OUR JOURNEY
For more than four decades, the name David Francis has been synonymous with acclaimed designer furniture collections that make a bold statement in any space. Our expertise lies in crafting environmentally conscious pieces using materials like rattan, crushed bamboo, and sustainably sourced woods. Through innovative furniture design, we infuse traditional materials with artistry, meticulous detail, and a fresh perspective.
CONTINUING THE TRADITION
After the founders of David Francis Furniture, David and Theresa (Terry) Swett, retired in 2020, a new chapter unfolded. Catherine Blüm, daughter of David and Terry, and Tim Ledford, production manager for over 25 years, joined forces to carry forward the legacy established by David and Terry. Collaboratively, they established David Francis, LLC, a partnership that remains dedicated to innovation and the creation of top-tier furniture for the industry. Drawing upon their cumulative years of experience, fortified by their business acumen and creative talents, David Francis, LLC stands as a testament to a family's enduring commitment to the art of furniture-making.
Continuing the Legacy of David Francis Furniture
David inspecting raw cane material in the drying process.
Terry & Catherine evaluating a furniture sample.
Tim with an overseas factory manager reviewing raw materials.
Tim hand-applying finish on a dining chair.
David & Catherine at the David Francis warehouse.
Catherine's upbringing was a deep dive into the realm of furniture and design. At the age of 13, Catherine became an avid world traveler accompanying David and Terry on buying trips to Southeast Asia. Her daily surroundings were filled with raw materials, furniture sketches, mounds of cushions, and leisurely walks through the finishing department, nurturing her curiosity and passion. In her teenage years, she was surrounded by the intricate design process, material curation, and the transformative journey of manifesting furniture concepts and sketches into tangible creations alongside her parents.
Following her graduation from the University of Florida, Catherine returned to Vero Beach, where her destined path with David Francis Furniture awaited. After spending 5 years learning all aspects of operations, which included working in the shipping department, David’s encouragement prompted her to venture into furniture design. Infusing youthful vibrancy into the brand, Catherine’s first design debuted in 2012. Her inventive designs quickly gained traction, marking the inception of her career as a furniture designer. Her innovative designs have earned her recognition within the realm of rattan furniture design.
Blessed with her mother's discerning design sensibilities and guided by Terry's mastery in materials, Catherine and Terry collaboratively curated the array of fabrics and finishes offered by David Francis Furniture. Fueled by a thirst for knowledge and nurtured by her parents' steadfast dedication, she gained a profound comprehension of both the artistic and engineering of furniture production. Her parents, acting as mentors, shaped Catherine into an empowered and accomplished businesswoman.
Today, Catherine stands at the helm of the family business, embracing the meticulously crafted legacy her parents established while infusing her distinct creative essence. Her formidable business acumen and boundless imagination have propelled David Francis, LLC to new heights, a feat that fills her parents with pride. Catherine envisions the perpetuation of the David Francis legacy and hopes that one day her children will join the team and continue the legacy.
Beyond her professional commitments, Catherine revels in cherished moments with her husband and two children, be it through travel escapades, fishing expeditions, or soccer games. Her exuberant nature and boundless creativity inspire an atmosphere of joy at David Francis, LLC.
Tim Ledford's journey to David Francis Furniture embarked over two decades earlier, during his teenage years when he dedicated himself to restoring all types of antique furniture at a local restoration shop under the mentorship of Mr. Hanson. For the first two years, Tim was not permitted to interact with the furniture, until a pivotal moment when Mr. Hanson gave him an opportunity that evoked an exclamation of "This is the best job ever!". This enthusiastic response, fueled by Tim's innate curiosity and hidden talents, didn't go unnoticed. Mr. Hanson soon discovered Tim’s artistic capabilities and attention to detail and he quickly took Tim under his wing to explore and expand upon his talent.
As time flowed, Tim meticulously refined his skills, evolving into an accomplished furniture finisher, ingenious carpenter, and respected artisan, gaining recognition that echoed beyond the confines of the Treasure Coast. Encouraged by his wife's support, he embraced the limelight and opened his own finishing shop, further solidifying his reputation.
As the David Francis Furniture brand began to grow, David knew they needed to bring finishing in-house and they needed an expert to lead a production team. David and Terry had learned about Tim’s reputation and sought out his expertise. David and Tim had an immediate connection and soon after the initial meeting between David and Tim, Tim transitioned into his role at David Francis Furniture as production manager. The seamless fusion of Tim's extensive experience enabled him to lead the company's manufacturing process for well over a quarter-century. Driven by his curiosity, Tim delved into the realm of creating furniture designs, resulting in award-winning creations that encapsulated his fervor for furniture and its intricate craftsmanship. His expertise extended to creating unique formulas for hand-applied finishes that, to this day, continue to define each and every David Francis piece of furniture.
Away from David Francis, Tim finds solace in the art of restoring hot rods, immersing himself in every stage, from construction to the application of vibrant automotive coatings. His boundless creative spirit is palpable in every endeavor he undertakes. The internal comments at David Francis are that if Tim cannot repair it or find the solution, it cannot be done! Tim is truly a one-of-a-kind artist.