I grew up watching my Dad make custom cabinets. I was fascinated with the process of creating the unique custom cabinetry he made for clients. He had a love for wood and would plan, dream and design the cabinets with precision and passion. He was quite fussy that the wood was straight and had matching grains. I felt the pride he took in building these pieces and the end result was an exceptional product. I was often my Dad’s helper and would assist him with sawing, sanding and so on. He let me help and most of all, he let me into his world! It never ceases to amaze and surprise me how many things I learned and still remember! With 2 sisters and a mom who were not all that interested, that was big stuff – and  also training for a future career that I had not even dreamed of.

Years later, I decided to refurbish some “unique finds” for a new home we were building. I loved the process of dreaming, planning and creating just as my father had. Friends saw what I had created and were very complimentary. They began asking me to refurbish pieces for them…and that was the beginning of Cottage by the Sea. I began finding pieces to refurbish to sell and I had a “lightbulb” moment! Although I had a few entrepreneurial businesses before on a smaller scale, this is what I was meant to do. I loved finding pieces that were made with quality construction and interesting details. I could see the potential in those finds. It takes an exceptional effort to refurbish and bring a fresh new style to a vintage piece while preserving what makes it special.

I now live in Crescent Beach and draw inspiration from my surroundings daily. I love a light, clean, fresh beach style for my creations. I love a space to have a peaceful and calming vibe. This approach also works very well with pieces from many different eras, which many people find a pleasant surprise!

It’s been wonderful to see the positive response to my company.  At a young age, I learned about hard work, dedication to doing your best, the value of quality craftsmanship and now I get to use what I learned in what I create each day.  My company brings that same passion for excellence to all the pieces we refurbish, repair and restyle!

I truly enjoy what I do but the best part is seeing a customer fall in love with something that I’ve reimagined. From my cottage by the sea to your home… it is my hope that you enjoy our restyled vintage goods for years to come.

I truly enjoy what I do but the best part is seeing a customer fall in love with something that I’ve reimagined. From my cottage by the sea to your home… it is my hope that you enjoy our restyled vintage goods for years to come.