Shop Talk: Skylar Ireton
Q: What motivated you to start Skylar’s Home & Patio?
A: Skylar’s Home & Patio was founded in October 2010. After being in the patio furnishings business for more than a decade, I decided it was time to branch out on my own. I told my parents my dream, and they lent me money. It was scary at first; but thanks to local support, we’ve caught on. As of today, we are full steam ahead and looking to grow our business. Nothing is certain in life, but dreams do come true.
Q: What is your target market?
A: Anybody and everybody looking for quality, stylish furnishings at everyday low prices.
Q: What is your business philosophy?
A: We are a family-owned business. Our motto is, ‘Support your local furniture store.’
Q: What sets you apart from your competitors?
A: We hear from our clients that other furnishings stores are very pushy. They tell us how much they appreciate our more relaxed business style and environment. We have an eclectic blend of stylish furnishings that you won’t see everywhere. And given that our store is smaller than most, we are always changing the store around to keep it fresh. About 60 percent of our products is either made locally or USA made.
Q: What are the latest styles you’re seeing in the marketplace?
A: Reclaimed boat wood has definitely taken off. I remember looking through the last Pottery Barn catalog that came out; it was funny to see the style they were selling was the same style that I have been doing the last three years out of my store. We definitely keep up with the latest trends, while setting the bar for what’s to come.
Q: What is the range of products at Skylar’s?
A: We can furnish any room of your house, inside or out. We specialize in mid- to highend furnishings. For the home, we have custom-made sofas and sectionals, bedroom furniture, dining room furniture, lighting, bathroom vanities, home office furniture and accessories. For patios, we have furniture in resin wicker, cast aluminum, teak and recycled plastic. We also sell patio heaters, umbrellas, fire pits and Sunbrella products.
Q: What does Skylar’s carry that no one else has in the San Diego area?
A: Maria Yee, North Cape International, Gabby Home, Summer Classics and Polywood, which is a green product made in the United States.
Q: Do you provide design services?
A: We have both free and fee [design services]. We have in-house designers who will come out and space plan for serious buyers at no charge. When it comes to full interior design services, we do it by the hour or by the project.
Q: How many locations do you have?
A: To date we have one location. However, we have plans for an additional store in San Diego. We have been slow in looking for the best location. We want to keep our grassroots, local feel. Stay tuned for a spring 2014 second-store debut.❖
Skylar’s Home & Patio, 2840 State St., Carlsbad,
760-729-3100. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Thursday,
11 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday-Sunday.
