Debra Venti joins furniture source Johnston Casuals

Holds new merchandise manager post

Heath Combs -- Furniture Today, October 27, 2008

NORTH WILKESBORO, N.C. — Industry veteran Debra Venti has joined steel bedroom, occasional and dining room specialist Johnston Casuals as merchandise manager, a new position at the company.

Debra Venti

Venti has worked in the home furnishings industry and interior design for 20 years with companies including Broyhill, Johnston Casuals and Lazar Inds.

She joined Lazar in 2007 as a consultant in fabric selection, product merchandising and showroom presentation, and continues in that role.

"Debra's design style and energy has added greatly to our new showroom layout and product mix," said Joe Johnston, president.

Venti helped with Johnston's new licensing agreement with Michael Payne, showcasing dining and occasional furnishings, which was introduced last week at the High Point Market.

She also has helped the company develop a vanity under the Pink Chair Fund, with part of the sale proceeds going to support programs to assist women without insurance who cannot afford mammograms.