though different way back when, is often equally impressive.

It’s so easy to forget that calculations and prices didn’t always come from the web, even more so for those of us who grew up in the age of the internet. There were no manufacturer backroom web addresses to type in to the search bar when Mrs. Davis wanted a price for fabric to make pillows from in 1962.

With that in mind, I felt this vintage slider was the perfect piece of the past to share this week. Something so simple, yet so useful to answer the questions we rely on a machine to give us today that may otherwise be forgotten in the bottom of a cabinet.

The sliding cardboard tool by The Phil Youdene Co.  features Boltaflex branding ( Boltaflex being a brand Fitterer’s worked with in the past, that makes a vinyl type upholstery material.) allows the user to determine the total price of yardage for a customer’s upholstery project or determine how many yards of material would be needed based on the piece. The font and graphics on this tool just scream vintage 60’s to me.

It’s pretty amazing that this handy little tool is in such great condition, given its 50+ years in the store. Though we no longer rely on it for answers, it’s a great addition to our cabinet of memories and a good reminder that while technology grows at a rapid pace, the world did function without the internet, Ipads or smartphones!

To take a look at this 60’s throwback, or anything else in the cabinet of Fitterer’s history, be sure to stop by and see us. As an added bonus – we’ll have savings on everything in the store this weekend! So whether you just want to say hello, take a look at some great antique memories or take advantage of a great price on a new sofa, we’ll be here ready to help!