Bering's at Home

Hardware Options Simplified!

Posted on May 22, 2013 by admin

While Bering’s Hardware is indeed a hardware store, if you have ever spent time looking at the hardware you might find that you are either instantly drawn to a brand or style or else confused by all of the options. Either scenario is understandable! Let’s take a look at some of the hardware lines we carry and share a bit about them. Hopefully you will find that your next venture out to select hardware is somewhat clearer knowing more about your many options!

From Baldwin to Rocky Mountain to Ashley Norton to EMTEK and Nostalgic Warehouse, Inc. and more, just trying to remember all of the great manufacturers of hardware is daunting in itself. The average homeowner, as well as builder, is more concerned about achieving the look they like at a price that is agreeable to their budget. We get it, which is why we carry such an extensive line of hardware.

Once you are in the market for hardware be it a new home or something as small as a replacement knob, going to one store with a knowledgeable staff is extremely helpful. It is good to start by either coming in with a picture of what you are looking for (if you don’t already know the brand) or to take a stroll and see what catches your eye. From there you are so close!

Hardware is like shoes, you will most likely always pay a premium for a quality pair that is made to last – yet you are guaranteed to find “the look” of a high end pair for a lot less depending on the overall quality. In short, achieving the look is never a problem or issue. Some of our top hardware lines in quality and craftsmanship are Baldwin, Rocky Mountain, Ashley Norton and EMTEK.

Let’s get started with Baldwin, and what better way to jump right in than to take a quick high level view of the evolution of a Baldwin door knob. It makes you appreciate the craftsmanship a lot more seeing it from end-to-end!

Here are some gorgeous Baldwin knobs.

As you can see there is a finish and style that is sure to work for every style and taste! Baldwin is literally as solid as they come and made in America.

Rocky Mountain Hardware is another luxurious line of hardware that is as gorgeous as it is durable. Rocky Mountain Hardware began as a family owned distributor and showroom for other manufacturers’ architectural hardware. Over time they began to notice a gap in the market, both in terms of style and the quality of the hardware’s operation.

That was the beginning of custom bronze work by Rocky Mountain Hardware. Whenever a need arose on a project for a particular type of hardware that just couldn’t be found, the company created it. This grew into the realization that there was a market for a new line of hardware: a simple, handcrafted look that would work equally as well in a rustic log home, a Mediterranean-style villa, a French country house, or a more contemporary-style project.

Here are some of our favorite hardware pieces by Rocky Mountain:

“Getting a handle on it” takes on a whole new meaning when you look at this beautiful picture.

As if the wine cellar pictured below isn’t great in itself, these handles that have the look of door knocks, are regal and do the trick of drawing you in!
This Rocky Mountain pull is perfectly placed on this shower door.

Moving onto another line we love, Ashley Norton hardware! Established in 1987, Ashley Norton has grown to become one of the leading designers and manufacturers of architectural hardware. With both solid brass and solid bronze manufacturing capabilities, their products range amongst the most diverse in the high end architectural hardware in the industry.

We think you’ll agree that Ashley Norton’s patina & beautiful finishes, paired with the fine lines and curves amount to hardware that is hard to match aesthetically.

We have to mention EMTEK hardware!! While EMTEK is amazingly gorgeous, it is a bit more budget friendly. As mentioned earlier in this post, finding the look you like isn’t a problem at Bering’s Hardware; we have the look and price point to match every customer’s needs. Here are some beautiful EMTEK pieces!

We hope you’ll consider us the next time you have a project, big or small. Contractors visit us regularly and we are always happy to help. Given the opportunity to assist you, we think you’ll be amazed at how great your home looks with equally beautiful hardware. It is the details, details, details that make a home feel and look like a home. …Just remember, finding the perfect hardware really is simple – we can help!

A Modern Day General Store & So Much More!

Posted on May 14, 2013 by admin

Founder August C. Bering III (1913 – 2004) pictured on far left in front of Bering Lumber Co. in 1954.

Once upon a time, there was a hardware store / lumber yard that in 73 years, evolved into a purveyor of candy, gourmet foods, housewares, fine gifts, stationery and much more. The store no longer sells lumber, but it still carries nuts, bolts and screws – by the hundreds!

Steve Helmer, Westheimer location Store Manager

So if you need a kitchen gadget, Godiva Chocolates, fine dinnerware, dog & cat food, candles, batteries, paint, etc., etc., Bering’s Hardware is the place to shop. Known nationally for an eclectic mix of quality products, and customer oriented and professional service, friendly help is part of each experience.

We carry products ranging from A to Z… There’s something for every taste and style. You can find what you’re looking for – as well as things you didn’t know you needed but can’t live without! From pets to people, there are products for all. From bathroom products to furniture, big and small; stationery and gifts; to baby clothes and travel; and cleaning to restorative – yes we truly have it all. It is safe to say Bering’s has “things” galore and a whole lot more!

