Occupation: “Store Manager, Antique Brick and Block, and Antique Brick Outdoors.”

Special Interests/Hobbies: “Reading and traveling, whenever possible. Living in ‘The Natural State.’ I love anything and everything outdoors – cycling, camping, lake-ing – the options are endless around here!”

Trends in the Patio Furniture Industry: “More than ever, outdoor furniture styles mimic indoor décor styles. We don’t see defined ‘sets’ anymore. Mixing styles, textures, fabrics, finishes – it creates interest and doesn’t date itself as quickly.”

Importance of the Outdoor Room Trend: “The Outdoor Room has become part of our lifestyle now. The demand continues to grow for the ‘complete package’ – hardscape materials, fireplaces, ovens, kitchens, dining, lounging, etc. This is creating large opportunities for repeat sales from customers. Typically, they start with hardscape design and build from there.”

Most Coveted Amenities in Outdoor Rooms: “Fire! Anything that provides the element of fire – built-in pits, fireplaces, fire tables, pizza ovens, table torches. “Lighting is also huge – finding something that’s aesthetically pleasing and made for the outdoors can provide a challenge.”

Years Reading Hearth & Home: “Eight years – and loyally from the start!”

Reasons for Reading Hearth & Home: “It’s our connection to the entire industry. I most love the store profiles that feature independent retailers. It gives us a chance to see the challenges that folks similar to us are facing and how they deal with those challenges and, ultimately, what they’re doing well that we can learn from.”