THE PROCESS
From your first message to the table in your home — here is how it works.
Every Rachael Matthews table begins the same way — with a conversation.
We don't take orders the way a shop takes orders. We talk to every customer personally — about your home, your room, the people who will sit around this table. Then Matthew finishes it by hand, sends you updates along the way, and we bring it to your door ourselves.
01
THE CONVERSATION
Send us a message — through the Contact form here, by email or by phone. Tell us which table you're interested in, how many people you need to seat, and anything you already know about the colour or finish you're after.
We'll come back to you personally, usually the same day. We'll ask about your room, your home, your dining habits. This isn't a sales call — it's how we make sure the table we make is exactly right for you.
02
YOUR SPECIFICATION
Once we know what you're looking for, we'll confirm the exact size, shape, base style and finish. If you're not sure about colour, send us a paint swatch, a fabric sample, or a photo of your dining room — we'll match it.
We'll then give you a clear, fixed quote with no hidden extras. When you're happy, a 50% deposit confirms your commission and secures your place in the making schedule.
Lead times vary: 4-6 weeks for tables we have ready for finishing, 8-16 weeks for bespoke commissions.
03
THE MAKING
Matthew is a third-generation craftsman. He has been finishing furniture by hand his entire working life — and it shows in every table he makes.
He applies colour stain, base coats and a protective lacquer top coat entirely by hand, building the finish in layers. The process is slow by design. Each coat is checked, adjusted and refined until the depth and tone are exactly what was agreed.
We photograph the table at key stages and share the images with you personally. You will see your table being made.
04
DELIVERY & INSTALLATION
We deliver every table ourselves. Rachael and Matthew drive to your home, carry the table in and install it in your dining room. We don't use couriers.
We've delivered to Devon, Scotland, central London and everywhere in between. Distance is never an issue — it's part of the service.
We don't leave until the table is in position, the base is level, and you are happy. The remaining balance is due on delivery.
FROM YOUR FIRST MESSAGE TO YOUR FINISHED TABLE — WE ARE WITH YOU EVERY STEP.
We respond to every enquiry personally.
We photograph every table during the making process.
We deliver and install every table ourselves.
We don't consider the job done until you are completely happy.
Your Questions, Answered
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It depends on the table. For tables we have ready to finish, lead time is typically 4–6 weeks. For bespoke commissions, allow 8–16 weeks depending on the specification. We will always give you a clear lead time before you commit.
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We confirm your exact specification in writing and you go into the making schedule. Matthew will begin work on your table and we'll send you photographs at key stages — when the top is assembled, when the colour goes on, and when the finishing coats are complete. You are never left wondering what's happening.
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Yes — as long as the finishing process hasn't begun. Once Matthew has started applying the stain, colour changes are not possible. We'll always let you know exactly where your table is in the process, so if you have second thoughts, get in touch as soon as possible.
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Yes, everywhere in the UK. We've delivered to Devon, Scotland, central London and many places in between. We drive the table ourselves — it doesn't go on a courier van. Delivery is included in the price.
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Because we deliver personally, we can see the table with you and deal with anything on the spot. We have never left a customer with a table they aren't completely happy with.
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We'll talk you through this on delivery. The lacquer top coat is durable and easy to maintain day-to-day. Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight and always use coasters and placemats for hot items. For minor surface marks over time, we can advise on restoration.
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We don't have a showroom, but if you're local to Maldon in Essex, we can sometimes arrange a visit. Get in touch and we'll see what we can do. Alternatively, our Instagram @byrachaelmatthews shows tables in customers' homes — real spaces, real lighting.
Ready to start?
Tell us about your home, your room and the colour you’re dreaming of.
We’ll come back to you personally to start the conversation.