With all of this said, let’s take a review of all things Gourmet at Bering’s Hardware! …For starters, who’s counting?! (…Calories that it is!)

Bering’s has a gourmet foods section that is second to none. There are so many choices to make, all of which will dance on your taste buds. …Such as that perennial favorite – and a Texas tradition – Lamme’s Texas Chewies. …Guaranteed to wrap around your sweet tooth.

You can’t lick our flavorful lollipops, but you should! They are sure to take you back to your favorite childhood memories, and the good news is age verification is not required. Now for the discerning palette, Godiva’s Chocolates are legendary. They’re slightly sinful but taste heavenly.

There’s an array of gourmet popcorn and nuts for movie watching or merely munching. If you are in the market for something even sweeter, but with the same preparation ease, then might we suggest cobbler in a jar? Oh my… What a pie!!

If you aren’t already starving, then in closing we have to add that we carry salsas that make you want to say “Ole!”

Make your life easy and take care of all the items on your list at one place!!! Bering’s Hardware, “How can we help you?!”

Posted in Baby and Kids, Bering's Home, Bridal, Cabinet Hardware, Entertaining, Gifts and Collectibles, Gourmet Fare, Hardware Store, Pets, Sauces and Seasonings, Stationery, Tabletop | Leave a comment

Bering’s Stationers are Wedding Wording Pros!

Posted on May 7, 2013 by admin

Are you overwhelmed from planning a wedding or a large social event, particularly when it comes to small details like the invitation’s wording? Nancy Harper and Danny Seibert, two of the helpful stationers at our Bissonnet location, recently discussed how many customers appreciate the skill and knowledge of etiquette Bering’s stationers offer when helping to compose a grammatically-correct and socially-appropriate invitation. “It can be easy to make some common mistakes since the meaning of many phrases changes over time and the origins of social traditions are sometimes lost,” Danny said. Here are some of the most common wedding invitation wording mistakes Nancy and Danny have seen and their suggestions to correct them:

Honor /Celebrate – One invitation wording mistake is the incorrect usage of “honor” versus “celebrate.” “By definition, a person is honored and an event is celebrated,” Nancy explains. Examples of the difference in wording are “Please join us for a Birthday Luncheon honoring Janice Allen” and “You are invited to a Luncheon celebrating Janice Allen’s 50^th Birthday.”

“Pleasure of Your Company”/”Honour of Your Presence” – Historically, if a wedding ceremony is held in a religious venue (church, synagogue, mosque, etc.), the phrase “honour of your presence” is appropriate. If a wedding ceremony is held in a non-religious or secular venue (hotel, private residence, outdoors, etc.), the phrase “pleasure of your company” is used, regardless of whether the service was officiated by a member of the clergy. “However, it’s not uncommon for this rule to be trumped by many brides (or mothers-of-the bride) who prefer for their invitation to maintain the more traditional wording despite the wedding’s location,” Danny said. Also, the American spelling of honor is often substituted for the more traditional spelling, honour.

Spelling out numbers – The most formal style of wording spells out the dates and times instead of using numerals. Be consistent throughout: if the date and year are spelled out, the time should be also. However, one exception to this is rule is the address street number. “We are asked all the time if the zip code needs to go on an invitation,” Nancy stated. “Customers are worried their guests are not going to be able to find the venue without it.”

“Technology continues to improve and a zip code is no longer necessary for Mapquest, Google maps and most GPS devices,” Danny added.

Afternoon/Evening – Another area that often needs clarification when spelling out a specific time of day is what is considered to be afternoon versus evening. Grammatically speaking, morning is the time between dawn and noon, afternoon is the time between noon and six o’clock, and evening is any p.m. hour six o’clock and thereafter.

“Another point to consider is that these two words (afternoon or evening) may seem like a minor detail, but they actually convey a lot of information to your guests,” Danny explained.

“The time of day listed on an invitation tells your guests what to wear,” Nancy added. In the U.S., unless otherwise stated, an event after seven o’clock in the evening is black tie formal and events earlier in the day are less formal.

Half Past/Half After the Hour – “Customers are often surprised to learn that to say ‘half past the hour’ implies the 30 minutes BEFORE the current hour,” noted to Danny, “since ‘past’ suggests that the time has already elapsed.” The correct wording for a time that is at the bottom of the hour is “half AFTER.” For example, 5:30 p.m. would be written as “half after five in the afternoon.” This is one of the phrases that has changed its meaning over time and requires clarification. “I regularly refer to The Wedding Blue Book by Crane & Co. or Emily Post’s Etiquette: Manners for a New World when there is any question about wording etiquette,” Nancy stated.

