Laura J. Henkle-Sauer has led an adventurous life that has taken her from her native Ohio to living in Germany, around the US (including a rugged cabin in the Colorado mountains) and, for the last several years, here in Berks. While her studies and travels have provided her many unique experiences, she never lost a childhood passion for beautiful tableware that was inspired by her mother. In fact, she inherited her mom’s talent for throwing memorable (and gorgeous) parties to such a degree that it has turned into a business, Vintage Lace and Table in St. Lawrence. When she’s not running the business, Henkle-Sauer can be found enjoying nature with her husband Johann and her grown children Marlene and Andre.
Q: Yours is a truly unique business – supplying vintage tableware for events. How did you get the idea?
It’s a long story, but it begins with my mother. When my sister and I were girls, she entertained a lot and organized wonderful, beautiful parties. She was an interior designer, had a wonderful sense of style and believed in using her pretty dishes rather than just displaying them. She used to say, “don’t cry over broken glass,” and I agree. When I was in my teens, I began antiquing with friends, and as time went by, I amassed quite a collection. I like to host parties like my mom, and many of my friends encouraged me to turn it into a business. Around 2009 I was repeatedly invited to organize events for people, and in 2012, I did my first big event – a bridal fair at the Reading Public Museum – and it’s grown from there.
Q: So Vintage Lace and Table supplies anything from china to glassware to linens for any kind of event?
Yes, clients can choose from my extensive, eclectic collection that includes different china sets, tea sets, glassware, crystal, real silver, vintage champagne coupes and more to enhance any kind of event. I’ve done weddings and rehearsal dinners, baby showers, dinner parties, family reunions, corporate events – there’s no limit to the style or the number. I’ve done intimate dinners for two and large gatherings up to 250 people. I bring everything and set it up according to what my client wishes, including accessories, and then, when the party’s over, I take it all with me.
Q: But your work is more than just the beautiful dishes, isn’t it? It’s about your talent, your ability to create ambiance. Did you always have a desire to get into design?
Vintage style has always been my passion. I went to Germany to study German and European culture while in college and continued collecting dishes and other items while there. I also met my husband, got married and lived there for 10 years. I entertained there – family gatherings and hosting friends – and was encouraged by many people to use my talents and my collection, so I guess I kind of underwent a metamorphosis, blending all my interests.
Q: How did you come to Berks County?
We knew we wanted to come to the states with our children, who were born in Germany, and had the opportunity to do just that when my husband – who is German – was offered a position here with a local company. I got my teaching certificate and began teaching in the Antietam School District; I still substitute around the area.
Q: With all the events you’ve done, is there one type of party you have yet to do but would love to put together?
Wow, that’s a tough one. I love working with people no matter the occasion. And I love weddings, just to be a part of people’s special day, and it is about love, after all, which is amazing. But as for a theme, I think I’d really enjoy organizing a Gatsby-era event. I have always had an affinity for art deco – it was a great time for design, so modern, yet elegant and stylized. I’d love to be part of a team working on such an event, especially for a great cause or a community group; that would be a perfect party.
