Still Relevant: An Update to a Paul Downs Vintage Blog

Posted on Aug 10, 2016 in General

Paul recently received a letter offering kudos for his NYT You’re the Boss blog postings about credit card compliance. The reader found the postings were still relevant:

In light of this letter, we thought we’d connect you back to those vintage blogs from Paul’s work at the New York Times.

March 2013 – What you need to know about credit card processing

March 2013 – My search for reasonable and understandable credit card processing

March 2013 – Choosing a credit card processor and drawing some conclusions

April 2013 – Processing credit cards and anger

These are the posts that the letter writer thought were very relevant to his situation. If you were wondering how it all ended up, here’s part of Paul’s response to that small business owner.

If you haven’t already, please look through our gallery of custom conference tables. You can choose any of these designs as a starting point for your project, or you can submit your own designs. For help designing your custom conference project, contact us today at 610-239-0142 or info@pauldowns.com.

To order a copy of Paul’s book, Boss Life, visit your local bookseller or Amazon.com

The most professional company we worked with throughout our construction job. They were engaged throughout the process [and] presented multiple options every step of the way. They were extremely responsive and helpful. Quality of work was incredible. Highly, highly recommend them.

Tim DeLorenzoPlast O Matic

The process of getting an idea to seeing the idea come to life is awesome. The Paul Downs team is great in relaying information and walking you through the process of getting exactly what you want and helping you fill your space.

Jessica WilliamsGreat Lakes Coca Cola

What they were able to come up with is nothing short of amazing! The product itself is top-notch, and they also help you understand each step in the process. Highly professional and the finished product is exactly what they say it will be. Everyone on our staff loves the table!

Mitch ThompsonVenture Resorts

It was an incredible experience from the start. After two conversations, [they] had a design in my hands that was spot on. Words can’t express how great the room came out. Everyone here is ecstatic. The first words out of their mouths when they see the room is ‘Wow!’

Jeff StageRCN Telecom

Paul Downs delivered on every promise. The workmanship was outstanding and the process was seamless. We are very pleased with the end product and would not hesitate to use them again!

David MurphyAnkle & Foot Associates

This particular conference room was the last room our customers wanted to use for their meetings. The old table wasn’t functional and the look and feel of the room didn’t seem to facilitate conversations. Once the new table was installed, this meeting room turned into our most requested space.

Lynn DriscollLockheed Martin

The table arrived and it is beautiful. It is exactly what we were hoping for. We are actually going to be having our first meeting at it this morning and I am looking forward to hearing everyone’s reactions.

Joyce A. EnrightRed Bull

Client List

Join Our Newsletter

[gravityform id="6" title="false" description="false"]

