# Aptations > Changing the way you see yourself ## Pages - [Testing Testimonial](https://www.aptations.com/testing-testimonial/) - [Cookie Policy](https://www.aptations.com/cookie-policy/) - [Terms of Service](https://www.aptations.com/terms-of-service/) - [Disclaimer](https://www.aptations.com/disclaimer/) - [Discontinued Products](https://www.aptations.com/discontinued-products/) - [Installation Instructions](https://www.aptations.com/installation-instructions/) - [Commercial Inquiries](https://www.aptations.com/commercial-inquiries/) - [Contact Us](https://www.aptations.com/contact-us/) - [Warranty Information](https://www.aptations.com/warranty-information/) - [Blog](https://www.aptations.com/blog/) - [Privacy Policy](https://www.aptations.com/privacy-policy/) - [Shop All](https://www.aptations.com/shop-all/) - [About Us](https://www.aptations.com/about-us/) - [Where You've Seen Aptations Mirrors](https://www.aptations.com/inspirations/) - [FAQ](https://www.aptations.com/faq/) - [How to Choose an Aptations Mirror](https://www.aptations.com/how-to-choose-an-aptations-mirror/) - [5 Reasons to Choose Aptations](https://www.aptations.com/5-reasons-to-choose-aptations/) - [Products](https://www.aptations.com/products/) - [Home](https://www.aptations.com/) - [Accessibility Policy](https://www.aptations.com/accessibility-policy/) - [Return Policy](https://www.aptations.com/return-policy/) - [Dealer Locator](https://www.aptations.com/dealer-locator/) ## Posts - [Your Magnified Mirror - Important For Your Wellness](https://www.aptations.com/your-magnified-mirror-an-important-part-of-your-wellness/) - [Musings From KBIS - The Kitchen & Bath Show](https://www.aptations.com/musings-from-kbis-the-kitchen-bath-show/) - [Trends From the Lighting Show](https://www.aptations.com/trends-from-the-lighting-show/) - [Top Trends Impacting the Market](https://www.aptations.com/trends-impacting-the-market/) - [Perfect Bridesmaid or Wedding Gift](https://www.aptations.com/perfect-bridesmaid-wedding-gift/) - [Some Famous Mirrors](https://www.aptations.com/more-famous-mirrors/) - [Famous Mirrors, Part 1](https://www.aptations.com/famous-mirrors/) - [Getting the Best Magnification Mirror for You](https://www.aptations.com/getting-the-best-magnification-mirror-for-you/) - [My Favorite Mirror - Ask the Experts](https://www.aptations.com/my-favorite-mirror-ask-the-experts/) - [2021 – Whew! We Made It! The Lessons (Re)Learned From 2020](https://www.aptations.com/lessons-learned-from-2020/) - [What If Your Purchase of the Perfect Mirror Turns Out to Be . . . . Not Quite Perfect?](https://www.aptations.com/return-mirror/) - [Perfect Gift for the Holidays](https://www.aptations.com/perfect-gift-for-the-holidays/) - [Thank You To Military Families](https://www.aptations.com/thank-you-to-military-families/) - [Mirrors As Room Jewelry](https://www.aptations.com/mirrors-as-room-jewelry/) - [Mirror With Value for Your $$](https://www.aptations.com/mirror-value/) - [Choosing the Best Magnification Mirrors for Hotels](https://www.aptations.com/choosing-magnification-mirrors-for-hotels/) - [More Magnified Makeup Mirrors with Switchable Light](https://www.aptations.com/magnified-mirrors-with-switchable-light/) - [They're Here - Magnified Makeup Mirrors with Switchable Light](https://www.aptations.com/switchable-light-magnified-mirrors/) ## Products - [Rectangular Wall Mirror](https://www.aptations.com/crb_product/rectangular-wall-mirror/) - [10X Double Sided Wall Mirror](https://www.aptations.com/crb_product/10x-double-sided-wall-mirror/) - [Classic Backlit Vanity Mirror](https://www.aptations.com/crb_product/classic-backlit-vanity-mirror/) - [Pure Backlit Vanity Mirror](https://www.aptations.com/crb_product/pure-backlit-vanity-mirror/) - [10X Magnified Double Sided Wall Mirror - Discontinued](https://www.aptations.com/crb_product/10x-magnified-wall-mirror/) - [Contemporary Rectangular Switchable Magnifying Mirror](https://www.aptations.com/crb_product/contemporary-rectangular-switchable-magnifying-makeup-mirror/) - [Round Magnified Mirror with Switchable Light Color](https://www.aptations.com/crb_product/round-magnified-with-switchable-light/) - [Square Freestanding Rechargeable Mirror - Discontinued](https://www.aptations.com/crb_product/square-freestanding-rechargeable-mirror/) - [Square Rechargeable Makeup Mirror - Discontinued](https://www.aptations.com/crb_product/913-series-rechargeable/) - [Cuadro Back-Lit Vanity Mirror](https://www.aptations.com/crb_product/cuadro-back-lit-vanity-mirror/) - [La Bonita Vanity Mirror with 3X Magnifier Inset](https://www.aptations.com/crb_product/vanity-mirror-3x-magnifier/) - [Cava Freestanding Magnified Mirror - Closeout](https://www.aptations.com/crb_product/cava-freestanding-magnified-mirror/) - [Wardrobe Mirror with Tunable Light](https://www.aptations.com/crb_product/wardrobe-mirror-tunable-light/) - [Helix Freestanding Magnified Mirror - Closeout](https://www.aptations.com/crb_product/helix-freestanding-magnified-mirror/) - [NeoModern Lighted Magnifying Makeup Mirror - Discontinued](https://www.aptations.com/crb_product/lighted-magnifying-makeup-mirror/) - [NeoModern Freestanding Magnified Mirror](https://www.aptations.com/crb_product/neomodern-freestanding-magnified-mirror/) - [Enhanced 7X Lens for NeoModern Mirrors](https://www.aptations.com/crb_product/enhanced-7x-lens/) - [Single-Sided