What Makes a Rocking Chair Beautiful?
I'll try making a list that we bring to our design and making:
- coherence of design
- composition of wood figure
- fair curves
- a human form in negative
- precision and fit
- sculptural surfaces
- sensuous finish
- craftsmanship
- hell-for-stout, but visually supple
- animated by light and shadow
The messages below are a measure of our success.
Gary/Aubrey
My rocking chair arrived today in perfect condition. Great job packing. It's beautiful, better than the picture. Great craftsmanship. I'll treasure it.
Thanks,
T.M.Portland, Oregon
Thank you for the note, Gary!
I have been meaning to write to let you know we received the chair in perfect condition on Tuesday, when my husband was home. It's a lovely creature!
Many thanks for your work!
Sincerely,
K.W.Mill Valley, California
Hi Gary & Aubrey –
The chair arrived as scheduled on Friday afternoon – it is absolutely beautiful! My husband really loves it. BTW, you do a great job with the packaging. Despite the fact that the carton was fairly beat up & part of the wood frame was broken, the chair was in perfect condition.
Best regards,
C.L.C.L. Bethesda Maryland
Dear Aubrey, Gary and Staff,
The chair arrived yesterday . . . Oh how beautiful!! . . . and how amazingly comfortable it is!? Wow!
Until my next order, Thank you! Thank you!
Sincerely,
G.S.P.S. — The babies are scheduled to be delivered on Friday!
Davenport, Iowa
Dear Gary,
Thanks for the message. My wife and I have been traveling a great deal so I apologize for the slow response. I was definitely wanting to write you after we had a chance to "sit" with the chair a bit (no pun intended ;-) and give you our thoughts.
In short, we really love it! Your work is as beautifully crafted and detailed as you communicate over the website and our expectations were not disappointed in any regard. My wife and I are different in size and honestly when we first pulled it out of the box, it's size and presence was larger than we expected. I believe we both thought it might be slightly smaller. As a result, I was worried that I would love it, but L. would potentially feel a bit dwarfed. However, I am not quite sure how you have done it, but you have managed to craft a chair that is comfortable for someone of my size 6' and 180lbs-ish and also for my wife of 5'-5" and petite weight . . . well done!
We both feel that it is extremely comfortable and has a very well balanced character of sturdiness with graceful and soft transitions in all the appropriate detail points. We both gain a tremendous amount of joy in just running our hands over the smooth maple arms and it is a real pleasure to "feel" excellent craftsmanship. One of my favorite details at the moment is the expressed connection at the edge of the armrest where it has been mortised all the way thru for the vertical support. However, I keep finding more "favorites" as I enjoy studying the subtleties as we go along.
The maple is beautiful and your level of finish is perfect. We really have no complaints and are thrilled that we now have such a beautiful piece that our children will grow up with and then have one day for their own. We might just be calling you up again for another one so that both our kids may have one to enjoy down the road!
Regarding the delivery, it turned out to be ok, but we were anticipating it on Tuesday the 11th so I am glad that someone was here to accept the delivery (we live in an apartment). Luckily, the chair was delivered with no damage so it did not matter in the end that we were not able to review the delivery condition prior to signing. I appreciate your follow up.
In closing, you are a true master craftsman and we feel blessed to have such a wonderful piece of functional art in our living room to enjoy for many years. Our thanks to you and your family and staff for the quality, professionalism, communication and follow thru. Having done this all remotely, you all have made the experience a very smooth and seamless one.
Many thanks.
C and L.H.Asheville, North Carolina.
Thank you so much. The chair is beautiful and I am glad we decided to go with the cherry. You are a trueartisan and craftsman and your work is lovely.
Thanks again,
M.K.Chesterfield, Missouri
Gary,
The chair is GREAT! For some reason your email went to my junk email and I did not get it until I was cleaning out my mail. I am sorry. I have been living in MY chair and love it. Thank you so much for your speedy delivery but most of all for the beautifully hand crafted chair.
Best to you and your family,
B.K.Salt Lake City, Utah
Gary,
The rocker arrived as scheduled. The truck came while R. was at the grocery and I was able to hide it before she returned. We opened the box the next day. We were very pleased with what we removed from the box. R., our family and I thought the chair was the most beautful and comfortable we had seen. We have two more grandchildren on the way, we will rock babies for many pleasant hours.
Thanks
W.S.Spartanburg, South Carolina
Hi Gary,
Got the curly cherry rocker this morning. There was no damage and the chair is beautiful. Very nice work and a pleasure to sit in. Thanks so much for being so dependable and easy to work with. Hope to do more business someday. Thanks again for beautiful and comfortable rocker.
D.B.Walker, Missouri
Thank you — the chair and stool arrived as promised, and is even lovelier than I had remembered.