“Please R.s.v.p.” – Most invitations include some sort of request for guests to reply, or R.s.v.p. The term is an abbreviation for Répondez, s’il vous plaît, which means, “Respond, please” in French. “It is never correct to use ‘Please R.s.v.p.’ because that means ‘Please respond please.’” Danny points out.

“In case you’re not 100% comfortable with using “R.s.v.p.,” other wording options are “Please reply,” “Kindly reply,” or “The favour of a reply is requested,” added Nancy.

We’ve devoted an entire blog to this topic as well as other points on selecting the best wording for an R.s.v.p. Follow the link here.

At Bering’s Stationery, all of our associates work as team to provide outstanding, professional service to our customers. Come in today to either location and let one of our expert stationers help you craft your outstanding invitation!

Posted in Anniversaries, Baby and Kids, Bridal, Entertaining, Entertaining, Gifts and Collectibles, Registry, Stationery, Tabletop | Leave a comment

Unlikely Fine China Couplings

Posted on May 2, 2013 by admin

After doing a quick Google search for mixing and matching fine china patterns you might say the query isn’t exactly inspiring. While the search does produce some results, it seems there is more that can be added! Throughout the history of this blog, we’ve sung the praises of mixing-and-matching your fine china. Fine china might be thought of as “proper” and even a bit “stuffy” but that doesn’t mean either of these adjectives have to be the end result once placed on your own dining table for friends and family.

After all, how is a person to decide or pick one pretty pattern, when there are so many wonderful options?! With all of that said, we are in no way saying sticking to a place setting with all one pattern is a bad option – not at all! In fact, a complete 5-piece place setting is an excellent foundation if that is where you currently are in the fine china world. Having an entire setting is as timeless as fine china itself. We simply feel that should you not have an entire set already, or perhaps you do but are bored with it – mixing it with other patterns is wonderful! Whatever the scenario might be, hopefully you’ll get a zip of inspiration from this blog post and pull out your china lovelies and treat your friends and / or family to a special meal!

So let’s get started with an oh-so elegant place setting by Bernardaud, Arte Italica, Baccarat, and Sferra. Can you guess which piece is by each manufacturer? The bread as well as the salad plate is by Bernardaud and the pattern is Capucine. The dinner plate is Bernardaud as well, and the pattern is Elysee. The amazingly gorgeous charger is by Arte Italica and the pattern is Vietro Gold. And just when you can’t possibly achieve a finer place setting, the setting is framed out with exquisite wine glasses by Baccarat! The pattern is Arcade – lovely!!! Last but not least, you will notice a common thread among all of these images, and that is the placemat! Don’t you just love the classic appeal of Sferra’s hemstitch placemats???!!!

Let’s all take a moment to stare at the beauty below. (Pause) …Okay! Yes, we thought you’d need to catch your breath. No other pattern says, “Classic” quite as well as Mattahedeh’s Tobacco Leaf pattern. Since the pattern is so lively and vibrant, we opted to only pull the teacup and saucer and the salad plate to serve as the focal pieces. The dinner plate is equally as lovely and it is by Mottahedeh as well, the pattern is Golden Solitude. We stand by our position on bone china – white is always done right! Pair it with any pattern and you have a setting that is sure to dazzle! Grounding out the place setting is the opulent Gold Lace service plate, again by Mottahedeh. Now if you shift your eyes a bit to the right you are sure to fall in love at first sight with William Yeoward’s incredible handcrafted Elizabeth wine glasses!! You really have to hold these fine stems in your hand to truly take in all of the intricate etching – spectacular in every sense of the word!

For those of you who aren’t familiar with Royal Crown Derby, you are in for a treat!!! Their Aves Gold pattern is beyond regal with its 22ct gold charm. You might even be tempted to eat less so that you don’t obstruct your view of the pattern! It pairs wonderfully with Herend’s Fish Scale Green Charger and Baccarat Massena wine glasses – divine!!

We thought we’d display a softer more balanced option by placing Herend’s Golden Edged Salad plate on top of the Herend Fish Scale Green Charger an alternative. It is a bit more subtle, but just as rich and sophisticated!!

We save a special treat for the end! Every pattern Juliska makes flies off our shelves as it is a bridal registry favorite! Deciding on only one pattern of theirs was a bit hard, but we think you’ll agree that Juliska’s Country Estate pattern is as cozy as it is appetizingly beautiful!! We love so much about this dishwasher safe pattern. Yes, you heard us right – the pattern is dishwasher safe!! No wonder why so many new brides love this manufacturer!!! The pattern also lends itself to making lovely décor for hanging the plates on your wall. We could truly go on and on about this pattern, but we need to savor that delicately wonderful charger the dinner and salad plate is setting on – Annie Glass’ Platinum Ruffle Charger!! “Hello Beautiful” is really all we have to say about it. Well, actually – beauty is not all this charger offers, it too is dishwasher safe! Alas, we move to the side and admire those gorgeous Juliska Isabella Tulip patterned glasses. They are darling and look great for casual or formal settings.