Round Magnified Mirror - Discontinued](https://www.aptations.com/crb_product/single-sided-round-magnified-mirror/) - [Round Lighted Vanity Mirror](https://www.aptations.com/crb_product/round-lighted-vanity-mirror/) - [Minimalist Rectangular Freestanding Magnified Mirror](https://www.aptations.com/crb_product/minimalist-rectangular-freestanding-magnified/) - [Duo Tunable Vanity Mirror](https://www.aptations.com/crb_product/duo-tunable-vanity-mirror/) - [NeoClassic Back-Lit Vanity Mirror](https://www.aptations.com/crb_product/neoclassic-back-lit-vanity-mirror/) - [Square Freestanding Mirror - Closeout](https://www.aptations.com/crb_product/square-freestanding-mirror-closeout/) - [Rectangular Freestanding Magnified Mirror](https://www.aptations.com/crb_product/rectangular-freestanding-magnified-mirror/) - [Classic Adjustable Freestanding Mirror - Discontinued](https://www.aptations.com/crb_product/classic-adjustable-freestanding-mirror/) - [10X Recessed Base Mirror - Discontinued](https://www.aptations.com/crb_product/10x-recessed-base-mirror/) - [Square Magnified Makeup Mirror - Discontinued](https://www.aptations.com/crb_product/square-magnified-makeup-mirror/) - [Sol Tunable Light Vanity Mirror](https://www.aptations.com/crb_product/sol-tunable-light-vanity/) - [Ventana Rectangular LED Lighted Wall Mirror - Closeout](https://www.aptations.com/crb_product/ventana-rectangular-led-lighted-wall-mirror/) - [Retro Accordion Extension Magnifying Mirror - Discontinued](https://www.aptations.com/crb_product/retro-accordion-extension-magnified-mirror/) - [5X Double Arm Magnified Mirror](https://www.aptations.com/crb_product/double-arm-magnified-mirror/) - [Square Plug-In Magnified Makeup Mirror - Discontinued](https://www.aptations.com/crb_product/912wpl/) - [Recessed Base Freestanding Magnified Mirror](https://www.aptations.com/crb_product/recessed-base-freestanding-magnified/) - [Minimalist Rectangular Wall Mirror](https://www.aptations.com/crb_product/minimalist-rectangular-wall-mirror/) - [Magnified Makeup Mirror with Switchable Light](https://www.aptations.com/crb_product/makeup-mirror-switchable/) # # Detailed Content ## Pages The RAVES are in. Cookie Policy Please wait while the policy is loaded. If it does not load, please click here to view the policy. Find the Mirror that Reflects Your Personality VIEW ALL PRODUCTS Terms of Service Please wait while the policy is loaded. If it does not load, please click here to view the policy. Find the Mirror that Reflects Your Personality VIEW ALL PRODUCTS Disclaimer Please wait while the policy is loaded. If it does not load, please click here to view the policy. Find the Mirror that Reflects Your Personality VIEW ALL PRODUCTS DiscontinuedProducts Some of these profucts are still available for custom builk orders of 50 more more. Click on a product to learn more. If you are overseeing a large commercial / hospitality build, you may inquire as to custom wholesale product orders of mirrors with similar specs. Installation Instructions Enter Series or Reference Number , or Filter Products Below ATTN CONTRACTORS! APTATIONS IS OPEN TO CommercialInquiries With extensive experience servicing the hospitality industry, we're a well-oiled supplier for your hotel or building. Gain access to exclusive mirror collections, and custom designs, at bulk and wholesale rates. INQUIRE NOW JOIN OUR NETWORK OF HOSPITALITY PARTNERS Available to Our Commercial Partners CUSTOM MIRROR DESIGNS Custom sizing, lighting, finishes and other specifications are all on the table (and then mounted onto the walls if you like). LARGE VANITY MIRRORS For the big projects, we break out the big mirrors. We can supply the large, illuminated vanity mirrors that we are known for, amona other exclusive collections. WHOLESALE PRICES Ensuring excellent quality at incredible value makes us excited. Bulk orders are able to access our wholesale pricing. Let's Start a Conversation To begin an inquiry, contact us. You can call or text (800) 639-6864, For email info@aptations. com. You can also use the form below. A member of our team will get back to you within 2 business ideas. What Our Clients Say Check out Aptationsmirrors in person. FIND A NEARBY DEALER Contact Us We’d love to hear from you! But first, maybe this could help? Check out our FAQ page. Make a commercial inquiry here. Learn about warranty policy here. Find discontinued product manuals here. Call(800) 639-6864 Emailinfo@aptations. com (or use contact form). Business Address800 NE Tenney Rd,Ste 110-220,Vancouver WA 98685 Warranty Information We stand by our products’ quality, durability, and enduring style. Aptations, Inc. , mirrors are warranted to be free of defects in material and workmanship for three (3) years. This warranty does not cover damages resulting from accident after purchase, misuse, abuse, lack of reasonable care, loss of parts or installation in showers. The life of the finish will be best cared for, especially in areas of high heat and moisture, by keeping all surfaces clean and dry. LED lighting is not replaceable and is included in warranty coverage for a period of 3 years. The customer should be sure the problem is a manufacturer’s defect and covered by the warranty before initiating a warranty claim. To initiate a warranty claim, contact Aptations Customer Service