E.K.Missouri City, Texas
Dear Gary,
Yes, I meant to e-mail you earlier! The chair is fine. I love it. BAX Global was easy to deal with, and they even specified a range of four hours for delivery, which was helpful.
Just so you're informed, there was a small hole in one side of the box, about large enough for a finger, but it was opposite the back of the chair. No problem.
It's really soothing to have the beautiful, comfortable chair and stool.
Thank you.
M.N.Oakland, California
Gary,
Our chairs arrived on Thursday as planned. The surprise was perfect — my wife drove in the driveway just as they were being unloaded from the delivery truck. They're beautiful, and we're very pleased.
Thanks again,
J.S.Lafayette, Colorado
It's here!
Looks very handsome. We are happy. We are even talking about a cherry chair, but I'll have to come back to you on that.
Thanks — it's beautifully crafted and of course comfortable.
Best,
D. and D.M.New York, New York
Gary,
The rocking chair I recently purchased from you has exceeded my expectations.
I purposely waited until I had the chair a couple of months to see if the novelty of the rocker would wear off . . . but it hasn't. I've always wanted a good rocking chair to sit in to read or chat with others and now I have it. I never tire of sitting in the chair; it's a great fit for my body and back. I find myself sliding my fingers up and down the arms, the wood is so smooth and appealing. And of course, what I've always liked about your chair, every inch of the entire chair is just as smooth as the arms. I enjoy a good rock, and your chair has given me just that
I wrote at the beginning of my note that the chair has exceeded my expectations. I'm amazed how well the walnut wood with its natural finish fits in with the light oak that I have throughout the majority of my house. This chair, like all of the other chairs I've seen that you've crafted, is a work of art, especially with the magnificent grain and the way you've used the grain to bring out the beauty of the chair. Such a seemingly simple design, yet the chair stands out as a thing of beauty over all the other furniture in our living area.
I see you've delivered approximately 23 more chairs since I acquired #1767 in May. If these most recent purchasers were looking for a beautiful chair to rock to their heart's content, I'm sure you have 23 more delighted customers. Come on, West Virginia!!
My thanks to you, Austin, and the rest of your team for your passion for excellence. I observe it and feel it every day!!
S.S.Fair Oaks Ranch, Texas
Mr. Weeks,
The rocking chair arrived in perfect condition. The packaging was great. Thanks for a beautiful rocking chair that I'll pass down to my children.
B.C.Alexandria, Virginia
Dear Gary,
I just wanted to thank you for the beautiful rocker. It looks wonderful up in the SOU library.
Thank you
S.C.Ashland, Oregon
Gary,
The chair is beautiful, she was surprised, and she loves it. Thanks for helping me make such a memorable birthday for my wife and for providing us with a piece of furniture that will become a family heirloom.
Sincerely,
J.R.American Falls, Idaho
I had meant to write a bit sooner, but things have been quite busy. We have received the rocker, of course, and it is every bit as beautiful and comfortable as the ones in your showroom. We have already gotten a number of compliments on it, as well as great enjoyment from simply sitting in it and reading in our sun room. I fear that when our son is born I will no longer get to sit in it much . . . we already fight over it a bit, and I won't have any leverage once nursing starts. We will be sure to send you pictures.
J.S.Princeton, New Jersey
What a beauty! All went well with delivery and I am enjoying sitting with a view of my garden in my new cherry rocker.
Thanks very much.
M.R.Huntington Beach, California
Dear Gary;
Yes, I am truly enjoying your rocking chair. Its very comfortable as well as beautiful, and with my bad back, I am a happy guy.
Thanks,
I.V.Ashfield, Massachusetts
Gary,
Today our son turned 6 months and we've had our beautiful rocker for just one week longer than that. Upon opening the crate I knew immediately that my wife and I really had our first work of art for our home. It compliments our nursery perfectly and would compliment the style of any room in our home that we might later choose for it. Your chair rocks like a champ and certainly served its purpose rocking our son to sleep for those first testing weeks. One thing I did not expect was for the chair to be so soft and touchable. I have never before experienced such incredible smoothness in a sanding job; nor have I seen any craftsmanship glow the way this chair does!
Now that your rocker has been officially crowned a family heirloom, I had to send you our sincerest thanks. Your special care in sizing and cutting our chair back inscription is priceless, and I recommend it to anyone looking to make their chair truly unique. You really do offer an incredible piece at truly a bargain price. You should continue to be proud of the work you and your shop turns out. I look forward to purchasing a dining room set from you in a few years when we are more capable. Thank you again!
S.P.Chicago, Illinois
Gary:
We love the rocker! The craftsmanship is remarkable; the design inspired. It is seemingly molded to one's body without a pressure point to be found! You absolutely do not need a cushion. We had some friends over last weekend and they loved it as well. I wouldn't be surprised if you receive some additional orders as a result, but I suspect that's how you get most of your business.
