True story. Lamenting over the perfect bookcase kept me up at night. That is until I ordered a bookcase from Via Logistics and saved myself the time and gas money and had the item delivered to my home and assembled—all for a very reasonable price. The company provides the greater West Michigan area access to affordable, efficient delivery of IKEA products, so there’s no need to travel to the Canton or Chicago store or overpay in shipping charges. Enjoy instant gratification as deliveries are usually the next day after the shopping trip. “I bring back a little bit of everything. I order a number of sofas,” said Owner James Eldersveld, also mentioning furniture, children’s items, bedding, rugs and popular kitchen items such as towels, glasses, dinnerware and silverware. The business is a result of that excitement IKEA products incite. “I do recall every time I would go there would be some excitement around the trip. A family member or friend mentioned they wished they could go or get something for them.” Well-designed, stylish products can be yours even quicker and the charge is a percentage of the total order with assembly charges depending on the item. Pick up your goods in Grand Rapids or have them delivered to your home. “I like interior design and decorating and making a space look nice and comfortable.” Need a home décor upgrade? You need Via Logistics at viaikea.com
Don’t just buy a pair of jeans—invest in some you’ll love. That’s advice from DENYM, a premium denim shopping experience, featuring the latest in men’s and women’s clothing and accessories, located 443 Bridge St. NW in Grand Rapids, across from Monte’s and O’Tooles. “Denim is at the core of everyone’s wardrobe,” said Steve Harney, who is affiliated with the store along with his wife, owner and operator Katie Harney. “We call it the fabric of everyday life.” The cornerstone of your wardrobe is paired with everyday essentials such as chic tops, T-shirts, button-up shirts and fitted shirts. Accessories include outerwear such as zip-up hoodies, belts, wallets, sunglasses and bags. Expect personal attention to help outfit you with the best style, selection and fit among designer denim in a cool and stylish environment. Whether heading out for the weekend or just grabbing dinner, DENYM seems to fit every walk of life. Call the store at (616) 245-6644.
The fashion obsessed and book lovers. These are my people. I’m thinking both groups should check out the Grand Rapids Public Library’s Summer Reads program for the book Empty Mansions: The Mysterious Life of Huguette Clark and the Spending of a Great American Fortune by Bill Dedman and Paul Clark Newell Jr. The book chronicles the true story of reclusive heiress, Huguette Clark, who disappeared from the public in the 1920s. The book details Clark’s devastation over a lost collection of rare and stunning vintage jewelry worth millions (we’re talking tons of pearl and diamond-encrusted items and loads of Cartier). A vintage jewelry talk and appraisal with Chuck Schoenknecht and Ward Paul ties into the book and discusses different kinds of vintage jewelry and as time permits, takes a look at jewelry from guests. “If you’re interested and have pieces you don’t know about, a good place to start is at the library with books and materials,” said GRPL Marketing and Communications Manger Kristen Krueger-Corrado, who mentions those resources will be on-hand for the event. “Most of us can’t wrap our heads around having so much Cartier jewelry, but you might have a hidden treasure you don’t know about. It’s a mini Antiques Roadshow on vintage jewelry.” Bring some jewelry, be social and talk about the book with fellow guests on June 28 at the Main Library in Grand Rapids from 10 a.m. until noon.
Talking style points with Ally Bakrow, the owner of the new store Ally's Boutique, is like talking to a girl who gets it in terms of fashion and what looks good on women. Her personal style is more sophisticated, classic lines with a twist. She likes updated, but stays away from trends. When talk turns to how women are intimidated to shop, Bakrow dispenses wardrobe tips, advising that she finds each customer’s individual style. “It’s important to have a style rather than wear all different types of things. You get more bang for your buck and your pieces come together.” The boutique prides itself on service and is known for its very large selection of dresses. “I personally love dresses—feminine, fun and flirty dresses and there’s a comfort factor there. They’re easy,” Bakrow said. Look for exciting, exclusive lines of merchandise that you can’t find anyplace else in Grand Rapids, such as handbags from Michigan designer Jenna Kator. There’s even a selection of men’s items with great fitting shirts sporting decorative cuffs. The boutique offers accessories and lots of color this spring. Ally’s Boutique is located on the East Beltline in front of Waterworks Car Wash. Ring them up at (616) 717-0004.