for a Return Authorization (RA) number at Returns@Aptations. com. Any alteration to merchandise automatically voids your Aptations Warranty Policy. Products sold at a price that has been discounted more than 30% from the normal price are not covered by the warranty. This includes all closeout items. Shipping Damage or Shipping Error All claims for damage in shipment or shipping error must be submitted within 30 days of receipt of goods. All shipments should be inspected for damage and accuracy upon receipt. Claims for damage or shipping error must be submitted in writing to Returns@Aptations. com. For claims involving damage in shipment SAVE ALL SHIPPED GOODS AND PACKAGING AS RECEIVED in case inspection is required by parcel or freight carrier. Product that is damaged... The Aptations Blog Written by Christy Winter, President & Queen ‘of All I See’ at Aptations,and ever one to muse on all things mirror. Privacy Policy Please wait while the policy is loaded. If it does not load, please click here to view the policy. Find the Mirror that Reflects Your Personality VIEW ALL PRODUCTS Shop All Shop Quality. Do It Locally. FIND A NEARBY DEALER About Aptations We are a family business with three decades of mirrors and joy under our beld. 30 Years of Mirrors, Mirrors, Mirrors Founded in the mid-80’s by Christy and Robert Winter, this family business has ALWAYS only sold mirrors – first through our predecessor Kimball & Young – and now as Aptations. Because mirrors are our sole focus, our raison d’étre, our obsession, we sell the finest mirrors for the best value that you can get anywhere. We’ve seen a lot of fads and trends come and go. But through it all, there have always been 2 really big reasons for having the right mirror... . We want you to look great and have total confidence when you go out into the world, and... . . We want your bathroom to look great too. We are proud that Aptations mirrors have stood the test of time as a highlight fixture of our customers’ homes, have decorated and enhanced the bathrooms and closet rooms of luxury hotels such as the X, Y, and Z, and have been sold by trusted retailers worldwide. Here we are in the 80’s at the starting point of Aptations! The hair was as high as our mirror standards. We have led the way in showrooms and at conferences all over the world. Staying on top of mirror trends, technology and more is key. Here we are checking out the install of 200+ mirrors in the Westin luxury hotel. Pretty snazzy! The team is celebrating our... Where you’ve seen Aptations Mirrors From the chic bathrooms of renowned hotels like Renaissance and Hilton to the shelves of trusted retailers, Aptations mirrors have established themselves as icons of quality, durability, and timeless elegance. Trusted by both hospitality giants and discerning consumers alike, our Kimball & Young, Mirror Image and Sergena collections are synonymous with luxury, reliability, and enduring style. Hospitality What Customers Think Shop Quality. Do It Locally. FIND A NEARBY DEALER FrequentlyAsked Questions Questions about Products How can I tell if a mirror is really a 5x magnification or not? When a mirror has a higher magnification, you need to be closer to it to be in focus. For example, to see yourself in focus in a 5X mirror, you will need to be within 5″ – 7″ of the lens. To be in focus using one of our 10X mirrors, you will need to be approximately 3″ from the lens. Can I get one of your contemporary styled square or rectangular mirrors in a 5x magnification? You seem to only carry them in 3x. Correct – we only offer our square and rectangular mirrors in 3X. We want to be sure that there is no distortion in the corners of the mirrors. I have 15x magnification mirrors now, but most of your mirrors are only 5x... . or lower. Why not offer higher magnification? Magnification of mirrors is not something that is regulated so a mirror company can say that the magnification is whatever they think will sell. We feel pretty strongly about telling the truth so you can count on us to give you a 5X magnified mirror when we tell you that is the magnification. The “other guys” regularly give you a 5X magnification wrapped up in 15X – or even 20X – packaging. What is the difference between WARM White light and COOL White Light color? Which is better? The color that is better is the one... How to Choosean Aptations Mirror To pick the perfect magnifying mirror or large vanity mirror for your bathroom takes a bit more consideration than most people realize. Most people don’t think much about their bathroom mirror, and that’s how it should be! If you make the best decision when you are buying your mirror, then all you’ll worry about when you look at the mirror is how great your hair looks! Let us help you with the details that you should consider... . Consider the Type of Mirror Wall-mounted mirror, magnifying mirror, mirrors with lights... . there are a lot of options to choose from! When you are making decisions about your bathroom design, remember to focus on function over form. Both are important but begin with function. Ask yourself: When you put on makeup or do skin care, do you need some additional magnification and the additional information that comes with it? How about additional light? Do you live in a place where it would be difficult or expensive to install a hardwired