It is reassuring to know that there is still someone out there that understands quality and takes pride in their work.
Regards,
G.U.Reston, Virginia
Hi Gary,
We love the rocking chair, and it fits so well in our new home. The rocker is beautiful, functional, and so comfortable! At some point this summer, J. will be delivering a desk for our study, and I'll be sure that he has a chance to rock for a few minutes. Thanks very much!
K.H.Morrisville, Vermont
Gary,
The rocker is both an anniversary gift and will become an heirloom for our family. It is beautiful.
Thank you,
M.A.Houston, Texas
Hi Gary!
I know that J. and I emailed you a few weeks ago to let you know that the chair arrived and that we love it, but I am writing to you again, b/c I just want you to know how much I LOVE THIS CHAIR!!!!! I sit in it everyday and it is so comfortable and beautiful! Thank you so much for such a fine piece of furniture. It already is the favorite piece of furniture we own!
Thanks again and take care,
A.Y.Sammamisha, Washington
I just wanted to let you know that the rocking chair was delivered on Wednesday and my husband and I absolutely love it! We could not be more thrilled!
Thank you so much for making us (and our soon-to-be-born baby) the beautiful rocking chair!
I know we will use it, cherish it and keep it for years to come!
Sincerely,
J.J.Chicago, Illinois
Hello Gary.
We are already enjoying our beautiful chair. What an example of form and function. I have never experienced such smooth wood and we are amazed at its velvety touch even on the cross-grain ends. We are so appreciative of your art and craftsmanship in every detail of this family heirloom.
As an occupational therapist (retired), this chair is not only artful, but should be in every physical rehabilitation center, and, at least in every home. The vestibular (sometimes called the "sixth" sense) input from rocking forward and backward stimulates this important neurological system, which serves to balance and regulate output of the body's neuro-muscular centers. Putting it in behavioral terms, last night, I noticed, after rocking for several minutes a lingering feeling of well-being and relaxation. I felt that I had just arrived back from a brisk walk around the neighborhood or maybe even a massage! Just running your hands over the soft curves of this chair charges another sensory system — tactile input. Visual senses are awakened just walking into the living room . . . . . this chair just lures you to sit down!
So far, R. and I have not argued once about who gets to sit in our rocking chair, but we are definitely aware that most likely it will happen one day. We are thrilled, Gary, with your chair and impressed with your professional services surrounding the shipping, delivery, and customer satisfaction. We seldom see this kind of craft and art anymore and are so pleased that we have been a part of it. Thanks to you and to your family for your dedication and vision. It is poetry.
Sincerely,
L.S.Minden, Nevada
Dear Gary:
The rocker arrived in perfect condition and it is beautiful — everything I expected. My husband says it's a work of art. My son — who is 20 — first said, "How come you got that?" Then last evening (as he sat in it), he said, "I know I wondered why you bought this rocker, but I find myself sitting in it every time I come into the room." He was there again this morning! (My answer to him was that I bought it because it looked beautiful and I think rocking is soothing and relaxing for all of us.)
Thank you so much!
P.B.Chalfont, Pennsylvania
Gary — it arrived yesterday (Tuesday) and I couldn't be happier. It is a very beautiful piece of craftsmanship and without a doubt one of the nicest things I own.
Thank you.
K.P.Annandale, Minnesota
It arrived promptly and in perfect condition — several days before your first estimated date. And it is gorgeous! Thank you very much,
S.Westcliffe, Colorado
Hi. I called your office earlier to say how beautiful the chair is. Really special. I am sure T. will be pleased. Glad to have helped.
J.Greenwich, Connecticut
Gary —
Yes, the chair arrived yesterday; it's beautiful . . . and very comfortable.
Thank you. That was the easiest furniture selection, purchase, and delivery ever!
D.R.Salt Lake City, Utah
Gary and Leslie —
The chair arrived, as promised, in perfect condition. It is beautifully made, beyond our expectations, and we're delighted with it. Many thanks.
C. and F.K.Cranbury, New Jersey
Gary
My chair is parked in my living room. Along with the foot stool. Apparently UPS called me yesterday, while I was away from work. Anyway, they delivered the chair and stool around 10 o'clock. Both are in excellent shape and true works of art. I am very pleased with the walnut wood. And very happy I decided on walnut.
I was only able to sit in it for a brief time, since I had to come back here to work. Anyway, it was a rather cold sit. The chair had not warmed up yet. The weather here has taken a drastic turn back toward winter, and I doubt if the UPS truck sat in a heated garage last night.
Next to my chair (here) are some selected reading assignments that will be going home with me. After I get a fire started in the stove, I will plant myself in the most comfortable chair in the universe.
Thank you very much.
C.S.Des Moines, Iowa
Hi Gary —
Just want to let you know that the chair arrived intact. It's a beautiful work of art and we all love it, especially J. You and your "company" can be proud of the work you do and the smiles you bring to so many. I know I'll be a repeat customer.