If you still aren’t convinced that it is not only okay to mix-and-match your fine china, then perhaps you should take a stroll through either of Bering’s gift shops (or online – www.berings.com)! Infusing your personal style applies throughout life, and it certainly includes your tabletop!!

We wish you a beautiful tablescape with loads of personal touches with good friends and family.

Posted in Bering's Home, Bridal, Bridal Registry, Corporate Gifts, Drinkware, Entertaining, Entertaining, Fine China, Gifts & Collectibles, Gifts and Collectibles, Registry, Special Gifts, Table Linens, Tabletop | 2 Comments

A Note of Thanks!

Posted on April 29, 2013 by admin

Our loyal customers are what have kept us successful for over 70 years and we are very appreciative! As many of you know Professional Administrative Day was last week, April 24^th. We are excited to share the ‘thank you’ note that was sent to one of our customers by their amazing professional administrative staff after receiving a gift card to Bering’s Hardware.

Here is the note:

What can you buy at a “hardware” store?….

The Bering’s Way. A family tradition, a Texas institution. Among Houston’s most respected traditions, Bering’s represents one of the most unique retail concepts anywhere. For generations, this one-of-a-kind treasure house has offered an incredible array of quality hardware items for the home, upscale gifts including china, crystal, chocolates and stationery as well as everything for the kitchen and yard. An excellent place to find gifts for everyone on your list, Bering’s offers the kind of old-fashioned service that seems near extinction.

Super Chic “flip flops” for my Pedicures

Acrylic “smoothie” cups for my Daily Protein Smoothies

Lively and whimsical “pasta/salad” bowls

Elegant super sharp Steak Knives

THANK YOU Ken and Webb for my Professional Administrative Day gift card…it is appreciated!

…And thank you, Gretchen, for allowing us to share your very thoughtful ‘thank you’ note!

- Bering’s Hardware

Posted in Bath and Candles, Bering's Home, Cooking, Entertaining, Gifts and Collectibles, Home Decor, Kitchen, Tabletop | Leave a comment

A Paper Doll Fete!

Posted on April 23, 2013 by admin

We all know that sugar and spice and everything nice are what little girls are made of. As far as what they have the most fun doing, well each little girl is perfectly unique BUT playing with dolls seems to be pretty universal! From lifelike baby dolls to paper dolls, all are loved. This was especially the case for one of our young Bering’s customers, little Bridget! She and her mother orchestrated a beautifully sweet Paper Doll themed 4^th birthday party for moms and daughters. Fun, fun, fun!

To get the wheels moving for the party, our stationery team was tasked with creating customized birthday invitations. If you are at all familiar with our fine stationery department, then you are probably familiar with some of the amazing stationery offerings we provide. (Even working next to the two stationery geniuses at the Westheimer location, I was blown away at how creatively adorable the paper doll themed party invitations turned out! They never fail to amaze me!) If you aren’t familiar with our extensive line of fine stationery, paper goods and more then we are even more excited about you reading this blog post!

We will share some truly special pictures from little Bridget’s Big 4^TH Paper Doll Birthday Party that will hopefully inspire you to think outside the box the next time you have a party to plan! …And I am guessing copying the paper doll theme will be “a-ok” if you are as blown away with it as we are!

Here is the adorable invitation! You’ll notice that the little girl bears a striking resemblance to the birthday girl, cutie Bridget!

As if the front of the card isn’t too much to take in, it gets even better! Check out the inside!!! It is refreshing to see that paper dolls are still cool! …Hmmm, now to decide on which outfit to dress the doll in first???

Adding to the theme and the invitation, each guest received a customized paper doll with their names on them. This is one party I would have been super bummed to miss if I was four! It really doesn’t get any sweeter!

While our stationery team created the out of this world cute invitation, the entire process was a wonderful collaboration by Bering’s stationers as well as the paper doll artist and creator Lily & Thistle! Their site is what you would guess it to be called – Mini Me Paper Dolls! http://www.minimepaperdolls.com/ And let’s be honest, it is pretty cool to have a paper doll customized to look like the little girl(s) in your life. Each paper doll was customized with the little girl’s hair color, style, eye color and skin tone!! Too cute!

Artistic fun was not limited to the stationery team and paper doll creator – no no! As part of the party activities, each little girl was able to exert her own artistic flare by coloring the outfits. A cute little “All about me” paper was also part of the fun!

And just when you thought the well planned party had peaked with creative cuteness, it continues to get better!!! Yes, we thought you’d agree! Check out these custom made boxes Bridget’s mother created for each of the guests to put their dolls in! The letter on the boxes corresponds with the little one’s first names. Lovely and so special!!