lighted mirror... . maybe an apartment or an older home with limited electrical wiring? Are you approaching... . or past (gasp! )... . that magical 40th birthday when everyone’s eyes seem to get a bit more dim? Have you ever thought it would be great to have a frame of light around your face to better see how you look? These questions are all about function – how you will use your mirror and how it... 5 Reasons toChoose Aptations We don’t compromise on quality. When you invest in an Aptations mirror, you're investing in quality craftsmanship. Our mirrors come with a generous three-year warranty covering finishes, mechanical parts, and reflective materials. Each mirror frame is meticulously pre-tensioned, ensuring durability and stability. With hidden hardware and rigorous ETL testing, our mirrors exude a superior aesthetic while meeting the highest safety standards. Quality is our highest standard. THE GREATEST MIRROR GLASS No waves, distortions or black edges. Not all glass is created equal. We use glass sourced from the most discerning suppliers in the world and go through rigorous quality control testing. Our magnified mirrors are distortion-free so you can see yourself without strange waves that can occur. Our frosting lets light shine through uniformly so your mirror won’t have any spots where the light is brighter or dimmer. No “desilvering,” the process where mirrors turn black and streaky around the edges due to moisture coming into contact with the reflective material applied to the back of the glass. We proactively solve for this in two ways: the reflective material is coated with a layer of water-resisting paint AND we use a silicone glue in our frames, adding moisture-protection to the edges. DURABLE METALS & FINISHES No rust or chips. After glass, the next most important thing is the metal surrounding the mirror. These mirrors are being used in a damp room, so naturally they’re susceptible to rust. That is why our mirrors’ metals are protected from... Shop by Collection KIMBALL & YOUNG COLLECTION Illuminated magnified makeup mirrors for your wall or bathroom vanity table top. MIRROR IMAGECOLLECTION Value-driven, non-lighted magnified makeup mirrors for your wall or bathroom vanity table top. Shop by Mount / Electric Wall Mirrors Plug-In Lighted Hardwired Lighted RECHARGEABLE Lighted NON-Lighted FreestandingMirrors Plug-In Lighted RECHARGEABLE Lighted NON-Lighted Shop by Finish CHROME BRUSHED NICKEL POLISHED NICKEL BRUSHED BRASS MATTE BLACK Or Shop All VIEW ALL PRODUCTS Searching for Large Lighted Vanity Mirrors? Our signature large, illuminated vanity mirrors are exclusively available within commercial projects and bulk orders. COMMERCIAL PROJECT INQUIRY APTATIONS MIRRORS See Yourself inyour best Light Aptations is a 30-year old heritage brand known for high end lighted bathroom mirrors, quality products, craftsmanship and outstanding customer care. LIGHTED MIRRORS As Seen In Sheraton The Aptations Difference LASTING QUALITY Mirrors reveal themselves over time. Ours are built to last with premium materials and time-tested techniques. ELEGANT DESIGN Interior designers love our height distinct metal finishes and design variety that complement any bathroom. FAMILY BUSINESS Founded by husband-wife duo Christy and Robert Winters, this family business can reflect on over three decades of joy. TRUSTED BRAND In over 30 years, Aptations mirrors have graced the rooms of global household-name hotels and resorts. MORE ABOUT US → You’ll Light UpWhen You See Illuminated, magnified makeup mirrors let you see ALL of your true self, and in your very best light. Reflect onSimplicity These non-lighted, wall-mounted and freestanding mirrors offer exceptional quality at wonderful value. A Few Favorite Freestanders Shop Quality. Do It Locally. The RAVES are in. Accessibility Policy Aptations, Inc. Accessibility Statement (Aptations)Updated: February, 2024 GeneralAptations strives to ensure that its services are accessible to people with disabilities. Aptations has invested a significant amount of resources to help ensure that this website is made easier to use and more accessible for people with disabilities, with the strong belief that every person has the right to live with dignity, equality, comfort and independence. Accessibility on aptations. comThe software in use on this site allows Aptations to improve its compliance with the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG 2. 0). Enabling the Accessibility MenuThe accessibility menu on aptations. com can be enabled by clicking the accessibility menu icon that appears on the lower right corner of any page. After triggering the accessibility menu, please wait a moment for the accessibility menu to load in its entirety. DisclaimerAptations continues its efforts to constantly improve the accessibility of its site and services in the belief that it is our collective moral obligation to allow seamless, accessible and unhindered use also for those with disabilities. Despite our efforts to make all pages and content on aptations. com fully accessible, some content may not have yet been fully adapted to the strictest accessibility standards. This may be a result of not having found or identified the most appropriate technological solution. Here For YouIf you are experiencing difficulty with any content on aptations. com