Jake Baer, CEO of Newel antiques, is the secret force behind your favorite movies, TV shows, and even musicals. You heard right- this Maker Monday, I sat down with Hollywood’s principal antique dealer, who bases his business out of Long Island. A hybrid of dealer and gallery; Newel provides props to films like The Greatest Showman, John Wick, and most impressively, Saturday Night Live, whose set designers rely on Baer’s collection for their weekly tapings. The fourth-generation owner of Newel gives us a glimpse into his daily routines.
Andrew Joseph – What’s your favorite time of day?
Jake Baer – My favorite time of the day is 7:30 AM (when I get to work). Nothing makes me feel more excited than opening up the doors to Long Island City Warehouse. I normally come into every with a new challenge or goal in mind and this is the time I start tackling it.
Andrew – What’s your current TV obsession?
Jake – Saturday Night Live! Really love the show, and it’s so cool seeing my pieces used in a live setting.
Andrew – What’s your biggest fear in life?
Jake – Not trying my best.
Andrew – Vintage or new?
Jake – Vintage all day! I do love to mix it all up though.
Andrew – How would you define your work in three words?
Jake – Quality, Eclectic, Trustworthy
Andrew – Best advice you’d give your teenage self?
Jake – Be passionate and focus on your goals. It’s always important to trust the process and take the right steps.
Andrew – Best way to take a rest/decompress?
Jake – Sleep.
Andrew – Best gift you’ve ever given?
Jake – A decoupage piece of art my mother made. It was cut-outs of all of my closest friends and family. Always reminds me how thankful I am to have such loving family and friends.
Andrew – What’s your favorite board game?
Jake – Chess.
Andrew – Who is your ideal client?
Jake – Someone who wants to learn and explore. I love when clients run around the warehouse and find all the treasures in Newel.
Andrew – If you made a documentary, what would it be about?
Jake – Day in the life of a Set Designer. (I love seeing them work and create these sets for movies and tv shows)
Andrew – What would you like to be remembered for?
Jake – For helping talented people create their dreams. Whether you’re a set decorator or an Interior designer, I want to support both communities. I just love helping talented people.
About Newel | For four generations, Newel has inspired international collectors and designers with one of the most extensive decorative and fine arts galleries in the world.
A family business since 1939, Newel’s roots are firmly planted in New York, where they spent their earliest days furnishing some of Broadway’s most fabled productions. Today, they continue the tradition as the world’s premier decorative arts resource for distinguished private collectors and industry-leading designers.
ABOUT ANDREW JOSEPH | Andrew Joseph’s passion for design and rich journalistic history led to the launch of his boutique PR firm in 2012. Prior to enjoying the successes of Andrew Joseph PR, Andrew honed his editorial skills at Vanity Fair and Allure. This experience, as well as the strong network of contacts developed over the years in public relations, brings a valuable edge to his new role as contributing editor. Let the musing begin.
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