The Scoop on European Travel

We hope you all know that our products come from Europe, but for those readers who are new to our company or might not be aware- our team curates a collection of found antique objects and home furnishings and décor crafted from sustainable, recycled or repurposed materials- all from various countries in Europe.

Over the years, many of you have asked how we go about collecting our antique pieces or where our signature trivets are made. There’s no quick answer to that question but for starters, etúHOME owners Joe and Stacy spend a good deal of time in Europe. While they are there, they focus on purchasing antiques, gathering inspiration for new collections and working in our Hungarian factory to perfect and inspect our products. With all of that to accomplish on each monthly trip, Joe and Stacy are accustomed to a high-pace, always-be-ready-for-whatever-comes-next travel schedule. When I think about it, it’s mind blowing what they are able to accomplish while out of the country. So, I thought I’d sit down with Stacy and ask her some questions about her travels, her favorite spots and the best thing about coming home.  Here's the scoop:

What is the one thing you never travel without?

My little bag of chargers and adapters, it’s just silly not to be prepared.

Your favorite European city to visit is?

Budapest… always Budapest. The history, the architecture and the people continue to impress. The city is constantly evolving and it’s where our European offices are based.

What’s inspiring you right now?

Bringing the outside in. The new Kate Winslet movie, Les Jardins Du Roi gives a glimpse of the glory of Louis XIV’s gardens at Versailles. It’s incredibly inspiring! After seeing the trailer for the film, I found myself noticing subtle elements of flowers and plants being incorporated into the home. I bought all the jardinières at the fairs that I could find!

When you shop the antique fairs in France, what does your day and schedule consist of?

Whew! Well I’m always up early on those days- you have to be. As soon as I’m up, I’m on the road because the gates to the fairs open at 8:00am. And one should not be late or you may miss the best things! Once the gates open, it’s a total whirlwind of activity. My eyes are peeled and my feet poised so I can get the best items at the best price for our customers. Around noon I usually get a minute to catch my breath and discover that I’ve already filled half of my truck. At that point, many vendors are already packing up so I make my final purchases and call it a day.

Do you have a favorite purchase from your trip last month?

A pair of mouth blown Murano glass lamps from the 30s.

What restaurants or shops do you like to frequent on your travels?

I have become quite familiar with all the brocantes outside of Avignon. The stall owners smile and welcome me back- typically pulling special gems out from under the table that they have been saving for me.

The best thing about coming home is?

A few solitary moments with my Nespresso machine and the NY Times.