Today we’d like to introduce you to Amory Booker.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
January of 2004, our founder was working abroad and noticed products and items that were he had not seen or not available to purchase in the United States. During his travels he noticed that the items he saw were great brands in Europe but rarely seen in the United States. He visited places in Portugal, Germany and Italy and then reached out to several suppliers in hopes of bringing their products to the United States. The initial suppliers were (Jenar Glas) now Trendglas-Jena, Germany; Legnoart, Italy and Cutipol, Portugal, all who we still have relationships today. The web store was the next thing to get up and running along with coming up with a company name, and after careful thought and bouncing ideas with friends the name A.K.A Dwelling was selected. The AKA – (Also Known As) Our online store has been up since 2005 – akadweling.com
What started online in 2005 with the initial 3 brands continues to grow with more brands and more products from around the world. Our mission at AKA Dwelling is not to carry a million products, just great ones, that are from great designers and represent great design. We always look for products that would be good for your dwelling that encompass great design, and to provide our customers with a great customer experience.
We are committed to bring great products to the United States, from Europe, South America, etc, with the recent addition of Zieher – Vision Wine glasses series and soon to bring more vendors from Italy, our business continues to expand as well as our product offering.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
There are always challenges when working with companies from abroad that don’t have a U.S. presence. Getting product over to the U.S., customs clearance, etc. Also, some suppliers don’t have products that work in the U.S. (electric) as well as, as companies who just don’t want to sell their products in the United States.
Everyday we have website challenges being concerned about customer experience and keeping the website up and running, everyday is a new challenge but fun. Lastly, the education of customer on products as well as the explanation that there is no such thing as “Free” shipping.
Being a small company allows us to adapt and make changes quickly, every order and mistake is a learning experience. The art and importance of customer service is very important to our business.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with AKA Dwelling – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
AKA Dwelling sells home decor products for your home. We focus on international brands with luxury and style. These items include decor items for living areas, Kitchenware – plates, glasses and wine items being the biggest sellers.
So, what’s next? Any big plans?
We are currently only selling our products online at akadwelling.com with plans to expand to a brick and mortar store in Dallas area in the next few years. Plans are also in place to start an online magazine to provide information and insight into the products and great things that are happening in the home decor and design areas.
Internationalization is also on the horizon with customers now in Hong Kong, Italy, Turkey, France – AKA Dwelling will continue to provide a high standard of customer service and great product selections.
Contact Info:
- Address: 4500 JD Mouser Parkway,
Alvarado, Texas 76009 - Website: akadwelling.com
- Phone: 877-388-7245
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/akadwelling/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AKADwelling/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/hashtag/akadwelling
- Other: https://plus.google.com/+Akadwelling
Image Credit:
Trendglas-Jena
Legnoart
Anne Black,
Zieher
Getting in touch: VoyageDallas is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