<div class='gf_browser_chrome gform_wrapper form-home_wrapper recap-btn_wrapper' id='gform_wrapper_6' ><form method='post' enctype='multipart/form-data' id='gform_6' class='form-home recap-btn' action='/blog/category-general/update-to-a-paul-downs-vintage-blog/'> <div class='gform_body'><ul id='gform_fields_6' class='gform_fields top_label form_sublabel_below description_below'><li id='field_6_1' class='gfield gf_left_half one-half gfield_contains_required field_sublabel_below field_description_below hidden_label gfield_visibility_visible' ><label class='gfield_label' for='input_6_1' >First Name<span class='gfield_required'>*</span></label><div class='ginput_container ginput_container_text'><input name='input_1' id='input_6_1' type='text' value='' class='medium' placeholder='First Name' aria-required="true" aria-invalid="false" /></div></li><li id='field_6_7' class='gfield gf_left_half one-half right gfield_contains_required field_sublabel_below field_description_below hidden_label gfield_visibility_visible' ><label class='gfield_label' for='input_6_7' >Last Name<span class='gfield_required'>*</span></label><div class='ginput_container ginput_container_text'><input name='input_7' id='input_6_7' type='text' value='' class='medium' placeholder='Last Name' aria-required="true" aria-invalid="false" /></div></li><li id='field_6_2' class='gfield gf_left_half one-half gfield_contains_required field_sublabel_below field_description_below hidden_label gfield_visibility_visible' ><label class='gfield_label' for='input_6_2' >Email<span class='gfield_required'>*</span></label><div class='ginput_container ginput_container_email'> <input name='input_2' id='input_6_2' type='text' value='' class='medium' placeholder='Email' aria-required="true" aria-invalid="false" /> </div></li><li id='field_6_3' class='gfield gf_left_half one-half right gfield_contains_required field_sublabel_below field_description_below hidden_label gfield_visibility_visible' ><label class='gfield_label' for='input_6_3' >Phone Number<span class='gfield_required'>*</span></label><div class='ginput_container ginput_container_phone'><input name='input_3' id='input_6_3' type='text' value='' class='medium' placeholder='Phone Number' aria-required="true" aria-invalid="false" /></div></li><li id='field_6_9' class='gfield gf_left_half one-half field_sublabel_below field_description_below gfield_visibility_visible' ><label class='gfield_label' >Best Time to Get in Touch</label><div class='ginput_container ginput_container_checkbox'><ul class='gfield_checkbox' id='input_6_9'><li class='gchoice_6_9_1'> <input name='input_9.1' type='checkbox' value='Morning' id='choice_6_9_1' /> <label for='choice_6_9_1' id='label_6_9_1'>Morning</label> </li><li class='gchoice_6_9_2'> <input name='input_9.2' type='checkbox' value='Afternoon' id='choice_6_9_2' /> <label for='choice_6_9_2' id='label_6_9_2'>Afternoon</label> </li></ul></div></li><li id='field_6_10' class='gfield gf_left_half one-half right field_sublabel_below field_description_below gfield_visibility_visible' ><label class='gfield_label' >Preferred Contact Method</label><div class='ginput_container ginput_container_checkbox'><ul class='gfield_checkbox' id='input_6_10'><li class='gchoice_6_10_1'> <input name='input_10.1' type='checkbox' value='Email' id='choice_6_10_1' /> <label for='choice_6_10_1' id='label_6_10_1'>Email</label> </li><li class='gchoice_6_10_2'> <input name='input_10.2' type='checkbox' value='Phone' id='choice_6_10_2' /> <label for='choice_6_10_2' id='label_6_10_2'>Phone</label> </li></ul></div></li><li id='field_6_11' class='gfield one-half right gfield_html gfield_html_formatted gfield_no_follows_desc field_sublabel_below field_description_below gfield_visibility_visible' > </li><li id='field_6_5' class='gfield gform_hidden field_sublabel_below field_description_below gfield_visibility_visible' ><input name='input_5' id='input_6_5' type='hidden' class='gform_hidden' aria-invalid="false" value='' /></li><li id='field_6_6' class='gfield gform_hidden field_sublabel_below field_description_below gfield_visibility_visible' ><input name='input_6' id='input_6_6' type='hidden' class='gform_hidden' aria-invalid="false" value='' /></li><li id='field_6_12' class='gfield gform_validation_container field_sublabel_below field_description_below gfield_visibility_visible' ><label class='gfield_label' for='input_6_12' >Comments</label><div class='ginput_container'><input name='input_12' id='input_6_12' type='text' value='' /></div><div class='gfield_description' id='gfield_description__12'>This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.</div></li> </ul></div> <div class='gform_footer top_label'> <input type='submit' id='gform_submit_button_6' class='gform_button button' value='Submit' onclick='if(window["gf_submitting_6"]){return false;} window["gf_submitting_6"]=true; ' onkeypress='if( event.keyCode == 13 ){ if(window["gf_submitting_6"]){return false;} window["gf_submitting_6"]=true; jQuery("#gform_6").trigger("submit",[true]); }' /> <input type='hidden' class='gform_hidden' name='is_submit_6' value='1' /> <input type='hidden' class='gform_hidden' name='gform_submit' value='6' /> <input type='hidden' class='gform_hidden' name='gform_unique_id' value='' /> <input type='hidden' class='gform_hidden' name='state_6' value='WyJbXSIsIjAyNGIwMWI4MjhmMmMyMzRhNjRkNDBkNWVhMDM0Nzg1Il0=' /> <input type='hidden' class='gform_hidden' name='gform_target_page_number_6' id='gform_target_page_number_6' value='0' /> <input type='hidden' class='gform_hidden' name='gform_source_page_number_6' id='gform_source_page_number_6' value='1' /> <input type='hidden' name='gform_field_values' value='' /> </div> </form> </div><script type='text/javascript'> jQuery(document).bind('gform_post_render', function(event, formId, currentPage){if(formId == 6) {if(typeof Placeholders != 'undefined'){ Placeholders.enable(); }jQuery('#input_6_3').mask('(999) 999-9999').bind('keypress', function(e){if(e.which == 13){jQuery(this).blur();} } );} } );jQuery(document).bind('gform_post_conditional_logic', function(event, formId, fields, isInit){} );</script><script type='text/javascript'> jQuery(document).ready(function(){jQuery(document).trigger('gform_post_render', [6, 1]) } ); </script>

