Caye Sturtridge of Jalan-Jalan

The first time I met Caye Sturtridge of Jalan Jalan, I was immediately struck by her beauty and sense of style: sort of international diva meets girl next door.  Then, I went to one of the openings for Jalan-Jalan.  Such openings occur a couple of times a year when a container arrives, from Indonesia, filled with antique furniture, textiles and sculptures.  Walking through the doors of the store is transforming…like entering a magical place filled with hidden treasures from all over the world.

Give me a brief description of your background and career.

I was one of the founding students of O’More College of Design.  I have always been a buyer and seller of unique things: from operating an antique booth to going to auctions and helping friends find things for their homes.  After a holiday to Bali, I began a cottage industry selling Balinese silver, which I adore.  Then, I married Richard.  In order to furnish our house, we filled a small container with Indonesian antiques.  We kept a small amount and sold the rest in a matter of hours.  We decided to try again in six months and filled a larger container.  Thus, Jalan-Jalan was born.

What does Jalan-Jalan mean?

It means “just looking” or “just going for a walk”.  It reflects the atmosphere of the store, one that is casual and welcoming.  We have a library to encourage our customers to read about the history and tradition of Indonesian antiques and textiles.

What do you consider unique about Jalan-Jalan?

Our business was built out of love for the Indonesian culture and people.  Both Richard and I are self educated; we have learned about the value and authenticity of the antiques from traveling all over the country.  Mistakenly, people refer to our furniture as Asian – that’s just not so.  Because Indonesia was on the spice route, and colonized by the Dutch, the furniture reflects a variety of different influences.  The furniture is made of antique teak that is hundreds and hundreds of years old.  This teak is rare and becoming difficult to find. Every piece of furniture is handmade with gorgeous craftsmanship.  Our partner in Indonesia has access to items from all over the islands and compared to what we used to find, the supply of teak is diminishing.

Tell me about a trend you see in your business.

We have created a line we call Ancient-Modern for those buyers wanting the authenticity and warmth of antiques but with contemporary lines.  We use ancient woods and incorporate contemporary steel accents.  The result is absolutely gorgeous.  We find it looks fantastic in lofts and new homes.

Name an early mentor in your life.

My mother taught me to get what you want, never give up and STAY OUT OF DEBT.  Her wisdom has allowed me to be successful.

What advice would you give first time furniture buyers?

Live in your space and get to know it.  Buy what you can afford even a small piece that is quality.  We always let our customer trade up since everything we sell will always appreciate.

Give us one of your personal extravagances that just makes you happy.

My farm in Jamaica.  It is an organic farm in Silver Springs with seven fresh water springs. Quite bohemian.

Name three things you can not live without (exclude family and friends).

• The Predators (season ticket holder since the beginning)
• Yoga and hiking Radnor Lake
• Traveling to 3rd world countries

Jalan-Jalan
2503 Winford Avenue
Nashville, TN  37211
615-780-2600

Call for an appointment.

http://www.jalanjalanantiques.com

Thank you,

Elizabeth and Liza

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