or require assistance with any part of our site, please contact us during normal business hours as detailed below and... We want your Aptation's mirror to be all that you expected but if it doesn't meet your expectations, a return request can be made within 120 days of the original ship date. To initiate a return request, contact Aptations Customer Service for a Return Authorization (RA) number at Returns@ Aptations. com. No returned item will be accepted without Return Authorization. Requests for return or warranty coverage should be emailed to Returns@Aptations. com. The following information is required: • The original PO number • The item number • A description of the reason for return • Additional information may be requested from Aptations to process your return request. All authorized returns must be shipped freight prepaid unless prior arrangements are made. Products sold at a price that has been discounted more than 30% from the normal price are not eligible to be returned. This includes all closeout items. Custom made mirrors are not eligible for return. RESTOCKING FEES For returns of non-defective merchandise where no shipping error has occurred, a 35% restocking fee will be assessed. We do not waive restocking fees. All return requests must be received within 120 days of the original ship date. RETURN ADDRESS Approved returns must be shipped back to our fulfillment warehouse (unless otherwise instructed) at the following address: Symbia / Aptations 12505 NE 41st Street #200 Kansas City, MO 64161 Returns shipped to a different address than the above will incur a $25 handling fee. The shipping label must include the assigned RA number... Dealer Locator - Aptations 800 NE Tenney Rd, Ste 110-220, Vancouver WA 98685 | ph. 800-639-6864 • fax Product Shop All Shop By Collection Kimball & Young Mirror Image Collection Shop By Mirror Type Free Standing Mirrors Wall Mount Mirrors Get Inspired About Us 5 Reasons to Choose Aptations How to Choose an Aptations Mirror Where You’ve Seen Aptations Mirrors FAQ Find a Dealer Product Shop All Shop By Collection Kimball & Young Mirror Image Collection Shop By Mirror Type Free Standing Mirrors Wall Mount Mirrors Get Inspired About Us 5 Reasons to Choose Aptations How to Choose an Aptations Mirror Where You’ve Seen Aptations Mirrors FAQ Find a Dealer Find a Dealer Aptations products are sold through over 200 retailers and showrooms nationwide. We encourage customers to shop local! Find a dealer near you below. Zip Code Radius 50 Miles 100 Miles 200 Miles 300 Miles 400 Miles FIND A LOCAL DEALER VIEW COLLECTIONS Kimball & Young Luxurious, elegant small mirrors. Mirror Image High quality and excellent value non-lighted mirrors. View All Products EXPLORE About Aptations Why Choose Aptations How to Pick a Mirror As Seen In Inspiration Blog SUPPORT FAQ Warranty Information Contact Support Commercial Project Inquiry Installation Instructions Discontinued Product Info Copyright ©2024 Aptations Inc.  Accessibility Policy  Privacy Policy Cookie Policy Terms of Use ## Posts When you think about a magnified makeup mirror, you don't tend to consider it a part of your health and wellness regimen. Well... you should think again! Summer - Skin Cancer - Wellness As we move through the summer months, we need to be aware of skin health. Whether your favorite summer activity is sitting in the sun reading the latest beach read or something much more active - hiking, biking, swimming, rowing... the list goes on - you need to be aware that the sun can harm your skin. Skin cancer is the cancer you can see. https://www. skincancer. org/early-detection/ Magnifying mirrors - often called makeup mirrors - can be a useful tool for self-examination. They will give you a closer, more detailed view, of your skin so you can see subtle changes or irregularities in moles, blemishes or other marks. Dermatologists and health organizations recommend regular self-examination for early detection of skin cancer. You know what your skin looks like and changes or suspicious features might warn you of possible skin cancer. A Word of Caution Please don't substitute self-examination with a magnifying mirror for a regular check up with your doctor. Dermatologists combine specialized dermatoscopes with training and experience that you simply don't have. Your magnifying mirror can send an early warning signal but count on the professionals to diagnose and treat any skin problems. Don't overemphasize minor imperfections. These "imperfections" make you the beautiful and interesting person that you are! ... . And There's More... .... After a quick trip to Las Vegas to attend the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show, I came away with some thoughts - and some very tired feet! ! - and I wanted to share. There's Some Interesting Technology Coming to the Market ... for example, there was the FreePower booth. FreePower wireless charging locations that can be integrated directly into countertops. Imagine... . you're getting ready for the day, you simply put your cell phone down on the square that outlines the charger and your phone charges while you're getting ready. Or maybe your kitchen counter has one installed and you can re-charge your phone while you're pulling together the evening meal. Check them out at https://www. freepower. io/ Pretty cool! I was also