In our effort to get to know our local resources, Vicki asked Ann Tipton, who owns Expressions Furniture, to answer a few questions about design & what she appreciates in most in life.
Vicki: What in your background brought you to this business?
Ann: My sales experience started in media. I was selling air time for radio. Sales is natural for me. It is the family business. My dad, Charles Tober, owned retail businesses for many years.
My first contact with Expressions was as a customer. I purchased furniture for my family’s new home. It didn’t take long before I wanted to work there. I loved the furniture. Retail! At first I was part time ( I started when I was pregnant). After a few years I became full time. The combination of design and sales was great. A few more years go by and I was interested in being the owner of Expressions. I talked to the owners and eventually it happened.
V: What inspires you?
A: I am inspired by people, by listening to them and finding out what they want. I like figuring out what someone else likes. That they would come to me to give them what they want is always inspiring.
V: What trend do you like?
A: Linen. Linen is a timeless trend. It is relaxed and natural. I especially like the classic, elegant look of blocked prints on linen. That is a trend that could go on forever.
V: What can’t you live without?
A: Candy especially jelly bellies, hot tea with cappuccino foam, telling stories and making people laugh, my kids; they’re older now but I still like knowing they are there.
V: What advice do you have for someone wanting to purchase new furniture?
A: First I would say—Come to Expressions. You will be inspired. It is not a big box store; it’s more of a boutique. You will receive guidance from design professionals in the store or in your home. We offer selections on style of furniture as well as size, fabrics, trim and finishes. You will make the furniture your own, not what someone else thinks you should have. You will stay true to yourself and have fun finding and creating your furniture.
