Tourist News, June 24, 2004
Southern Maine's Leading Arts and Entertainment Publication
By Carol Standish

Kate Madison Antiques and Furniture doesn't fit the ordinary growth pattern of new businesses — having to survive for five years to declare success. The Store opened in the Kennebunk Lower Village just over a year ago and is "doing really well," according to Jamie Meighan, who started the business with her partner, Jeffrey O'Brien.

She attributes her almost immediate success first and foremost to the quality and appeal of her product, reproduction French Country Furniture. "It has a farmhouse ambiance with a contemporary feel," she says.

Every piece is hand-built in Quebec, Canada, by skilled furniture builders and finishers who use traditional construction methods and materials, newly milled, as well as old wood boards.

More than 50 pieces are currently offered in the Madison line and more are being introduced. Hutches, sideboards, kitchen islands, chairs, dining and occasional tables and beds fill the shop. Among the most ingenious are the entertainment centers and office "armoires."

These handsomely constructed standing cupboards aren't just for clothing anymore. Open the optional pocket doors and the space inside neatly accomodates a TV, DVD and stereo equipment or your computer and keyboard tray and storage.

"It's furniture that looks antique but meets modern needs," says Meighan.

The pieces are finished with milk paint — a finish that dates back to ancient Egypt and was used in Colonial America, which combines milk protein, quicklime and earth pigments. The hues (13 are offered by Madison) gain color and character over time. The furniture is unpretenious, sturdy and versatile.

"The designs are simple enough to fit into any style decor," says Meighan, and customizing is always an option.

The shop also carries decorative home accessories to complement its unique furniture. Brightly striped down pillows, rugs, 19th century architectural window mirrors, antique porcelain and glass and silk flowers provide a colorful counterpoint to the big shapes and warm wood.

Meighan also attributes the success of her business to its website, which she established before she opened the store. With a background in graphics and journalism, Meighan spent several years as a creative director for several web companies.

Although the high-tech marketing approach may seem unlikely for a company selling furniture style first made popular in the mid-19th century, it was a logical first step for Meighan.

"The web allows you to be more interactive and reach people you'd never have access to with a local business," she says. Kate Madison ships all over the country from a warehouse facility in Boston.

Meighan also chose the location of Kennebunkport with an eye toward optimum exposure. Having summered in Biddeford Pool, it was easy to appreciate the real estate boom in Kennebunkport and southern Maine.

"When people buy new homes, they buy furniture," she says. (And the shop space is big enough to accommodate large pieces, currently on display is a custom 13-foot x 42" harvest table.) And then there is the tourist trade. "Believe it or not tourist do buy furniture on vacation -- and have us ship it directly to their home."

Kate Madison, Open Year-Round, is located behind The Yellow House on Western Ave., Rte. 9. Store Hours are 10am — 5pm, 7 days a week, from May to December; shorter hours during the winter. For more information, (207) 985-8989 or visit the website at www.KateMadison.com