Today we’d like to introduce you to Gregory Barker.
Gregory, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
My story is pretty organic. I knew it would end up in some area of design, but wasn’t sure where. Originally my plan was to design amusement park rides, I was obsessed as a kid. Later my focus shifted to Architecture and drafting. I dabbled in fashion design.
I think what led me to where I am now was when I worked at an antique store in Dallas. My bosses would go to Europe 4 times a year and bring back some of the most interesting things. There were people on site to rehab these pieces back to near perfection.
I would watch and learn. On the weekends I would scour antique shops and flea market for interesting and unusual pieces to restore. I started selling my wares on the weekend. People would began asking me to placement ideas in their homes, which led to me staging vignettes in a room, to full on decoration. Along the way I had built quite a collection of furniture and curiosities. I had out grown my storage, which led to me opening a storefront.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
There are always struggles and challenges you will face, especially in business. One of the main obstacles is the amount of work that is involved when starting a new business. Also, making sure you maintain a level of service to your customers.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Patina Bleu Interiors – what should we know?
One of the main things I am proud of is my uniqueness. I strive to come up with things that are conversation pieces. Whether it’s making an art piece out cardboard, to making a dining table out of a salvaged door to making chairs out of packing crates. I want you to think, wow! That’s different. I can’t really say I specialize in one particular thing because I have so many different interests, and merchandise I carry.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
Of course I have had all of those people. One of the main people who has been instrumental in my success is my business partner. He is very low key and would cringe if I gave his name. He is the business side, I am the creative. He is smart and makes sound decisions. He is older so he has more wisdom. My family has been great, big cheerleaders as well as friends and strangers. Collectively or individually, all these people I speak of has helped me tremendously, whether it’s just giving me advice, being a sounding board, or just there to show support. They have all played a roll.
Contact Info:
- Address: 833 W 7th st Dallas, Tx 75208
- Website: PatinaBleu.net
- Phone: 214-927-9353
- Email: patinableudesign@gmail.com
- Instagram: Patinableuinteriors
- Facebook: Patinableu
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