Nestled in the heart of Little Rock, The Simple Nest is more than just a furniture shop; it is a mission-driven nonprofit dedicated to providing individuals and families with essential home furnishings. Established in 2024 by Becky Norris, Rhea Middleton and Anne Dyke – this unique organization combines commerce with compassion, blending new and donated furniture in one expansive showroom.
The Simple Nest, which is rooted in faith and community, is launching its inaugural fundraising event – FURNISH – as a celebration of design, community, and generosity. A ticketed preview party will showcase stunning designer-curated vignettes. “It’s an opportunity for people to get the pick of the furnishings and décor we have available,” explains Becky. “We have everything from French antiques to preowned sofas and more that can make your home feel exceptional while the proceeds help our vetted ministry partners ensure donated furniture reaches individuals transitioning out of homelessness, young adults aging out of foster care and new mothers in need.”
The showroom will be transformed into an immersive, elegant experience. Chairs Anne Dyke and Megan Janes explain that FURNISH Preview Party is an exclusive opportunity for attendees to be the first to purchase curated pieces, all while supporting The Simple Nest’s mission. The excitement continues when FURNISH opens its doors to the public. Admission is free, and guests can browse a wide selection, knowing every purchase directly supports fellow Arkansans.
The Simple Nest operates a showroom in the former Cajun’s Wharf warehouse, a beloved local landmark. This space not only serves as a retail hub but also as a sanctuary for giving, where gently used furniture finds new purpose in homes that need it most. It shares the showroom with Shop Simple Designs, a pop-up retail experience imagined by Rhea Middleton and Becky Norris. This once-a-month shopping event allows customers to purchase new furniture, often inspiring them to donate gently used pieces in return. The cyclical nature of this model reinforces the organization’s mission: creating a place of beauty and peace with ingenuity, innovation and imagination and making homes beautiful while giving back to the community.
“We are often asked what people can do to get involved, and we always say FFS,” Rhea elaborates. “You can donate furniture, funds or serve – all of which helps us reach more people and give them a solid start to a new life.” Becky adds, “Our commitment is to help individuals and families in need by providing essentials for their homes.
Furnish
Preview Party – Tuesday, April 15
Event – Thursday, April 17