Google Rating

5.0

Based on 67 reviews

Paul Downs Cabinetmakers

5.0

Doug Burton

13:49 12 Jan 21

This was the very best customer experience I have every had with a custom conference table manufacturer in my 35 years of business in this industry.From the design to the interaction with Paul Downs with the end user to the installation; it was a 10 out of 10 in every way.The end user is even more pleased with the end result than we are!

Barbara Winnick

18:49 04 Jan 21

This has been a wonderful experience. My table is beautiful and everyone was very helpful.

Dan Jacobs

16:09 04 Jan 21

We would certainly recommend Paul Downs for not only the beautiful conference table and credenza they made for our church but willingness to help us thru the process and patience as we made decisions. Great organization.

Chuck Mosser

22:35 24 Nov 20

Always great working with Paul Downs and their superb craftsmen. Our second conference room table complements our first one that was designed five years ago. High marks from the start of the project to final delivery and assembly at our new offices. Chuck Mosser, EVP/CFO @ IntelliGenesis, LLC

John Pfister

18:00 27 Oct 20

Nate did a wonderful job designing our conference room table incorporating our logo. He was easy to work with and patient when we went through different variations. The final product is absolutely stunning and will be proudly used in my main conference room for years to come.

Charles Johnson

19:09 21 Sep 20

Hard to express how satisfied we are, not only with the product which is absolutely beautiful but this is the way business should be done! If more companies in the U.S. would provide "real service" like Paul Downs does we would not even consider buying from another country. Every step of the way was a pleasure and extremely professional. Other companies should take note of the customer service and relationship development from Paul Downs. 5 STARS PLUS!

Teri Ord

21:14 27 Aug 20

Paul Downs made a custom dining room table and 8 chairs for me years ago. I still love it, and it is in wonderful shape and just as beautiful as when I first bought it. He worked with me to design exactly what I wanted and even went on his own to a furniture shop to see a table that I liked. He designed one that was 10 times better- more solid and stable, more beautiful and with leaves that just magically slid out when I needed a bigger table! I have to say it was one of the best business experiences I have had with anyone. He was patient, nice, flexible and most important, a straight shooter who did what he said. His talent and high standards are obvious once you start working with him. He is a true artist with wood!

Jennifer Sterner

12:21 18 Aug 20

Top Notch Company! Excellent customer service and genuinely good craftsmanship. Initially they crafted a beautiful custom table and matching credenza for our boardroom. A year later we asked for another custom table to match the large table and catering credenza that would house a small fridge. They knocked it out of the park on both projects....completely exceeded our expectations! The pictures do no justice to these beautiful pieces. I highly recommend Paul Downs Cabinetmakers if you're looking for quality, custom work.

R S

12:30 13 Aug 20

Paul Downs Cabinetmakers exceeded our expectations, from the very beginning of the design process all the way through to the installation of our conference table and credenza. Great communication and are engaged each step during the process of design, production and installation. We could not be happier with the entire experience.Property Manager Brethren Mutual Insurance Company

Brent Barkley

23:45 27 Jul 20

Paul Downs delivered a beautiful and well constructed table. They maintained great communication throughout our project and made sure we got exactly what we wanted. Our installation was professional and quick. Even during the Covid pandemic, Paul Downs stayed in contact and kept our project moving. We are excited to gather around our table for many years to come.