Here are some of the super adorable details and décor:

Umm, yes please! Strawberry banana milk plus sprinkles and a pink swirly straw, well who could resist?!

Adding to the doll theme, don’t you love the festive cake décor?! While this one might not be edible, SWEET Bakery, in Houston, TX, made some to-die-for tasty and equally beautiful cupcakes, mini cakes and macaroons for the big day! An added perk to Sweet Bakery is that all of their ingredients are organic and locally sourced whenever possible. Scroll down to see some of their yummy creations!!

Yum, again – yes please! …Cute as a cupcake.

Keeping with the “other/unofficial” party theme of “it gets better and better” – we are pretty sure cake bar standards were raised with the mini cakes featured below. And we all know it is what is inside that counts –they are strawberry with vanilla frosting! Delish!

Now what kind of 4^th birthday party would it have been without some pink sprinkled white chocolate covered strawberries?! Divine!

Good thing little girls are made of sugar, because there is more!

So many cupcake options, how is a little girl to pick one?! These mini cupcakes range in flavor from lemon, blueberry, chocolate and strawberry!

The tablescape is truly beautiful! We love the personalization.

One more view…

Another party detail we definitely want to point out is the use of fine linens mixed with pretty Caspari paper goods! It is a great option to consider.

Voila! We saved the best part for last! Here is the birthday girl with her “Mini Me” paper doll, Bridget. We are willing to bet that this adorable smile was shared by the rest of Bridget’s friends at the party.

*Last but not least, we want to be sure and thank Debby Posso for such lovely photography!!

We hope you will visit Bering’s for all your stationery needs. We look forward to helping you express your creative vision!

Posted in Baby and Kids, Entertaining, Entertaining, Gifts and Collectibles, Home Decor, Stationery, Table Linens, Tabletop | Tagged Bering's Stationery Department, Caspari | Leave a comment

Mother’s Day 2013!!

Posted on April 11, 2013 by admin

Quality time, helping around the house, a handmade card – these are all perfect Mother’s Day gifts! While a purchased gift is only a material way of letting your mother know how much you appreciate her; the thought behind the gift is priceless. While a heartfelt gift is always perfect, we have some sweet options for those in need of some suggestions!

Before we begin sharing our a list of gift ideas, here is a bit of trivia! President Woodrow Wilson made Mother’s Day an official holiday in 1914. Needless to say, there should not have to be a declared holiday to let your mother know you care about and appreciate her; however, at least one day a year we should all tip our hats a bit further to the women who made us and helped shape who we are today.

Here are some truly special options for your mother or wife on Mother’s Day!

Number one might not be what you would consider memorable, or perhaps even thoughtful. However, a heartfelt card or handwritten note to your mother definitely is! A Bering’s Gift Card is what we believe your mother will consider as the icing on the cake! Click here for a Bering’s gift card.

We all know the saying, “A picture is worth a thousand words.” We just happen to agree with the saying and love the idea of celebrating Mother’s Day by giving your mother a framed picture of a special time together. Pictures are like songs, they can take you back to a moment in time- and that makes a memorable gift! Here are some of our favorite frames.

Moving on to another one of our favorite items to celebrate Mom this Mother’s Day, we just love all things Herend. Just like no two mothers are alike, no two Herend figurines are alike- as they are hand painted and truly special little pieces of art. While we have some beautiful options online, there are even more to choose from at either of our two locations. Here is a link to some Herend pieces & other adorable figurines to help get you started.

While Herend figures are amazing, so are lovely Limoges pieces! Shop us at either store location for more options!

We couldn’t possibly leave off our next Mother’s Day gift pick! Bath & body soaps, lotions and cuddly robes are always a sure way to let your mother know she deserves to pamper herself and take a load off. Here are some luxurious bath & body options to choose from.

If you are guilty of ever saying, “It doesn’t taste like my mother’s…”- then odds are your mother is an amazing cook! While she might have too many recipes committed to memory to cook in a lifetime, she might also like a new cookbook. She will probably be even more excited about the cookbook knowing you picked it out. After all, it was you she cooked for, for so many years! Please click here for a great selection of cookbooks.

Add a little color to your mother’s world by giving her a cooking piece that will last for years and years! We love the cast iron quality of Le Creuset and are sure she will too! Here is a range of options in our store, but you can also order online by clicking here.

If you want something with a bit of personality, then Claude is your man!! This little guy actually holds your iPad or cookbook while cooking in the kitchen! Not only is it cute, but a fun conversation piece that is very functional!

If you are scratching your head right now because you like our suggestions, but still aren’t sure- then might we suggest some Bering’s coffee? If you grew up with your mother starting her day with a cup of coffee, then we are pretty sure she will love one (or more) of our many flavorful brews. Try picking out a few blends for your mother and making a little gift basket. While our coffee is not Folgers, we think it is one of the best parts of waking up! Click here for some delicious coffee brews.