really impressed with the new products coming from the team at Brondell. They have built an assortment of kitchen and bath products that are specifically designed for healthy living. They won't eat your vegetables for you but they do all of the other things to keep you healthy. Take a look... . https://www. brondell. com/ Lighting Is Being Showcased at KBIS I've been going to KBIS for many years and each year it seems that there are more and more lighting companies on display. That makes perfect sense. There was a time when lighting dealers didn't sell plumbing or hardware and plumbing and hardware dealers didn't want to have anything to do with lighting. Those channels are consolidating and the companies showing off their products at... I recently had the chance to see some of the new trends from the lighting show after a quick trip to Dallas to Lightovation, the residential lighting trade show and market. Creativity is alive and well in the lighting industry! What is happening in lighting, you ask? ? Well, let’s see... . Natural Materials After years of very contemporary designs, it was really refreshing to see so many natural materials being incorporated. There were a lot of lamp shades made from wood, and chandeliers made from wooden beads. There was also a wide selection of light fixtures with rattan or even burlap-looking shades. While the wood and rattan fixtures added a distinct bohemian flair to the show, it didn't end there. There were also some really stunning (more... ) I wanted to report back after a quick trip to southern California to meet with our wonderful dealers and see what trends are impacting the market. It was a great couple of days. There is nothing like talking to your customers and trading partners to find out what’s happening in the market. Here’s a quick look at what I learned... . Black and Brass are the new... . . well, Black. Matte Black and various Brass finishes have been in the market for a few years now but both finishes are really getting some traction. As more and more of the fixture companies are offering these finishes, there’s huge demand on the hardware and accessory companies to keep up. We, at Aptations, are doing our part, (more... ) Springtime is here, which means a lot of happy people are looking for the perfect bridesmaid or wedding gift. The sun is shining, birds are chirping, and Love is in the air! How wonderful for all of these couples and families to be able to celebrate their big days! Gift for a Bridesmaid My daughter will be a bridesmaid in her friend’s wedding in July. This got me thinking about the tradition of bridesmaids’ gifts. What better way to say thank you to your bridesmaids than with one of our magnified makeup mirrors? What woman wouldn’t want a beautiful, stylish, and high-quality accessory (more... ) It turns out that there are even more famous mirrors that need to be discussed. The following all involve having mirrors smashed and broken, which is something that we, at Aptations, discourage. Let’s take a look at some famous mirrors and the mirror smashers who made them famous. Richard II, by William Shakespeare This Shakespeare play is an historical tragedy and as with all Shakespeare plays, it is filled with nuance. One of the less nuanced scenes has Richard II focusing on a mirror and what it tells him about the stress he has been under. (more... ) There have been a large number of famous mirrors in literature, music, and movies thru the years. Sometimes they are used as a metaphor and sometimes they are simply a mirror, reflecting back an image that is often less than flattering. Let’s begin to take a look at some of the most famous mirrors in Part 1 of this blog series. Magic Mirror On The Wall... . In the Disney movie, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, the Evil Queen begins each morning by asking... . . ”Magic mirror on the wall, who’s the fairest one of all? ” The Queen is quite beautiful, at least in appearance, and this mirror always told the truth. So, day after day, the mirror tells the Queen that she is the fairest in the land. Then one day, to the (more... ) “Mr. DeMille, I’m ready for my close-up” was the line famously delivered by Gloria Swanson. She was playing the part of aging actress Norma Desmond, in the 1950 classic Sunset Boulevard. The question is... . . are you ready for your close-up? What is the best magnification mirror for you? ? (more... ) We asked our controller, Laura, to tell us about her favorite mirror. My favorite Aptations mirror is... ... . our Single-Sided LED Round Wall Mirror - model 944 It is one of the lighted, hardwired mirrors in our Kimball & Young collection. This is a 5X magnified mirror, which is such a great help during makeup application. 5X may not sound like a lot of magnification, but it’s a true 5X strength which is quite powerful, much more so than some drugstore mirrors you might find which claim higher magnification. For me, 5X is plenty. Classic Styling You can’t go wrong with the classic, simple style of this mirror. It’s wall-mounted, so it doesn’t take up any space on the counter. Its slim design allows it to tuck away easily. The lens can be positioned at any angle, which makes it really comfortable and convenient to use. We even have this little beauty in our restroom at the office, so there’s another endorsement. Switchable LED Lighting The LED lighting is bright enough to allow me to see what I want to, but not so bright that it’s distracting. The feature I like best is that we have just added new technology which allows the LED lights to be switched between (more... ) When the history is written, 2020 will give us some good things and a lot more bad things but there are definitely lessons learned from 2020. Taking a page from the great David Letterman, I want to share my list of the Top 10 Lessons Learned From 2020. 