The Proprietors
Glenda & Ron Milam, and Crissy, the original store dog. Ron and Glenda each have backgrounds in real estate,
banking, mortgage lending, and construction. Glenda & Crissy brought strong relationship skills and experience in
social management.
The desire to own and operate their own business led them to Northwest Arkansas where they opened the doors to
Lighting Emporium in February 1989. In October 2017 Ron decides to retire and is enjoying a well deserved casual
lifestyle. Glenda is the only problem he has to deal with these days.
1989
Glenda, Ron, and Crissy Milam open the doors to Lighting Emporium for the first time. The three of them
solely run Lighting Emporium's 3,000 square foot showroom for the first ten months before hiring their first
employee.
1991
In 1991, they increased their showroom space to 5,000 square feet. Adding artwork, mirrors, and lamps to the
ever growing product selection.
1993
Four years after opening the doors Glenda, Ron, and Crissy Milam make the monumental decision to purchase
the building they are renting located at 5610 North Thompson in Springdale, Arkansas. This solidifies the
business location and increases the showroom space from 5,000 to 10,000 total square feet. To top this off
Glenda introduces additional product inventory of antique furniture, accessories, hardware, and custom lamp
shades.
2001
Eleven years after opening and representing Lighting Emporium Crissy Milam hands her crown over to a new
pup, Gabriella Milam. Gabby begins to represent Lighting Emporium appearing in local commercials and
marketing materials. Her unique management style is eventually copied by her successors.
2007
With eighteen years of experience behind them Glenda and Ron increase Lighting Emporium’s showroom space to
a grand total of 23,000 square feet. To utilize this additional space Glenda introduces a Rug Gallery and
new product lines such as Rowe, Loloi Rugs, Wesley Hall, Classic and more.
2013
2013 marks almost twenty five years in business for Lighting Emporium. Ron and Glenda decide to celebrate by
expanding to the second floor! The additional 10,000 square foot increases total showroom to 33,000 square
feet.
2017
After nearly thirty years at Lighting Emporium Ron Milam makes the decision to retire. Gabby Milam joins him
leaving the entire business under Glenda's complete control! Gabby still stars in commercials, and marketing
but remains loyal to the relaxing lifestyle of retirement.
2018
After retirement Gabby suggested that we begin the search for additional talent. November, 2018 Glenda
brings home two puppies, Rebel & Rubie. Gabby embraces Rebel & Rubie, whispers family secrets and begins to
talk marketing to her successors. After careful consideration Gabby chose Rebel to reign as Lighting
Emporium’s marketing & store dog. Rubie takes Gabby’s spot with Ron at home enjoying retirement.
2023
Lighting Emporium is nearing their 35th year in NWA! Hey, Glenda was 35 years old when Lighting Emporium opened their doors for the first time.
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