An Antique Adventure
As many of you have maybe noticed, I love all things classic. Classic music, books, way of life, and I truly love antiques. So this year I decided, I want to try and incorporate my admiration for all things classic, into gifts I give. Though antiques aren't everyone's favorite--I knew there were a few individuals that would enjoy and be thankful for an antique. Which led me on a mini adventure traveling to 4 antique inspired stores throughout my small town in Illinois.
The first store I went to is pictured above, "Doll Corner & Antique Gallery". My, if I had all of the time and money in the world, I could do some damage in this store. Not only did they have antique dolls, but antique furniture, cards, quilts, paintings, American war antiques, and much more. I was in hog heaven.
This doll house was one of many within the store--and one of my favorite pieces.
This is just one small corner in the store!
As you can see this store was an antique building itself--an elevator reaches four floors high, and the whole store is filled to the brim with antiques.
Out of respect, I tried not to take too many photos, but if I had been more daring, I would have taken more for ya'll to see! After about an hour or so of exploring, I left with two paintings, 5 cards, and the promise to return sooner rather than later. All of this only cost about $35.00! But let me add, there are definitely more expensive pieces, like the 48-Star American Flag, antique furniture, and wall art, but I was strategic in my spending (oh, why must there be a budget!?).
Since I am gifting the two photos, I will not be attaching pictures of them today. BUT I am staining the frames, so once I am done fixing up the frames and after giving them to the gift receivers, I will be posting the before and after in the blog. I can't wait! Below I have attached the antique cards I purchased (some classic cards started at 50cents!)
After leaving the Antique Gallery, I went to a few more stores which are shown below:
2. My Treasure House
-This store had a vast number of decorations, and some fun pieces. I didn't end up getting anything here, but it was still fun to walk through and be inspired!
3. Gingham Buffalo
http://ginghambuffalo.com/
-This store is not an antique store, but what's intriguing is how they tie in the classic rustic look, even a classic farm look, into modern decorations and furniture. Gingham Buffalo also has homemade soaps, handmade jewelry, and classic purses and bags. This store is a little pricey, but most pieces are worth it. I have attached the website above for you to look at the store. I ended up leaving with a few things--but again they are gifts--so I will post photos after I give them away!
4. Stix and Stones
Photo from: https://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/stix-and-stones-interiors-edwardsville?select=GPFN0kr0f11zs7CHxtxCXw
I'm not going to lie, this store was more for venturing than for purchasing. This store reminded me of the Magnolia Store (Fixer Upper)--very warm, rustic, and tempting! What's interesting about this store though is that the owner works with many small businesses within the community--selling their work along with other merchandise. This store was also a huge inspiration for me.
At the end of the day, I enjoyed this mini adventure. Though I didn't buy a lot, I was impressed and moved by how these small businesses are taking off. It's exciting to see creative minds bring their ideas to life. The Antique Gallery is a reminder though, to me, that I can also be creative and not spend a ton of money. Though new shiny things can be appealing, there is something about taking something "old" and bringing it back to life, for that sometimes has more meaning.
Please leave a comment or attach any antique stores in your community that you love and would want to share! I am always looking for new adventures! :-)