10. Panic is real! Accept it... . deal with it... . and then move thru it. 9. We've done this before. Certainly we've never done it quite like this, but... we've gone thru challenges that are enough like this that we can plan how to get thru this one. 8. Pay attention! ... . to what your people are telling you, your inventory flow, your cash flow, and your profit levels. For example, while we have some really unique vanity mirrors, we didn’t have a selection of basic, opening price, vanity mirrors. Look for our new Pure and Classic mirrors coming in 2021. 7. A bit of quiet time gives space for creativity and innovation. (more... ) Don’t worry—we’re here to help! We are happy to accept a return of a mirror within 120 days of the ship date because we know that having a good return policy gives you confidence in us. (The Importance of a Good Return Policy) This allows time for you to receive the mirror, inspect it thoroughly, and make sure it’s going to work in the intended space. (more... ) I think I’m like most people – I both love the chance to pick out the perfect gift for the holidays and I panic when I’m faced with buying a gift for someone who is hard to shop for. I LOVE the times when someone helps me out... . . and I REALLY LOVE the times someone helps out my beloved husband and children. Let me return the favor and help you out with some ideas... . . For the One Who Deserves Some Pampering Most women don’t take enough time to take care of themselves. I try really hard to not generalize but, in this case, I think I’m on pretty solid ground. If the woman in your life would love the chance to just focus on herself, then a gift of a magnifying makeup mirror is ideal for her. Having a magnifying makeup mirror allows her to spend some time primping and preening and generally making herself feel better. A woman who feels like she looks good has the confidence to conquer the world... . (more... ) November 11, 2020 is Veteran’s Day and November is Military Family Month and at Aptations, we want to say thank you to military families. The National Child Traumatic Stress Network tells us... . ”November was first declared as Military Family Month in 1996. They contend with separation from their families and make adjustments to new living situations and communities. Military Families embody strength, resilience, and courage. ” National Child Traumatic Stress Network An American Story My parents were both in the US Air Force. My Dad retired as a Lt. Colonel and my Mom resigned her commission as a Captain when she married my father and started a family. While neither were in the military when I was growing up, the impact of the military was a constant in our lives. When we would prepare for a family vacation, my father would forget that we were children and not soldiers and would bark orders at us as if we were invading somewhere... . . not just visiting family. My Mom brought her skills as a leader and an Air Force officer to everything she did and was my role model to help me become the leader and owner of my own company. (more... ) I’ve always thought of mirrors as room jewelry. And like the most perfect jewelry, it can make a definite statement about the overall look, in this case, of the room. Back in 2009, at the depth of the last great recession, I was invited to a Girl’s Day at the San Francisco Nordstrom’s with a bunch of really good friends. I was suffering from “recession fatigue” and wanted to get out with friends and enjoy some shopping. I was just getting out - I was not going to spend any money! Well... . that plan didn’t work so well and I ended up falling in love with and buying a couple of great outfits that were WAY beyond the current clothing budget. Then the personal shopper asked, “would you like to take a look at some scarves and belts to go with that? ” In for a penny, or in my case a stressed credit card... . . I reasoned. I agreed and piled on even more expensive accessories. Even though I knew I would be calling, first my credit card company, and then my husband, to explain these extravagant purchases including scarf, belt and shoes, I still bought them because they were absolutely perfect with those outfits. Frankly, it would have been a bad idea to try to accessorize these great outfits – expensive clothing investments - with the things I already had. It wouldn’t have done justice to any of the pieces. (more... ) The reviewer said... . ”it was a bit pricey, but well worth it... . . ” I love it when customers find value in our mirrors! It means that we have struck a balance between the price that they paid and the quality of the mirror that we delivered to them. It is tricky to talk about value because it is an intangible quality to deliver. The recent pandemic has made us all aware that seemingly trivial items can have great value – toilet paper