Jeff Olson’s career in the furniture industry began in his garage. While that’s not the typical starting point for a furniture store owner, it was this experience that led him to offering fantastic deals to Thurston County residents this weekend.
After selling furniture via craigslist, Olson opened Hawks Prairie Home Furnishings in 2008. “I am a believer in going where doors open for you,” explains Olson reflecting on how he jumped at the opportunity to rent a vacant building.
At the time, the building owners were desperate for a tenant at their Martin Way retail space. They offered Olson a sweet deal. “I figured I had just rented myself a big garage at a discounted rate for a year,” he says, figuring that he would continue selling odds and ends and closeouts to online buyers. “I thought that I would keep my business in this location until the rental rates started adjusting to the actual market.”
Fast-forward six years and Olson’s business is in the same location at 8221 Martin Way East in Lacey. He’s added three delivery trucks, an off-site warehouse and 12 employees. “We’ve really grown into a legitimate business,” says Olson proudly.
With more than $1.8 million dollars in furniture in stock, it was time for Olson to clearance some items.
“We have a surplus of furniture,” comments Olson who handles all of the furniture buying. “Sometimes I go a little crazy.”
After tossing out the idea to add another warehouse, Olson opted to rent a 20,000 square foot warehouse space for a special sale. On Friday, July 4 through Sunday, July 6, Hawks Prairie Home Furnishings is hosting a warehouse sale.
Located across from Shipwreck Beads, the warehouse space is packed with furniture at all different price points and styles. Olson mentions bedroom sets right along with scratch and dent sofas starting at $49.
Besides surplus items purchased specifically for the store, Olson worked with his manufacturers to get good deals on overstocks.
“We have such a wide variety of items in the warehouse sale,” he adds. For example, customers can find $29 nightstands, brand new and still in the box. Or, check out a leather sofa and love seat, originally priced at $8,000, but now on clearance for half price.
“We don’t want to move anything back to the store,” notes Olson. “I’ve priced everything to sell.”
The expansive list of furniture items will suit any budget.
Olson credits his wife, Stevie, with helping him expand the business. Stevie is no stranger to the small business world. She recently opened her own business, LOLA Lifestyle Boutique in downtown Olympia.
Delivery options are available. Customers are welcome to pay with cash or credit. More items, sales and flexible buying options are available in the store, but Olson stresses that the unique deals are at the warehouse this weekend.
Hawks Prairie Home Furnishings
Warehouse Sale
8535 Commerce Place Drive NE in Lacey
Friday, July 4 and Saturday, July 5 from 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Sunday, July 6 from 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Store Location:
8221 Martin Way East in Lacey
360-455-8845
