The Wood Reserve Furniture Co. — Local services in Bradenton

I admit that I couldn't find much information about The Wood Reserve, so I was a bit concerned about buying a fairly expensive piece of furniture and paying the full amount upfront. I don't usually buy things that way, so I wanted to be sure this was a legitimate business. I contacted Ryan Bergeron, one of the co-owners, who replied the next day and politely answered all my questions.

I wanted to buy the narrow Amish Book Shelf, so Ryan guided me through the color choices and explained that each of these furniture pieces are custom made as they are ordered; that's why we can't expect a quick delivery. No problem. I own other Amish furniture, so I know these people do quality work instead of using cheap, look-alike veneers. Quality products require time.

I waited a couple months; then Ryan contacted me to tell me the bookshelf was ready to ship. It came to my house by UPS. I followed The Wood Reserve's directions not to sign for it until I opened the package and inspected it for shipping damage. (I'm glad the guy was patient.) It was in pristine condition and absolutely GORGEOUS!

The bookshelf comes in two parts that can be connected in the back by brackets. I had questions about the connecting parts that were included in the package, so I contacted Ryan again. He promptly emailed me again and even sent helpful photos. He suggested that I send photos.of my book shelf.

I decided that the two units stand securely without brackets, so I haven't added the hardware at this point. The bookshelf is now the focal point in a guest room, and it holds a collection of china figurines. I LOVE it, and several people have complimented me on it.

So, rest assured! This is a legitimate, fantastic company that is run by a very caring couple. Advice to buyers: Be patient. Take the time to inspect your item when it is delivered. Enjoy a product that has been handmade by real craftsmen!

P.S. I like the idea that they plant a tree with each order. They not only care about people; they care about the...

I have spent the last 8 months redecorating my home. I have purchased 14 pieces from The Wood Reserve. Pieces for living room, entry room, office, dining room and bedrooms. I have 4 different styles but chose the same wood type and stain. I spread out the ordering and have received pieces over the past 5 months. These have come from different shops and been delivered white glove by different carriers those shops use. After this long story, the ending is I'm thrilled!!! Every piece is a work of a master and the handling of the ordering, communication and delivery couldn't have been better. Prepare yourself to wait but it is very worth it. I have loved working with Ryan in the office and cannot recommend The Wood Reserve and it's craftsmen highly enough. Even though my home is pretty well done, I'm sure I'll be looking back now and then for future special pieces I can't live without. I'd give them 10...

UPDATE: Ryan emailed me back and said the reason he'd not responded was two-fold--they are short staffed and my emails went into a spam/junk file. Completely understandable.

He refunded me $10, which he didn't have to do. It was a very gracious gesture. The pen is great quality. Thanks Ryan for getting back with me.

ORIGINAL POST: The experience was fine. Waited a while for the pen, but that’s understandable because I ordered it 4 days before Christmas. The only criticism is this—do better in communicating with your customers. Hire a secretary/customer service worker that can answer emails (I sent two that never got responded to) and respond to Google reviews or Yelp. Not sure the reasoning for no phone number.

The pen is great. Using it in my office right...