It was simply a casual stroll through a department store that inspired a business for Clarkston residents Lori Blackstone and Lori Ferrell.
Specifically, it was a display of lamps at an upscale retailer that caught Blackstone and Ferrell’s eyes.
“They were very expensive,” Blackstone said. The lamps were on sale for $375 and regularly priced at $560. “We thought it would be nice to bring a custom lamp to the market and still be affordable.”
So, Blackstone and Ferrell began creating custom lamps in January, and opened for business as Shades of Elegance.
“Custom lamps are very popular right now, especially feather lamps,” Blackstone said.
Clients can choose the fabric and color scheme of their lamp and shade as well as adorning accessories such as fringe, beads, feathers and more.
Blackstone and Ferrell, who are both mothers of four children, personally shop for the bases and fabric.
“We focus on individualizing each lamp,” Blackstone said. “We don’t order in mass quantities. We have a nice selection.”
Blackstone said it takes four hours to complete one lamp, and the work is done out of their homes.
“We take great care to create a total look,” she said.
The lamps range in price from $95 to $225, depending on custom needs.
“We’re considerably less (than upscale retailers), yet the quality of work is there as well,” Blackstone said, who has always had an interest in interior designing and decorating.
Shades of Elegance has been a successful venture so far for Blackstone and Ferrell, who are very much enjoying their new business and are excited about what the future holds.
“We look forward to working with retailers and interior decorators in Clarkston,” Blackstone said.
Some of their lamps are currently displayed at Plum Hollow Home Decor and Design Studio in Clarkston and in various area model homes.
Their work can also be seen at the Grand Blanc Arts Council’s sixth annual juried art fair, Saturday, July 26 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, July 27 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Blackstone and Ferrell are two of more than 60 artists participating, and will feature 21 lamps at the fair.
Other Clarkston residents showcasing their work include Charise Bundesen with paintings in watercolors and acrylics as well as unique framed mirrors and more; and Debbie Dirker, with beaded jewelry and accessories like frames as well as decoupage plates and platters.
The art fair, which runs in conjunction with the Grand Blanc Festival, will be held on the grounds of Grand Blanc High School at Saginaw and Holly roads. Admission is free. Art items for sale will include paintings, photography, pottery, indoor and lawn sculptures, glass, fibers and jewelry. Best of Show will be awarded and attendees may vote for People’s Choice. There will be live music both days from noon to 3 p.m. Food vendors, children’s activities and baybsitters will be available. Call (810) 695-8933 for details.
To order your custom lamp from Shades of Elegance, call (248) 393-6715.