Elsie Green isn't just a shop—it's a philosophy. This family-run business transforms homes with thoughtfully curated vintage pieces while championing eco-conscious living. In this issue, we speak to Laurie Furber, the founder and owner of Elsie Green, whose journey from aspiring museum curator to merchandising maven inspired a business built on passion, family, and giving back.
1) Tell us a little about your background. What made you leave the corporate world to start your business with your business partner, JP?
I thought I'd be a museum curator, but after graduating with my Bachelor of Fine Arts, I thought I'd take a year off and make some money before getting my Masters in Arts Administration. During that break, I found merchandising, and now I'm a curator of a different sort.
I worked for three big companies, each started by one man with a passion—Eddie Bauer, Walt Disney, and Williams-Sonoma. Those were all great experiences, and they made me feel like I would like to start my own business someday to share my passions with a group of like-minded people.
2) What is the story and inspiration behind the name Elsie Green?
We wanted the name of the company to feel like there's a real person at the heart of it. Elsie is a derivative of my first and middle initials, LC, and Green is a note to our sustainable ethos -- everything in the collection is sustainable in some way.
While working for Pottery Barn, I felt there was a white space in the market for a sustainable home line that was neither too modern nor too rustic. At the heart of the collection would be vintage items collected from France, where sustainability is woven into daily life.
3) How do you find inspiration in curating a space?
Everywhere! I always have my eyes open when I'm here in San Francisco or traveling the world, looking for ideas that can flourish into something bigger. I like hotels for inspiration on how to arrange furniture, restaurants for inspiration on setting a mood, museums for inspiration on wall color, and how to hang art. And I'm always looking for inspiration for a memorable service experience wherever I go.
4) What is your favorite country to visit to find sustainable, vintage goods?
France! I have a small group of French friends who have beautiful taste, so I always find the best things there. It's tricky to find markets or villages where the rest of the world is not shopping, so I like to tap into my network to find new places to visit on each shopping trip.
5) What are your favorite items you've found while traveling?
I have a fascination with vintage glassware, so I always dive deep into those categories when I travel. I found a gorgeous set of Baccarat glassware that I gifted a good friend for her wedding, and I have a vintage Baccarat ashtray on my bathroom vanity that holds my favorite red rose soap. I could peruse the different styles and shapes of glassware for hours. And I always add to my art collection when I'm traveling. My favorite new acquisition is a 1954 Jean Cocteau portrait drawing I found in a flea market in Paris. Walking into a crowded market stall and finding the one perfect treasure that I know our customers will love is a real pleasure for me. And it's a treat to find something fun for myself sometimes, too.
Here are some tips from Laurie to incorporate vintage finds in your modern homes.
Rugs:
Consider incorporating a vintage rug to bring depth and character to a modern home. Beautifully aged Moroccan and Turkish rugs add warmth and a sense of history to your space, acting as a perfect counterbalance to clean, contemporary lines. Hand-knotted and worn softly over time, these rugs offer rich texture and a unique story, making them an ideal foundation for any well-designed room.
Flatware:
Vintage flatware is an easy way to add charm to your table. The unique patina and detailing make everyday meals feel a little more special. Pair it with modern plates for a collected, effortless look that feels inviting and full of personality.
Glassware:
Add a little sparkle to your table or bar cart with vintage glassware. From delicate etching to unique shapes, each piece has its own charm that makes any drink feel a bit more special. Mix and match with modern pieces for a timeless and effortlessly stylish look.
Upholstery:
Vintage upholstery brings a sense of history and texture to your space, making your furniture feel one-of-a-kind. Whether it's a richly worn leather armchair or a beautifully patterned fabric, these pieces add warmth and personality to any room. Pair them with modern accents for a look that's layered, inviting, and uniquely yours.
Find beautiful pieces to accentuate your home at elsiegreen.com
"Walking into a crowded market stall and finding the one perfect treasure that I know our customers will love is a real pleasure for me. And it's a treat to find something fun for myself sometimes, too."