Ballard Knock-0ffs From Home Decorators Collection - Is it worth it?

As I am shopping for clients, it is always important to me to find the best price. I am a hug fan of Ballard Designs and have purchased many items both for my own home and for client's homes. (I am actually hoping to be able to finish a project or two to submit to the CSI Project before the deadline passes!) I have been noticing over the last few months that there seems to be quite a lot of similarity between the Ballard Designs offering and those of Home Decorators Collection. I have been wondering if they are just low-balling Ballard, but it seems it depends on the item. Here is a comparison of a few of their product offerings.

The Le Poem rug from Ballard is offered in 4 colors and 6 sizes. In the 8 x 10 size, the price is $428.

The Poetry rug from Home Decorators is also offered in 6 sizes, but only two colors. As you can see, it is the exact same rug. Their 8 x 10 price is $389 and they are currently offering free shipping on orders over $299. We are really just talking about a $30 difference here, but the shipping can make a big difference.

Here is the Stella Mirror from Ballard. It measures 40" x 27" and is priced at $249. Here is the Gella Mirror from Home Decorators (could they have been more obvious with the name?). It is selling for $289, so this time Ballard's price is better. I am not sure why they would so obviously sell the same item, with a similar name and not offer a better price. This is the Sabrina Mirror from Home Decorators. It is available in two sizes, 35.5" x 45.5" and 28.5" x 35.75". It is available in distressed Mahogany and Ivory. The larger version is $199. This is the Ballard version and it is called the Charleston Mirror. It is available in one size, which is larger than the other version, 56" x 45.5". The finish is Black with red undertones. It was originally $399, but is now on sale for $239.99. This is kind of a wash between the two because you would make your decision on what size and finish works best for your space. These are just a few comparisons to give you an idea. In the end, I guess the lesson learned is to look at all your options. Home Decorators does offer a lot of great products at reasonable prices, so they are often my go to for items. However, I am always more partial to Ballard and they do also offer a generous and easier to use Designer discount program.

Just thought I would share some thoughts to help you in your own decorating projects.

Architectual Works of Art

There is a town near me, Port Jervis, NY, it is a quirky little town, and every little once and a while, I enjoy checking out the handful of antique shops. They are only open, sometimes, some of them even less than sometimes... Anyway, my favorite is a place called 27, and it is located, yes, you guessed it, at 27 Front Street (kind of reminds me of 21 Jump Street, which definitely gives you a good idea of my age). I stopped in there recently and took some photos of some really amazing pieces one of the owners, Gordon, has been doing. He is collaging like pieces of architectural salvage. I thought is was really beautiful and an inspiration idea... This first piece did already have a sold sign on it, but I it is so beautiful, I thought it was worth showing...

I really love how each piece has similar characteristics, but is very different in its shape and form.

I am not technically sure what this next piece is, but it is so unique and could have so many great uses if you had the space for it. Wine rack, book shelf, wine rack, display case, wine rack..so many possibilities! There are several other shops worth stopping in if you are ever in the area. They are most likely open Thursday through Sundays.