u/ag843

I’m always looking to expand my list of trade-only vendors and would love to hear everyone’s favorites.

I’m specifically interested in companies that truly protect the design community by selling exclusively through designers and not listing their products through online retailers or marketplaces. One of the biggest frustrations lately has been how easy it is for clients to reverse image search or use AI tools to identify products. While my contract clearly states that shopping my designs isn’t permitted, I’d much rather specify vendors that genuinely support the trade model.

I spend a lot of time building relationships with sales reps, visiting showrooms, and sourcing unique pieces, so I’m always excited to discover companies I haven’t come across yet.

I’m based in the U.S., so domestic vendors are especially appreciated, particularly with current tariffs and the advantages of custom manufacturing here. That said, I’d also love to hear about exceptional trade-only companies outside the U.S.

I’d love recommendations in any category.

Several of my favorite trade only vendors that I've had great experiences with are listed below:

- Charles Stewart / (semi) Custom Upholstery (amazing lead times, pricing and great quality)

- Jerry Pair / East Coast textile & furnishings distributor for many amazing brands

- Ainsworth Noah / Also East Coast textile & furnishings distributor

- BH Home, Inc / (fully) Custom Upholstery & Wood Furnishings based on the West Coast (The owner is so delightful to work with)

- Urban Electric / Lighting / available to the general public, however, only trade members can create custom finishes.

I’m restoring an 18th-century home and looking for the best sources for antique or high-quality reproduction Delft tiles to repair several original fireplace surrounds. Most of the existing Delft tiles are damaged or missing, and I’d like to replace them with tiles that are as historically accurate as possible.

I’d love to hear where preservationists, restorers, or collectors have had the best luck. I’m open to both genuine antique tiles and well-made reproductions, especially if they’re hand-painted or based on traditional 17th- and 18th-century Dutch designs.

I’m located in the U.S., but I’m happy to order internationally if the quality is worth it. Recommendations for dealers, manufacturers, architectural salvage companies, or auction houses would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks in advance!

Edit: I am a member of the design trade and can get access to trade only vendors as well.

Does anyone have any good Japan-based eBay sellers they recommend for Chanel resale? Looking for trusted vintage sellers. Thanks in advance!