Leah Oliver

17:16 15 Jun 20

We were looking for a modular elegant looking board for our boardroom and were challenged with finding a table that would fit in our rectangular space. The whole process start to finish was professional and Paul Downs staff were accommodating and provided options for our needs. We ended up purchasing the board table, presenter table and two small movable tables. The logo was an option that was suggested by the designer and it was a great addition. The table was assembled by our staff and the documentation provided to us was spot on. The quality of the table and the workmanship is meticulous and you can tell that there was a lot of thought and care put into the design and construction of the table.

Cameron Williams

16:58 31 Mar 20

A fantastic place to work if you are given the opportunity. Paul has assembled a group of hard working, intelligent, and passionate group of people to deliver a fantastic and unmatched end product. As an engineer, I was offered competitive pay and opportunity to work on exciting projects with diverse challenges. This job takes place in a fast paced manufacturing environment where you will succeed if you have a good attention to detail and are as committed to the end product as everyone else that works here.

Joshua Bernstein

14:43 04 Feb 20

To get the idea what Paul Downs is about, you can read Paul's excellent book 'Boss Life' about running a small business or you can take a look at his archive of NY Times columns, you can also ask to discuses their operating manifesto on Culture, Craftsmanship & Prosperity.But seeing his shop in action is really something to witness.In a high-tech sales and design studio, engineers interface virtually with clients around the world designing one of a kind conference tables in real time. After their work has been finalized it goes onto the shop floor where artisan woodworkers and craftsmen use a process of continuous improvement to make custom conference tables and some other furniture pieces.Everything about this shop screams perfectionism. The floors are swept, every stack of vernier or wood board is organized. Work that is better done by machine is done with CNC and other woodworking technology. Finished pieces are assembled and inspected prior to shipping These guys do their work as true craft and design professionals.The final tables can be seen on their website and social media are second to none.This is a high end process for businesses who are ready to invest in the look of a killer conference room that the Paul Downs team can bring to reality.

Matt Boucree

14:30 20 Sep 19

My experience with purchasing our conference room table from Paul Downs was excellent. They assisted us throughout the process, incorporated our changes, and stored the table until we were ready for delivery. The quality is excellent. Delivery and set up was perfect. Very satisfied.

Joseph Mitchell

17:10 09 Sep 19

Great experience from start to finish. Great service and we ended up with an amazing table and desk for our conference room. We gave them our vision and they made it happen. Thank you!

Tim Delorenzo

19:13 12 Aug 19

The most professional company we worked with throughout our construction job. Nate (design) and Andy (project management) were our main contacts. They were engaged throughout the process. They presented multiple options every step of the way. They were extremely responsive and helpful. They delivered on time. Quality of work was incredible. We'll be using them again for other custom furniture needs coming up. Highly, highly recommend them.

Louann Thornton

02:44 23 Jul 19

I am an architect and interior designer and was seeking a custom made conference table for my husband’s company. I am very particular and highly appreciate quality craftsmanship. Paul Downs made the entire process seamless and efficient, which is important to me...and I am sure to many. Everything was pinpointed and accurate so that there was no question that all my wishes were addressed. The table is exquisite and the quality is top notch. I would definitely recommend them to anyone. Now if I could only convince them to branch into private residential tables!

Jeff Loven

14:15 18 Jul 19

Great quality work on our board room table. Very professional.

Mary Cleveland

13:27 18 Jul 19

Paul Downs Cabinetmakers were recommended to build a conference room table for our firm. The table needed to fit into our new conference room. Every step in the process was mapped out and double checked by Paul Downs so the end product not only fit but was a magnificent object of beauty. Their craftsmanship exceeded our expectations and we are delighted to show our clients the end product.

GJ Hin

16:08 17 Jul 19

From the design process to the delivery, everything was flawless. Our company conference room table gets tons of compliments.

