Plain & Fancy Celebrates 50 Years

50 Years Ago

Plain & Fancy then named John Achey Kitchens after one of its co-founders, was born out of John and Loretta Achey’s garage. John poured heart and soul into making handcrafted, extraordinarily handsome cabinets that he would be proud to have in his own home. Equally as important to John were the people who made it all happen. Whether you were an employee, representative, dealer or a customer, he cared about you. That’s just the kind of person John was and his family and company shared his values. The company is owned by 2nd generation family members with the 3rd generation also involved and playing an active role.

In September of this year Plain & Fancy achieved yet another milestone, as our company reached 50 years in business. It was time to celebrate. It took over a year of planning and culminated with two days of celebrations on September 13th and September 14th. On September 13th all current employees were treated to a delicious lunch provided by the Lancaster Burger Co Food Truck as well as some scrumptious cupcakes from a local baker. George Achey, Plain & Fancy’s president, spoke to employees and reminisced about stories from the past and shared his vision for the future. New England sales representative Kevin McAlary, of Eagle Associates, also spoke to employees about how much he has enjoyed working with Plain & Fancy and his optimism for the years ahead.

On Friday, September 14th dealers, representatives and employees past and present all came together to celebrate this great accomplishment. Due to a potential rainstorm, nearly all of the event was held under a massive 40' x 160' tent but that didn’t change the excitement that surrounded the evening’s events. Every detail received careful attention: the table centerpieces, the lighting fixtures, the speakers, the food and beverages, the games, the giveaways and the music.

Guests had the opportunity to listen to various speakers throughout the evening, most notably Ben and Erin Napier, of the popular HGTV television show “Home Town.” Eliot Sefrin, the former editor and publisher of Kitchen & Bath Design News and long-time friend of the Acheys’, shared his favorite memories of the past. One of our co-founders, Loretta Achey, spoke of the struggles that small business owners face and she celebrated Plain & Fancy’s past and current successes by embracing her family on stage. The last speaker of the evening was our president George Achey. He spoke passionately about his father, his family, Plain & Fancy’s achievements, challenges and plans for the company.

The next part of the evening was set aside to recognize long-time dealerships as well as those with outstanding sales achievements. Dealers shared their stories of working with Plain & Fancy over the years, took pictures and were awarded with commemorative plaques. The remainder of the night consisted of plenty of refreshments, music, dancing, various games and even a competitive cornhole competition amongst Plain & Fancy employees.

It was a night to remember and went just the way John Achey would have wanted. Less about work and more about relationships and just simply having fun.

On Friday, September 14th dealers, representatives and employees past and present all came together to celebrate this great accomplishment. Due to a potential rainstorm, nearly all of the event was held under a massive 40' x 160' tent but that didn’t change the excitement that surrounded the evening’s events. Every detail received careful attention: the table centerpieces, the lighting fixtures, the speakers, the food and beverages, the games, the giveaways and the music.