Last but certainly not least, we saved one of the best for last!! Your mother is sure to love some personalized stationery! We suggest you hurry in to place your order. If you run up against the clock and don’t have time for personalized stationery, trust us when we say that she will also love some lovely notepads, photo albums and so much more from our fine stationery department!

From teaching you your ABC’s to being there to watch you walk across the stage at graduation, mothers are the keystone of our family. Let’s recognize them this May 12th on Mother’s Day by letting them know we appreciate all they have done. We hope you and your family have a wonderfully special Mother’s Day!

Posted in Baby and Kids, Bath and Body, Bath and Candles, Bering's Home, Coffee, Coffee and Tea Room, Cookbooks, Cooking, Entertaining, Entertaining, Fine China, Gifts & Collectibles, Gifts and Collectibles, Home Decor, Kitchen, Stationery, Tabletop | Tagged Crane Stationery, Herend | Leave a comment

What a Great Piece of Furniture!

Posted on April 4, 2013 by admin

New furniture is exciting and a little of it can go a long way to help transform a room or space. The focus of this blog post is to feature some remarkable vignettes and some truly special furniture pieces from Theodore Alexander, Maitland-Smith and more quality manufacturers we are proud to carry at Bering’s Hardware. While these vignette pictures are in our store, try to picture a piece or two in your own home and have fun in doing so!!

The possibilities are endless with this beautiful Theodore Alexander antique silver leaf mirrored chest. From an entry way, to a reading nook, to a night stand or little girl’s room – this chest is extremely versatile. It is also the perfect decorative piece to add a touch of vibrancy to any room. This piece was inspired by a 1930s Italian original.

If you aren’t quite sold by a full out mirrored piece, then here is a slightly more subdued option, also by Theodore Alexander. This silvered and gilt verre églomisé paneled chest, with two short and three long graduated drawers each applied with brass handles on bun feet is exquisite!

While these two options are lovely, here is yet another that is sure to inspire you! We are on a role with all of the Theodore Alexander pieces, so while we are on that roll – here is another! Theodore Alexander’s silver Argento and hand painted console table with rectangular top above two frieze drawers with brass handles, on square tapering legs joined by two shelves is even more beautiful in person. You might be inspired to decorate around this remarkable console!

Perhaps you are in the market for a little decorative side table, with the same look as these three pieces. Jonathan Charles has truly done a remarkable job with this gilded iron square side table! It is loaded with versatility and has a slightly modern, but overall traditional appeal that is sure to be loved for a very long time.

It took all we had to hold off on featuring the gorgeous Bliss Studios carnavale pedestal table pictured below – LOVELY!! This sweet table is darling and would be amazing in a foyer or between two chairs on its own. Charming pretty much sums this one up!!

We would be remised to fail to mention some more amazing pieces by Jonathan Charles! Don’t you love this painted two drawer hanging shelf paired with the painted walnut planked buffet?! Both are just the right size for a kitchen or dining room. They would even be nice in a living room or den. Again, both are extremely versatile!!

As amazingly traditional as the above pieces have been, we are suckers for the ever beautiful wooden tone pieces! The Theodore Alexander oak & parquet console table featured below is stunning with a hint of masculinity with its strong straight lines. Add delicate decorative pieces and / or lamps to balance it out and make it your own.

Hello, Good Looking! Yes, Maitland-Smith has produced another gem with this safari leather vintage chest. We especially love the versatility and added functionality of the pull out tray. The mix of material also adds a nice depth that Maitland-Smith does so well!

Classic describes the Theodore Alexander chestnut burch cross band console table featured below. This table is lovely as seen here, or behind a sofa, entry way or a number of other areas! You can’t go wrong with the classics!!

To round-out this blog post we thought it would be fun to feature a decorative candle. Nouvelle Candle Company makes some amazingly aromatic candles that burn up to 160 hours! They are also hand poured and made here in the USA! We love them displayed as seen here or below on a side table.

Until the next Bering’s Home visit!

Housewarming wishes,
Julie

Posted in Bath and Candles, Bering's Home, Entertaining, Entertaining, Gifts & Collectibles, Gifts and Collectibles, Home Decor, Home Fragrance and Candles, Tabletop | Tagged Bliss Studio, Fine Furniture, Jonathan Charles, Maitland-Smith, Theodore Alexander | Leave a comment

Bourbon Barrel Soy Sauce & More!

Posted on March 26, 2013 by admin

Here is why we are fans of Bourbon Barrel Foods!

