On this day after Thanksgiving, I'm thinking of things I'm thankful for regarding my work here at Plain and Simple:

• The ability to work for my brothers and sisters in Christ and contribute in some small way to the building up of the the body here.    
• My co-workers: our friendships, their gifts, our time together.
• An opportunity to connect with the Amish, an amazing group of people.
• A job that is close to my home and compatible with my family life.

Last Saturday's Chicago Historic Bungalow and Green Homes Expo was a great success!  For an inside view of a few of the exhibitors at the event, including Plain and Simple, check out this video produced by blogger Erik Stonikas of YoChicago.com.

Bungalow Expo action

     For anyone interested in Chicago history, architecture, home decorating and interior design, mortgage management tips, or eco-friendly living, come to the Bungalow and green home expo this Saturday at the Merchandise Mart! More info here.

For those of us who live relatively urban lives, the following video may be of interest. I think it is relevant to our store because we are concerned with well designed pieces that improve the quality of life and enjoyment of the home.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1aGDWvpSXLI

 

Please comment with your thoughts!

--Josh

Its not here yet, but our staff is pretty excited about a new set of baby's room furniture that is on the way.  For the first time, we'll have a child's room set up in our downstairs showroom, complete with crib, changing table/dresser, child size table and chairs, and a comfy rocker for mama.  Speaking of mamas, owner Stephanie Vaughan is looking forward to taking some pictures of her 8 month old Seth enjoying the furniture.

President Obama is not the only one interested in supporting the economy of Elkhart County, Indiana.  For the last five years, Plain and Simple, a furniture retailer in Evanston, IL has been directly supporting that economy through its sale of hardwood furniture built exclusively by Amish producers from the region.  “We are in direct contact with over 30 families in Elkhart and LaGrange Counties” says Managing Owner Adam Vaughan.  “We are proud to carry a locally made product and support real families that need the work” he adds. 

A brief summary of the American Arts and Crafts, Mission, and Craftsman furniture movement.

This month, we are offering 15% off all of our in-stock office furniture and 10% off all special orders of office furniture, including desks, files, credenzas, bookcases and office chairs. Summer is here and vacation season is upon us. Unfortunately, work and school are always waiting for us when we return. But don't let that bother you--Plain and Simple is here to help you work and study with Simple Elegance. Order now and we'll get you your dream piece in time for the new school year. Below are some of the pieces that are on sale right now through the month of July.

A unique piece in a rich coffee finish. Perfect for gathering together your stray books and bills.

Beautiful Cherry bookcase. Sure to add Simple Elegance to any room.