Pictured. Edward Gordon and David George, and their store ( below ) .
When Edward Gordon and David George, of Round Lake, met in Wisconsin six years ago, they had no idea that their relationship would end up blossoming into two partnerships: a personal one and a business one as well. They own a well-respected antiques business and showcase their wares in galleries at Volo Antique Mall II ( near the junction of Routes 12 and 120 in Volo ) and at the Blackhawk Antique Market in Milwaukee.
Shortly after the couple met, they attended an antique auction where they purchased a Heisey compote. They became very interested in the glassware made by the company ( Heisey Glass Company, Newark, Ohio—1896-1957 ) , which was a pioneer in the manufacture of high quality glass tableware for the American middle and upper classes. It introduced many styles, colors and decorations during its 62-year history. Today, the glassware is considered very collectible and, sometimes, very valuable. Edward and David usually have many pieces for sale in their galleries.
After the auction they started poking around in antique stores. They had been looking for a business that they could start together that would help them build their future and decided to jump wholeheartedly into the antique business. They both have a great sense of humor about it, as evidenced by their Latin motto—'Emptum ad tibi Cadere,' or, 'Shop 'til you drop!'
At this point, they also sell antique furniture and seem to have an 'eye' for great pieces. As a matter of fact, they usually buy pieces because they personally like them. Each piece is also 'home tested'—meaning they use it for a while—before it is taken to the stores.
Edward and David have an 'eye' for display, according to a press release. Their galleries contain beautiful furniture and glass, showcased in an uncluttered manner so that shoppers can really appreciate what is being offered.
The couple has amassed a large library of reference books on antiques and use them often to research the pieces that they offer. They also use the Internet for research. To them, accuracy is very important and they want their customers to be assured that they have correctly identified and described the antiques that they sell.
Edward Gordon was raised in Manistee, Mich., and came to Chicago in 1983 to be close to his son, who is now 24 years old and in the Navy. David George is from Buffalo, NY, and came to the area in 1987 because of a job transfer.
For more information: Volo Antique Malls 1, 2 and 3, ( 815 ) 344-6062; Edward Gordon and David George Antiques, ( 847 ) 345-0011.