While it is true, we carry some seriously delicious sauces and seasonings at Bering’s Hardware, we are always on the lookout for products to add. We couldn’t be more excited about Bourbon Barrel Food’s line of gourmet products. Their philosophy is slow, small and simple. And from this process they produce some savory mixes that are seriously amazing! As delicious as they might be, the line is very innovative. The line is the first in America to make small-batch soy sauce.

Bourbon Barrel Foods is located in Louisville, Kentucky, which is known as the gateway to Bourbon Country. With this in mind, it shouldn’t be a surprise that Louisville area native, Matt Jamie developed a line of specialty foods, including flavored sorghums and spices perfumed with smoldering staves salvaged from spent bourbon barrels. He is noted as saying his bourbon-smoked paprika is what helped to pay for the development of his soy sauce. It is a truly special soy sauce, unlike any you have tried in the past.

Most of us are familiar with Japanese-style soy sauce. Matt Jamie’s product was inspired by the small soy breweries of Japan, which number around 1,600, but it boasts an impeccable Kentucky pedigree. Here is the Bourbon Barrel Food’s difference:

Matt Jamie buys organic soybeans and soft red winter wheat from a downstate Kentucky farmer whose family has been plowing the land since before the Civil War. Until recently, the farmer sold soybeans to a family of miso makers in Osaka, Japan. Mr. Jamie relies on limestone-filtered water from a nearby spring named after the Samuels family of Maker’s Mark fame.

He then boils his beans, roasts his wheat and ferments his sauce in the rear of a converted factory in Louisville. Mr. Jamie then ages that sauce in old whiskey barrels purchased from Buffalo Trace Distillery, down the road in Frankfort, and the Woodford Reserve Distillery, in Versailles.

Bourbon Barrel Foods makes gourmet food products such as Bourbon Barrel Aged Worcestershire Sauce, Bourbon Barrel Aged Soy Sauce, Kentuckyaki, Bourbon Smoked Sea Salt, Peppercorns and Paprika, and a line of gourmet Sweet Sorghums.

“We wanted to create a special place for people to shop that celebrates Kentucky’s bourbon heritage,” Matt Jamie, president of Bourbon Barrel Foods stated in a press release. “We also wanted to create an opportunity for people to see our products being made. So we located our plant in the same building as our retail space and built a special window into our incubation room. Bourbon lovers will appreciate this opportunity to see how we use the spent barrels and how we micro-brew our sauces.”

All of this is why we are sure you too will be a fan of Matt Jamie’s incredible line of Bourbon Barrel Foods! Pick some up at either store; it is the perfect addition to grilling season! Or purchase some online at: http://www.berings.com/Products/304725-bourbon-barrel-foods-bluegrass-soy-sauce.aspx

Posted in BBQ Grills, Entertaining, Gourmet Fare, Grilling, Sauces and Seasonings | Tagged Bourbon Barrel Foods Soy Sauce at Bering's Hardware | Leave a comment

Spring Cleaning with Bering’s Hardware!

Posted on March 18, 2013 by admin

Some Of Our Most Asked For Household Cleaners

Spring has sprung! The weather is lovely, the birds are serenading and flowers abound! Let’s not forget that additional spring hallmark – spring cleaning! Yes, we’ve been bitten by the cleaning bug and are excited to get our houses ready to sparkle!

Tackling spring cleaning can be a cinch if you are armed with your cleaning essentials. After all, you’d much rather be out enjoying spring time pastimes! While we stand by all of our household cleaning products, there are some that are most often requested by our loyal customers. As you prepare to restock your arsenal of cleaning essentials, enjoy a list of our most frequently requested household cleaners.

In no certain order, here is the list of some of our most asked for cleaners:

Guardsman Polish Wood Scent Pump 16oz

Wax and silicone-free, premium blend of natural and organic oils. Nourishes and revitalizes the finish, produces a deep, natural shine. Features convenient pump for fast and easy polishing. Trigger spray. 16 oz.

http://www.berings.com/Products/145890-guardsman-polish-wood-scent-pump-16oz-609906.aspx

Vanisol Toilet Bowl Cleaner

High acid bowl cleaner is a powerful liquid toilet bowl cleaner, disinfectant, and deodorizer for use in restrooms with heavy traffic, hardwater, or problem soils. High acid dissolves even the toughest built-up lime deposits, hard water scale, and rust stains. Will not harm septic tanks-contains a metal corrosion inhibitor. New angle neck bottle for easier application. Hospital type disinfectant. EPA Reg. No. 675-1.

http://www.berings.com/Products/195431-vanisol-toilet-bowl-cleaner-610372.aspx

Bar Keeper’s Friend

Cleanser and polish. Nonabrasive powder for copper, tile, brass, marble, porcelain, plastic, and glass cooktops. Removes rust. 12 oz.

