When you hear the word “Antique,” what do you think of? Old, out of date, or something in your grandmother’s house? What about classic, valuable, treasures, collectibles, perseverance and forever beautiful? When I asked around on Facebook and Twitter I got quite the answers. Most said “classic or collectible,” a few said “old,” and probably my favorite was from my friend Stephen who said, “Antiques, like a good piece of art, have the ability to be a vehicle to another time. Especially if it’s a Delorian. Then it’s literal.” 😉
What once was thought to be just a hobby for the older generations, now is becoming increasingly popular with the newer generations. The world of interior design, DIY projects and hand-made items has greatly helped to push this along; and I couldn’t be more excited! For me, the excitement comes from the anticipation of the hunt, never knowing what little treasure I will find! My crafty armoire has become filled with my “timeless treasures” that I have found along the way.
So where am I going with this “antique doesn’t mean old” business? Whenever I get the glorious chance to have a mommy alone time date, I immediately head down to Modesto’s Antique Emporium on J st. This amazingly large building is packed to the gills with every sort of fabulous treasure you could hope to find! Sadly, most don’t realize what they are missing when they walk by thinking it is just a building filled with expensive furniture. Whenever I walk through those doors, I walk into a place of magic. The emporium has two levels and each is filled with special pieces just waiting to be taken into your home. Yes, it does have furniture, but it also holds cases of gorgeous sparkly jewelry, stacks of beautiful china plates, cupboards and nooks of ribbons, buttons and bling and more story filled nik-naks than you can imagine. But it isn’t just a place for the collectibles and classics. A new genre has been added that most do not even realize! Uniquely handmade beauties of all sorts line refurbished furniture, and baskets and jars are filled with special embellishments to excite any crafter! This wonderful place has the feel of a well done antique store, but also of a beautiful boutique or cozy yard sale!
Today just happened to be one of those special mommy moment days and they graciously allowed me to take pictures along my journey to share with you, so sit back and enjoy ’cause I took quite a few! 🙂
I have recently become in love with this type of glass collection, but before today, didn’t know what it was called. Candlewick resembles hobnail (which I also love) and has a timeless and classic look about it! I found a whole collection and bits and pieces throughout the store! Christmas presents for me? 🙂
And these, dear readers, are the treasures I came home with: 1 beautiful floral china piece, 4 sparkly antique (classic not old) postcards, and 1 darling bouquet of flowers! Though I never leave without some new treasure 😉
So, If you have not yet, I HIGHLY recommend you hop in your car, grab a yummy latte on your way and visit the Antique Emporium! I promise you will not be disappointed and I would love if you came back and shared your experience and any new special items you may have found! Remember, antique-ing as I call it, or the blissful act of treasure hunting for those classic and timeless story filled treasures, is for everyone who is young of age and young at heart!
