Today we’d like to introduce you to Betsy Austin.
Hi Betsy, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I began Tres Bien Antiques in 2013 inspired by my up bringing with French immigrant grandparents and a home filled with beautiful European Antiques.Some of my earliest memories are tied to pieces that carried history , craftsmanship, and stories from another time and place.
What began as a love for traveling to Paris and the South of France slowly grew into something deeper.
Over the years that passion turned into a full-time business built around sourcing and curating pieces I love and connecting them with clients to use in their timeless interiors.
Today I ship 2 or 3 containers annually from Europe , sourcing items from France, Italy, Sweden, England, Belgium, Spain and Portugal. I still feel the same excitement discovering unique finds and having them become part of someone else’s story.
Most importantly the friendships I have made in my business, from clients to colleagues, have been such a blessing. I thank God everyday for allowing me this challenge and opportunity .
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?
Sourcing at the antique fairs in the South of France is not for the faint of heart. The languages , the crowds, the competition ( not to mention the summer heat) can be quite challenging. But the thrill of discovering those special pieces is worth every bit of the challenge. The joy of having my daughter source with me is the best! I have also enjoy the opportunity to travel with my husband and friends.
Then comes another challenge, setting up and running a two week show in Roundtop, Texas. I’m fortunate to exhibit at Blue Hills, one of the largest venues, but preparing for and selling is a major undertaking..Luckily I get help from Madeleine my daughter who is an interior designer, @madeleineaustininteriors I also have amazing show help from Tess Willams @eletdesign.co.
My daughter in law Kiko Austin has been a great help with the tech side and my website.
I am grateful to have a year-round home at MAI-Memorial Antiques and Interiors where Tres Bien Antiques is able to share these European finds with customers throughout the year.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
At the heart of my business is a simple philosophy: I am an antique importer. I stay true to sourcing authentic European antiques from the 17th through the 19th centuries, I don’t sell reproductions or newly manufactured pieces. Every piece I purchased has lived in another time and place.
My goal has been to find those one-of-a-kind item that may never surface again. Looking back over the years, so many remarkable pieces I’ve sourced have never pathed my crossed a second time. One of the greatest joys is seeing the creativity of designers and clients as they incorporate these antiques in their interiors. I am so excited when I see their faces light up on a purchase. Before I even began this job some of my first antiques I bought or inherited have a special place in my home today.
What would you say have been one of the most important lessons you’ve learned?
Ive learned to pace myself and ask for help when needed, especially during the show at Blue Hills in Roundtop, Texas and when buying in Europe.
The most important lesson I have learned is that running your own business can be all encompassing. It’s important for me to make time for the other things I enjoy including exercise, golf, mahjong , gardening, volunteering, spending time with family and friends , retreating , and especially being a grandma .
Pricing:
- $25-$15.000
Contact Info:
- Website: antiquesbytresbien
- Instagram: @tresbienantiques. @bluehillsroundtop. @mai_interiors_houston
- Facebook: tresbien antiques