http://www.berings.com/Products/158456-bar-keepers-friend-615536.aspx

Forever New 32

Forever New Ovacion Liquid is a richer formulation of the original Forever New, and is perfect for your black and dark fine washables. It is pure, organic, and biodegradeable. It removes body oils and perspiration stains, preserves fiber-flex and elasticity and keeps your garments looking new longer!. Ovacion leaves a clean, refreshing scent after washing and leaves no residue on your garments. Ovacion contains no optical brightners or lanolin

http://www.berings.com/Products/148563-forever-new-32-10032h.aspx

Eco88 Pet Stain and Odor Remover

EMPLOYEE FAVORITE! Augie Bering IV says, “Works great on pet urine stains and sweat stains on your golf and baseball caps. No fooling!” EMPLOYEE FAVORITE! Trudy says,” Best product in the store for pet stains. Customers can’t get enough of it!” REMOVES STAINS & ODORS PERMANENTLY! Fragrance FREE! NO SCRUBBING! NO RINSING! Eco-88 is a revolutionary new concept in stain and odor removal. Prior to Eco-88, the only stain and odor treatments available to pet owners have been enzyme type products. Eco-88 does not contain enzymes, nor is it just another spot remover. With the utilization of oxygen, Eco-88 tears down the odor causing gas molecules to elemental compounds that have no odor, therefore, removing both stains and odors regardless of the condition. Use Eco-88 Pet on Blood, Urine, Feces and Vomit. JUST Spray & WALK AWAY! GUARANTEED!

http://www.berings.com/Products/92827-eco88-pet-stain-and-odor-remover-eco88.aspx

Folex Spot Remover

FOLEX is a Water Based Non-Ionic Surfactant. WATER BASED means that it uses water to wash the stain away, and virtually residue free cleaning. NON-IONIC means that it does not have a positive (+) or a negative (-) charge… therefore it will not attract or repel dust and dirt, so that the cleaned area will soil uniformly with the surrounding area. The spot will not reappear! SURFACTANT means that it is an emulsifying agent that reduces surface tension… So it breaks up the stain, and surrounds it, so that it can be removed by blotting with a dry cloth or paper towel.

http://www.berings.com/Products/99354-folex-spot-remover-folex.aspx

Sprayaway Glass Cleaner 19oz

Quickly dissolves dirt, greasy grit, and grime. Use on glass, tile, brick, mirrors, and enamel surfaces. 19 oz.

http://www.berings.com/Products/191235-sprayaway-cleaner-19oz-603945.aspx

Incredible Stain Remover

A stain remover, cleaner, and deodorizer that has proven to be the finest, most unique stain remover available today for carpet, clothing, and upholstery. Easy-to-use; just apply, agitate, and blot. Nontoxic, nonflammable, and biodegradable. Approved for stain-resistant carpet. This product takes out pet stains, blood stains, cosmetics, coffee, food, wine, grease, and tea stains. 1 pint (16 fl. oz.).

http://www.berings.com/Products/174126-incredible-stain-remover-605107.aspx

Lavenet Marble Cleaner

Lavenet is a pH-balanced cleaner for marble, travertine, limestone (polished & honed), slate, granite (polished & flamed), flagstone, terrazzo, and other natural stones. Lavenet requires no rinsing when used properly. Lavenet is completely biodegradable and leaves no film on stone surfaces. Lavenet will not harm any natural stone.

http://www.berings.com/Products/175837-lavenet-marble-cleaner.aspx

Metal Polish 1.76oz tube, by Flitz

Can be used to clean and protect virtually all metals, fiberglass, and painted surfaces. Protects against rust, tarnish, water stains, and salt or fresh water corrosion up to 6 months.

http://www.berings.com/Products/169863-metal-polish-176oz-tube-by-flitz-614351.aspx

Polish, Furniture, Beeswax, 16oz, by Howards Products Inc.

Use Feed-N-Wax to prevent drying and cracking while preserving the wood finish. A unique blend of beeswax, carnauba wax, and orange oil. The oils enhance the natural beauty and depth of grain in finished and unfinished wood. It is an excellent follow-up to Restor-A-Finish. 16 oz.

http://www.berings.com/Products/168614-polish-furniture-beeswax-16oz-by-howards-products-inc-779258.aspx

Grandma’s Spot Remover

Just a drop will remove oil, grease, paint, make-up, grass, ink, blood, baby formula, coffee, rust, most any stain. Environmentally safe, biodegradable, non-toxic-no chlorine or phosphates. Safe for most fabrics. 2 fl oz.

http://www.berings.com/Products/48338-grandmas-spot-remover-1001hws.aspx

Until the next Bering’s Home visit!

Julie

Posted in Bering's Home, Eco-Friendly Cleaners, Housekeeping, Kitchen and Bath Care, Pests, Silver Care, Surface Care | Tagged Spring Cleaning | Leave a comment

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