in March, for example. I have been giving a lot of thought to defining how I determine value in a mirror, and even in “normal” times, value is an elusive and intangible thing, often only understood by the person looking for value. Like beauty, value... . “is in the eye of the beholder. ” (Margaret Wolfe Hungerford) (more... ) Recently, a designer asked me about choosing the best magnification mirrors for hotels and their guests. Most successful designs give the guest the feeling of home but with luxurious amenities. Do you Need Magnification Mirrors in Hotels? Magnifying mirrors should be one of those amenities and in every hotel & resort. Now, I’m not just saying this because I’ve been selling magnified mirrors for the last 10 years but as someone who has worn glasses since the 2nd grade. Believe me, there is nothing more uncomfortable than having to crane your neck like a giraffe (or in my case a full body stretch) across the vanity to be able to see that painful eyelash poking in my eye or apply eyeliner without looking like a raccoon ~ eek! I’ve even resorted to using the guestroom wardrobe mirror in the dimly lit hallway while battling the unflattering shadows of a single ceiling canister light, hoping that I don’t look like a Goth clown as I race off to an important business meeting. And even if you have perfect vision, magnification allows for exacting application of lip liner or eyeliner, subtle blending of colors, flawless tweezing, and crisp shaving because let’s be honest, we ALL like to look good! (more... ) We recognize a good (actually great) thing when we see it! The magnified makeup mirrors with switchable light are definitely great... . . fantastic... . . fabulous! ! That's why we're adding more mirrors with this great switchable light. Available now... . . Neomodern Double-Sided LED Mirrors in Chrome. https://www. aptations. com/product/neomodern-switchable-light-color/ Round Single-Sided LED Mirrors in Chrome and Brushed Nickel. https://www. aptations. com/product/round-magnified-with-switchable-light/ Coming soon... . . Neomodern Double-Sided LED Mirrors in Matte Black, Brushed Nickel and Polished Nickel... . . available early October 2020 Round Single-Sided LED Mirrors in Polished Nickel and Matte Black... . . available in mid-December 2020 What makes magnified makeup mirrors with switchable light so great... . fantastic... . fabulous? The switch that controls the on/off function now allows you to switch between warm white light and cool white light. Warm white light -- 3500 Kelvin -- is about the same light color that you find inside of most buildings. It's a bit more "warm" in that it has undertones of yellow and rose coloring in the light. Cool white light - 5500 Kelvin - is the same light color that you get when you sit outside on a sunny day. It is bright and crisp and white. Warm white light is great if you're planning on being inside and cool white light is great if you're going to be outside. Warm-->Work. Cool-->Dining on a Terrace. Now, you get both! ! We think you'll love them as much as we do! Place your order... We are SOOO excited because the magnified makeup mirrors with switchable light are arriving at Aptations! Hang on... . . Let me backtrack a minute and explain why this is so exciting. In the beginning... . one of the best things for us about putting LED lighting into our makeup mirrors was the chance to play around with the light color. In the process, we've seen makeup mirrors with super-cool light - are you feeling blue today? ? - super-yellow light - do you feel sick today? ? - and even one time we saw a mirror with green light. Happily we have been able to strike a balance and offer our lighted mirrors with either warm white light - 3500 Kelvin - or cool white light - 5500 Kelvin. Warm white light - 3500 Kelvin - is about the same light color that you find inside of most buildings. It's a bit more "warm" in that it has touches of yellow and rose coloring in the light that is output. Cool white light - 5500 Kelvin - is the same light color as you get when you sit outside on a sunny day. It is bright and crisp and white. Warm white light is great to use if you're planning on being inside and cool white light is great to groom with if you're going to be outside. Warm -->work. Cool -->soccer field. You get it. Now, you can have a magnified makeup mirror from Aptations with both light... ## Products Features The Retro Accordion Extension Magnifying Mirror is the perfect accent to any vintage bathroom or vanity. Its 1x/5x magnification, 7. 75” diameter mirror, and 16. 5” arm extension provides a unique touch for any traditional or industrial style bathroom. The accordion arm allows the mirror to retract flat against the wall, so it is perfect for smaller bathrooms. The rivets that hold the accordion arms together are strong and will allow you to use this mirror for many years to come. Available in Chrome finish. Details Frame Size: 7. 75" diameter Magnification: 1X/5X 16. 5" Extension Accordion Extension Magnifying Mirror: Chrome - 23345 It is our vision to provide world class products, innovative choices and a distinctive experience. It is our mission to serve our trading partners and the ultimate consumer through the design and delivery of high value products and bold leadership. We deliver consistently, reliably, and on time.