Bill Shaw

17:01 15 Jul 19

We needed a larger conference room table with lots of technology added so it could also function as our Emergency Operations Center. Our Paul Downs Design Engineer showed us a host of options, talked us through the pro and cons and really made the process easy. Now we have the table. It's exactly as designed and expected. Thank you for a great experience. And it was affordable.

Nolan Guagenti

14:44 15 Jul 19

Paul, did a great job in a timely fashion and I would use him again for any future cabinet needs.

Samuel Saxton

14:53 10 Jul 19

We love our table. It sits in our companies largest and most used room. When you walk in the table exceeds the look and feel we wanted in our board room. The process of designing and installation went smoothly and easily. Thanks!!!

Ugo Chiulli

00:31 10 Jul 19

I have received TOP NOTCH service at every stage of my project.My project is likely one they are not aiming to get (two flip up 3'x6' custom conference room tables) but they certainly made me feel like it was a BIG deal to them.The attention I received at every stage was great. Small questions were welcomed and answered to my satisfaction.Fantastic company to work with!

Ginny Wooten

20:26 09 Jul 19

My law office needed a fabulous new conference room table. One large enough to hold a room of attorneys, and one beautiful enough to fit in with our historical office. Paul Downs delivered and we could not be happier - with the process AND the outcome!

Jessica Williams

12:17 05 Jul 19

The process of getting an idea to seeing the idea come to life is awesome. The Paul Downs team is great in relaying information and walking you through the process of getting exactly what you want and helping you fill your space.

Joe Romano

17:30 02 Jul 19

Very good experience. Would use again.

B Lynch

15:10 01 Jul 19

The Paul Downs team did a fantastic job of turning my idea into reality. I'd been looking for the "right" conference table for 3 years when I found Paul Downs Cabinetmakers on the internet. After a brief conversation and a design consultation, they provided renderings for approval and then produced a beautiful conference table and credenza. Their work is first rate. I recommend them without reservation.

Tom Yshoc

16:14 27 Jun 19

Great people to work with. Excellent quality product. Delivery and installation was remarkable. Will definitely use their service again.

Ted Lorenz

23:09 17 Jun 19

From start to finish a great experience. We could not be happier with our custom conference table.

Renae Amaya-Jolly

20:13 05 Jun 19

Paul Downs Delivered!! Roy Law Group worked with Paul Downs' designers and they came up with a conference room table, credenza, reception desk and reception side table for our new office suite. The pieces are even more beautiful than the animated designs. Also, the entire group at Paul Downs is very professional and responsive.We had some hesitation about working with someone in Bridgeport, PA when we are in Portland, OR but they assured us that they ship all over the United States.If you want custom made furniture for your office that really emphasizes your brand, Paul Downs delivers.

Erin Leydon Plummer

19:42 30 May 19

After researching custom furniture makers online we discovered Paul Downs. A few years passed between introducing our concept and moving into our new office space where we engaged Paul Downs and worked together. Our designer, Nathan, absolutely nailed it - he listened intently, researched our company independently, and asked the right questions to complete our vision. The custom, 16-person round table is an absolute work of art, along with the other pieces we purchased. Thanks for making this process personal, resulting in timeless pieces for our new corporate office!

Pattiann Peneno

12:05 01 Mar 19

beautiful quality and amazing people to work with

Brett Rusher

17:13 13 Dec 18

Out first conference table, looks exactly how it was presented to us, very easy to install, great working with them through the entire process. They really work to give you what you want.

Brian Marcks

14:27 11 Oct 18

They produce magnificent residential and commercial furniture. We built a new facility and looked for our conference room to be a focal point of our new project. We are proud of the work done on our new conference table and credenza. Everyone who take a tour has made a comment on how beautiful the table is they do great work in a timely manner. Our thanks to the team at Paul Downs.

Bryce Ewing

20:53 10 May 18

Excellent quality tables, they took a concept image and made it a reality.

Maschka Riedy Ries & Frentz Law Firm

21:31 23 Apr 18

We had a beautiful 14-foot custom table made for our largest conference room a year ago. The finish is still as beautiful as the day we got it! We love the brushed aluminum inlay! We consistently receive complements on the table. Thank you everyone at Paul Downs!

See all reviews Write a review

×