Although we live in an era of online shopping I think even my most ardent fans from afar will agree that nothing beats being inside the shop. The smells and sounds of the shop are comment worthy and the general vibe is so peaceful and relaxing that it is not uncommon to have someone walk through the door on any given day because they needed a quiet place to relax for a minute.
So today I just thought I would highlight some of the fun parts of the shop that get a lot of attention and comments. I am hoping those of you who are far away will get a better sense of what it's like to be inside the shop.
I always knew that I wanted a string of paper lanterns hanging from the ceiling and I can safely say I am not the only one who likes this idea. I have been asked so many times if I sell this lighting set-up. Inside tip: you can find them at online paper lantern shops that carry a variety of sizes and colors and make your very own. My advice, buy the 100 pack of cup hooks.
One of the most stressful tasks I undertook when planning the build out for the shop was to install this mosaic at the front door. When I first came to look at the space there was no flooring installed which left this corner at the door exposed. There was basically a concrete slab there so I assumed there most likely was a mosaic at one time as they were a common sight at doorways of commercial spaces. I used the colors of the building and the Greek heritage of the landowners to inspire this design.
One of the smartest moves I made was to add this kid kitchen to the corner of the shop that houses all of the kid goods. I was blessed enough to have a friend leave this family heirloom kitchen in my attic for a few years. She didn't hesitate when I asked her if I could use it in my shop. The kitchen was built by her Grandpa for her mom and siblings in 1952. As you can imagine, parents are quite appreciative of the fact that their kids have something to keep them busy while they shop. I "eat" a lot wooden food stews, wooden egg sammies, and plastic hot dogs with plastic bacon.
We call this Dried Flower Corner and it is often the most sought after spot in the shop for guest vendors on Mini Market days. I dry a lot of flowers from both my home garden and my shop garden. I have always fantasized about having an antique herb drying rack that looked like it walked off the set of a Pride & Prejudice movie. I will say based on the reactions I get from people I nailed it.
Next is something most visitors don't even see themselves: the view from the checkout desk. This is where you will find me most days waiting to greet you with a smile. When I look at images from the shop on the first day I am kind of astonished at how much has changed over the course of three very quick years. I am very proud of how the shop has evolved and I am reminded everyday that without customers like you (especially if you are still reading this!) my shop would be an empty sad place.
Before signing the lease for the shop I did insist on including one stipulation: I needed to be sure I could grow a shop garden at the corner. This corner was very sad for so long and a little off the beaten path. I really wanted something that would catch the attention of passerby's while also beautifying the corner. The garden includes native plant species and annuals that at this point are mostly self-sowing. This year there have been a few little goldfinches really enjoying themselves munching on the sunflowers.
Lastly, I leave you with a couple of up-close images from our current window display. I usually change the window display out twice a year. And while the first two windows featured very large paper flowers I have started making tinier and tinier things. If you ever do make it to the shop and you see something in the window you may want to take home please ask me. As soon as the pieces come out of the window I try to rehome them! I can't keep everything.
I hope you enjoyed this little tour of the shop. Thanks for being here.