Saturday, October 23, 2010

THIS IS CAYA





Last night we attended the launch party for Caya. Caya is a new retail store concept created by Telus that celebrates individuality and diversity by supporting the local LGBTQA community. Robert was selected months ago to be part of a team of advisors that helped shape the Caya concept (hence his picture on the wall). The store is located at the corner of Davie and Howe street and is impressive space to behold. We were then whisked away to another location for a private dinner in the company of Telus President and CEO, Darren Entwistle. The evening was hosted by Kenn Hamlin who was instrumental in Caya's birth. Thank you Kenn for a fantastic evening, it was great to be a part of it. Check out their website for more details.

Wednesday, October 20, 2010

NEW PRODUCTS FROM ROOST



Provide has just received our new delivery from Roost. In this delivery are some classic pieces that have proven to be very popular staples like the thorn pillar candler holders, horn boxes and bowls – but also some new accessories like this mouth blown glass vase. It has a graphic yet refined look and a very affordable price. Have a look at our site for more details.

Friday, October 15, 2010

OPENING NIGHT AT IDS WEST 2010







Last night we attended the opening event for IDS West at the new Vancouver Convention Centre. The new location is the perfect backdrop and really elevates this event to something on par with Toronto or New York. The exhibitors all did an impressive job with their presentations – the overall effect was stylish and very sophisticated.

Some of the great designers showcasing their work also have their product available at Provide, including Christian Woo, Martha Sturdy, John Ross Designs, MTH Woodworks and Catherine Regehr who collaborated with Brent Comber. It was great to see some new designs from them and we hope to have them in our store soon.

It was also and opportunity for us to talk and reconnect with people in the industry that we don't normally see. For instance, we stopped in at the Cross's booth and where blown away by their creativity, warmth and good humour. Great job guys!

Tuesday, October 12, 2010

MANY OF PROVIDE'S LOCAL SUPPLIERS WILL BE AT IDS WEST



IDS West begins this week (October 14th – 17th at the Vancouver Convention Centre) and many of Provide's local suppliers will be showcasing their work including Martha Sturdy (above), Christian Woo, John Ross Designs and MTH Woodworks. In addition, there will be some great friends of Provide exhibiting, including Brent Comber, Fluff, Good Space and False Creek Design Group just to name a few. We will be attending the opening party and will post some of our thoughts this coming friday.

Saturday, October 9, 2010

A VISIT TO PEKING LOUNGE





I just payed a visit to one of Vancouver's most unique retail destinations – Peking Lounge. Owned by Daniel Poulin and Michael Bennet, the store contains a great mix of classic Chinese antiques and Asian inspired contemporary design. The two have a great eye for buying as well as creative presentation – I loved the beautiful over-sized mugs (pictured above). Peking Lounge is located in historic Chinatown (just around the corner from Provide) on East Pender Street. The street is going through an amazing change with a new cafe, hair salon and Bob Rennie's gallery all right in a row. We will have to drop by more often.

Wednesday, October 6, 2010

A NEW TABLE DESIGN FROM MTH WOODWORKS




MTH WOODWORKS have expanded their Bloom collection with the creation of this new coffee table. Salvaged from Vancouver Island, this massive tree base has found a second life as functional art. The top is cast in solid resin made from Peanuts and soybeans and is fused with the wood trunk to create a seamless surface revealing the beauty of the natural wood. This table measures 44 inches (polar triangle), for custom sizes and colours please enquire at 604.632.0095.


Saturday, October 2, 2010

BRASS BOTTLE OPENERS DESIGNED BY OJI MASANORI



Saikai from Japan is now offering brass bottle openers designed by Oji Masanori. These beautifuly hand-crafted objects make the simple task of opening a bottle elegant. Provide is stocking the Crescent (left) and Frame (top) and think they are a fresh idea for gift giving.