M.B.W.Vacaville, California
Gary,
The rocker is here, and is comfy and gorgeous! J.D. arrived on 3/22, and my husband D. arranged to pick up the rocker before we were discharged from the hospital. We are looking forward to many years of enjoying the rocker.
thanks much,
S.K.Albuquerque, New Mexico
Hi Gary,
The rocker and stool arrived today and all I can say is "WOW"! After unpacking I sat and rocked awhile. The longer I rocked the More comfortable I got — it truly felt as if I melted right into the chair. The stool is also very comfortable, both as a foot rest and as a seat. And Beautiful — the construction, the graining of the cherry — I can't compliment you enough. Thank you so much, You have made Grandma and future Grandbaby very happy.
I.H.Louisville, Kentucky
Please excuse my delay in responding to your email. But an email seems an inadequate vehicle by which to express my delight and gratitude. I hesitated sitting in my rocking chair at first, taken aback by its beauty. It is comfortable and enveloping; solid yet easy for me to move across the carpet; exquisitely built, and gorgeous to behold. I am thrilled with it. The cherry wood was a perfect choice – the chair looks at home in the room. All of you are artists of the highest order, and I am honored to have one of your pieces.
M.R.Sherman Oaks, California
Gary,
Chairs were delivered in perfect condition and they are beautiful.
Thanks for making such a great product!
Best regards,
P.B.Riegelsville, Pennsylvania
We unpacked the rocker last night. The wood is beautiful and workmanship is outstanding. The chair will be a lasting memory for our 22 anniversary. I wish I was home sitting in it now. I look forward to one day bringing it back to Texas.
Sincerely,
B.D.Murfreesboro, Tenneesee
Good Friday morning, Gary!
Given to me as a birthday present by my husband, your (now MINE!) rocking chair is the most beautiful, most comfortable piece of furniture we have every seen! It is obvious that it has been expertly crafted by caring hands from extraordinary selections of wood. It is quite perfect! It is the only chair that my oddly crooked tailbone has ever felt comfortably resting in!
Delivery went without a hitch, as the delivery man helped me unscrew, cut, tear and uncover this work of art that will be treasured for generations!
In fact, we are so impressed, we are considering purchasing some of your dining room furniture. Would you be able to send us a sample of the "hand-planed" surface? Or, if not possible, could you email a photo of this option to us?
Fine job on your website, as well! It is chock full of useful information!
Many thanks and best wishes!
V.B.West Hartford, Connecticut
Gary,
Thank you so much for following-up. Yes, we received the chair and it is absolutely beautiful. My wife loves it!!
It looks great in the room with the baby furniture. I'll send you a picture if I get a chance. (in between naps . . .)
We are both looking forward to many years in this fine chair.
Thank you again.
Take care,
S.K.Springfield, Pennsylvania
Thanks, Gary. Yes, we got them and they are gorgeous. They were well packed too.
These chairs are for me and my wife and companion of 34 years. We hope to rock our way through another 34. We won't start rocking until Christmas, though.
BTW, your follow-up is impressive. Like everything else about your business, it shows quality and care.
Merry Christmas.
J.A.Highland, Illinois
Dear Mr. Weeks,
yes, the furniture has arrived. It is all what we anticipated — just beautiful. The chair is really, really comfortable. All items are perfect workmanship. Thank you. It was our pleasure doing business with you. Happy Holidays!
H.M.Kensington, California
Gary: The Rocker did arrive at about 1:00 p.m. today. It is in great condition and is beautiful. Thanks so much for your work! We look forward to a lifetime of enjoyment. Merry Christmas to you and yours.
M. and M.C.Chappell Hill, North Carolina
Good morning Gary,
I received the rocker Tuesday in perfect condition. It really is a beautiful piece of furniture, and a testament to your craftsmanship. My wife and I look forward to holding many children in it!
Thanks for your help,
M.H.Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina
The rocking chair arrived, and it is without a doubt one of the finest pieces of furniture I've seen. The quality and workmanship are impeccable. Thank you so much for the fine work.
D.C.Hendersonville, North Carolina
The chair arrived as scheduled @ 2:00 pm this afternoon in perfect condition. It is beautiful and comfortable!
We will have a very good sit-down Christmas.
Best to you and all of your family.
Fondly,
C. & R.C.Dallas, Texas
It's a beautiful piece of work, and graces the room in which it rocks. Thanks to your folks there for a wonderful rocker.
N.K.Valley Village, California
The chair arrived and it is beautiful!
Our "late in life" baby came early, things actually started happening a few hours after I placed my order with you, and we could not be happier with either delivery. Our older daughters, both teenagers, have requested that the chair be passed onto them . . .
Thank you for your great creation and your wonderful customer service!
N.P.Pineville, Louisiana
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