Check Out Crystal Felder’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Crystal Felder.

Crystal, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Honestly, this whole journey started because I’m a mom and trying to find a gig that makes sense financially and lines up with a crazy kid schedule, is hard!

After being a stay at home mom for years, I was ready to find myself again.
I never felt pushed to go back to work. But I did feel that tug, to have something of my “own”.
My twins were getting ready to start elementary school and I knew I would have some extra time to make that happen. So I started brainstorming ideas that would mesh well with our chaotic life.
Well, while it was a process for me… My friends and family knew right away, what I needed to do. REFINISH FURNITURE!
I had dabbled in it here and there, over the years, and it was always enjoyable. So I thought.. Why not?!

Now if you know anything about furniture refinishing, it’s not something you just somehow know how to do.
So I jumped right into researching and learning. I watched all the videos and read all the articles I could find, trying to soak up the knowledge I needed to get started.
It was intimidating.. But exhilarating and empowering, all at the same time!
I was all in!

I scoured Facebook Marketplace for the perfect piece of furniture to start with.
Stopped by the hardware store for a drop cloth and primer.
Then popped over to SuzAnna’s Antiques (in Rolesville) to snag the best paint, top coat and brushes!
And the rest is history!

That was June of 2020 and over the last year+ I have been so blessed to have refinished countless pieces of furniture, met some of the absolute best people and enjoyed every second of doing what I truly love!

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Oh goodness. Starting the business was the easy part.
But actually refinishing furniture is never a truly smooth road! haha
It’s a constant learning process. I don’t really know if you can ever just know it all. Every day, I run into something new and challenging.
However, I have learned to embrace those struggles and challenges. Because, in the end, they make us all better at our craft!

If I could go back and give myself advice, it would be…
– You’re not in competition with anyone.
– Find your artistic style and run with it.
– Know your worth.
– Don’t overcommit or overwhelm yourself.
– Embrace your perfectionism. It will be what sets you apart.
– Manage your time wisely. Take the time off. Family always comes first.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Enhanced Life Furnishings is a furniture revitalization company. I find quality built vintage or sometimes newer furniture pieces that have seen better days and bring them back to life!

I have found that my niche is not so much restoration. But full out refinishing.
My pieces definitely tend to lean toward a bold, clean styling, with a “wow” factor.
I love a good statement piece!

What am I most proud of?
My customers!!
Never in a million years would I have dreamed I would have the customer base and following that I do.
They are literally the most wonderful, loyal people and I feel so blessed to have every one of them in my life!

What sets me apart?
If you ask my husband… My perfectionism! Ha!
It’s a blessing and a curse!
It drives me mad, while working on a piece. But in the end, I’m so grateful for it, because I know I can stand behind any product that has my name on it.

Where do you see things going in the next 5-10 years?
If anything, I see refinished furniture becoming an even more common trend in homes and businesses, over the coming years. I say this because, furniture just isn’t built the way it used to be.
People want solid wood, dovetailed joints and overall quality craftsmanship. Pieces that are going to last. Not end up in a landfill every few years.
Not to mention, just like clothing… Styles always come back around!
Even the newly built pieces are trying to mimic vintage designs.

Contact Info:

• Email: enhancedlife.furnishings@gmail.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/enhancedlife_furnishings
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/enhancedlifefurnishings

 

Image Credits
Kristen McCutcheon – Captivated Photography