Growing Pains and the Benefits That Follow

Change isn't always easy.

I'm grateful that this change was relatively smooth.

It started with whitewashing the walls in my smaller booth at 4th Street Antiques. 

The wood walls were too dark and confining for my taste. I wanted to freshen it up and create a more open looking space. So, in mid January, we started the project. 

When whitewashing you start with applying the paint to the wood.

Then, while the paint is still wet, you spray it with water and wipe it with a cloth towel or rag, using long smooth strokes. It gets messy, so I recommend wearing gloves.

With whitewashing,  the grain of the wood still shines through while still having a brightening effect. This all took about 45 minutes with 3 people. Thanks, Chuck! Thanks, little sis!

About 2 weeks later, I was approached by the stores owners. They said that they knew I had been wanting a bigger space where I could consolidate my two booths into one. Another vendor had been wanting a smaller space and the owners said they thought it might be a perfect swap and asked if I was interested. I told them I would think about it.

Redecorating is always fun. Finding new ways to arrange and present my antiques gives me a sense of pride in my work. It has its frustrating moments -like trying to find a place for everything- but it's so worth it to see the finished product! 

When we were rehanging the merchandise I noticed that this poinsettia painting was leaning outward a bit, which meant the wall was a bit unstable. Nothing to worry about immediately, I thought. 

UNTIL...

In mid February it fell and broke a piece of glassware that was from the 1880s-1890s. My heart was broken. You all know how I feel about antique glass! It was my fault for not having it in a protective case, but it was too late to save it. 

That's when I decided it was time to make the move.

The booth looks so naked and small. It's impressive what a little strategic placement and color can do. I talk about that often in my videos and here's the proof. I still love those walls , though. Maybe I'll white wash the new booth's walls , too. Not right now though! 

You know the first thing in the new booth was my Chalky Chicks paint! I will always be a fan.

Trying to find a place for everything while actively moving spaces was a challenge but we were up for it. In just 2 hours we were able to finess the new booth into a beautiful presentation. It's so open, airy, and fresh and I feel revitalized. 

Also look how cute her booth space is. I love what she's done with the place!

Our old booths were our home for 2 years but I am so happy with how the new booth turned out and I'm excited to maximize the room I have now. Why don't you come visit us sometime? ♡