Monday, December 15, 2008

Last collage mannequin goes to new home


Chalkboards have been strong sellers this year


Great details and frosted finish make dresser special



December Grayslake Last Show of Season

Windy, mild weather greeted shoppers at the December Grayslake, rhubarb reign's last show of the 2008 season. And what a remarkable year it has been. We wanted to take a minute to thank each of you -- our wonderful customers -- for making that possible. It is sincerely appreciated! A special thank you goes out to Lynda Boyd, who drives an hour each way every month to help us set up. She started doing that when Joe's back was out and had never quit! What a blessing.

That being said -- what a great show! Christmas items continued to be strong sellers, which is unusual for us this late in the year. We noticed that this was true for many of the vendors around us, too. We generally don't restock after November, but the interest has remained strong right on through this year. Wondering if this is due to such a late Thanksgiving? Furniture was a hit, especially our new "sugar-frosted" finish pieces. Custom chalkboards sold out, as did many of the handmade items. This is always especially affirming to me. Containers did well, as did framed pieces. We also sold several of our friend Carol Ringle's great vintage coats -- the ladies trying them on were having so much fun!

Monday, December 8, 2008

Collage Mannequins in the Making


Our collage mannequins have been a big hit this season. Here's last week's group after their first coat of paper. Come see them in their finished state at this week's show!

Getting show ready


On to Grayslake -- Sunday, December 14

Thanks to all who braved the wintry weather to visit us at Kane County! Bestsellers were vintage and handmade Christmas items, buffets and dressers, and smalls in all categories as shoppers searched for the perfect gift. Got to love vintage for Christmas! Now we are off to Grayslake -- this Sunday, early buy 6 to 8 a.m., regular hours, 8 to 3 -- at the beautiful new Lake County Fairgrounds. Come and see us for our last Chicago show of the season!

Monday, December 1, 2008

We are taking the plunge -- adding an online component to rhubarb reign. The goal of this blog is to provide our customers with information on our latest finds, in addition to news about upcoming shows and special events. We are excited about the possibilities! Thanks for visiting. Come see us at Kane this weekend. xo -- Sandy and Joe

Welcome to rhubarb reign online!