For a couple of years, I’ve had an idea, in my head, which seems to be sweeping across the country – the advent of the “pop-up-shop”. Simply put, a specialty type of shop finds a location, opens the doors, stocks the place full of great finds, and when they’re done . . . they’re either really done, or they open up for another round, down the road.
(Oh me, oh my – I could have been in trouble at this one!)
For the consumer, you’re spared the dilemma of taking days, weeks and months in making decisions about a particular purchase. If you dally too much, it’s going, going, gone! For the vendor, it’s a sweet thing. No long hours of waiting and hoping someone will stop by. Think of it like an auction or a tag sale. The anticipation of the hunt is pounding in the hearts of those who line up at the door. The prices are generally great, as well as the selections are more unique than the catalog or big-box stores. You’re also contributing to the sustainability movement.
(Where could I have placed this armoire? Let me count the ways!)
I love being able to find great things for my clients, and from time-to-time, I get a little “overstocked” on some of my own purchases. I’ve had “mini shops” in retail spaces, before, and I have to admit, I really enjoy having some spare time to give TLC back to my own home and garden. I had decided not to try to juggle so many balls.
(Some lovely items that were in their last sale. Display is the name of the game, too!)
When I found out about one of these pop-up ventures in Charlotte, I knew it was like receiving manna from heaven! No longer will my treasures be put away in a dull storage space. Oh happy dance! They’re going to new homes, for certain!
Without further adieu . . . I give you . . .
A couple of inventive gals began this venture out of some extra space in a potato chip factory. Kind of gives you an idea of where the name originated. I could tell, from speaking to Martha Serenius, (one of the partners), these ladies had created a fabulous venue for all of the extra accoutrements – aka – “stuff” we all have accumulated.
(Martha and Nell are beaming from seeing all of the shoppers!)
Meanwhile, a lot of this “stuff” is pretty awesome and is being sold at some pretty awesome pricing, too. Therefore, one person’s “stuff” is another person’s “accoutrement” – get it?
(Mmmmm – Did I miss out on some fabulous storage options? Look at the tags! No big box has real wood options for a few dollars.)
If you missed “getting it” at their last sale, don’t even release a sigh. Another one is just around the corner! Guess who will be in the process of making some tags and putting a shine on some things? You win the prize if it begins with a ‘M’ and ends in an ‘E’!
Be sure to put June 9th, 10th & 11th, 9am-4pm, (Friday – Saturday) - on your calendars! A little birdie told me the next sale may not be for several more months! (2001 W. Morehead St, Charlotte, NC 20209)
Here’s a sneak peak of what’s to come. I give my apologies for things not being shown in the prettiest of settings. Storage units are not exactly Neiman Marcus, if you know what I mean.
A darling pair of vintage slipper chairs. All newly upholstered.
Take a look at the legs!
A glimpse of a still life oil painting.
This chair could almost be in the painting.
I really would love to use this mirror, myself, but I’m trying to become less attached to it. Can you give it a good home?
It’s in mint condition!
Love this one, too! Maybe it’s time to rework a few things?
A cutey pie!
I don’t know the Floyds, but I loved their sign.
You can see where they repurposed an existing one. Notice the imprint of ‘closed’ in the background.
Sometimes age is a desirable trait.
I’m just teasing you with this one. It’s an old 20's kitchen cabinet and it’s coming back into the fold, after a few things get cleared out. Right now, it’s storing an overflow of fabric sample books. We found it at a flea market, and my DH tried to get the old paint off – trust me – it was not pretty. There is pine underneath but with all of the coats of paint penetrating the grain, it reached beyond the realm of patience. We let some of the wood telescope through, and did a mustard paint. Many steps later, it’s become a family heirloom of sorts. My DH did a great finishing job but he said it’s his first and last attempt at it!
Thanks to Martha and Nell, I shouldn’t be seeing myself on any upcoming episodes of Hoarders! This event is just in the nick of time!
Some of my social media friends have been nudging me to make a trip for the upcoming Brimfield show. Maybe now they can see it would be like flaming the fires of antique desires. I’m going to sit this one out and get ready for the sale!
All my best! ~ Wanda
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