Some junkers aren’t into antique stores. Some feel they are overpriced. Some think antique stores are sensory overload. Some think they are the best thing since sliced bread.
Antique stores to me, are where I learned to love junk. When I was a kid, I would visit antique stores with my mom and take in all the history of the items inside. I loved to think about how life was “back then.”
My mom and I would pick out interesting little items for her printer’s drawer. Sometimes they would be souvenirs from the trip we were on, sometimes they were just bizarre, so we had to have them.
And now, even though I love getting a great deal on junk and typically won’t buy something unless it’s next to free, I shop antique stores differently. Antique stores are where I buy things solely based on the way they speak to me. I’m not there to get the best deal… I’m there to find treasures that have little purpose other than to make me smile or bring back a particular memory.
Like these owls. I gravitated toward their spunky hot pink bellies. I am not a collector of salt and pepper shakers. But these owls told me they wanted to come home with me. So, I bought them. Now that I have them, they not only make me happy because they are cute, but they also remind me of the trip when I found them. Sarah and I went on what felt like a wild goose chase (we were led to a “crap” store, instead of a junk store, if you know what I mean) but wound up finding a unique antique store on our way back home and we left with some treasures anyway.
I’m interested to hear how you shop antique stores. Are you there for a deal? Do you go with a mission? Or do you let things “speak” to you?
Laura Caroon is a tree hugger with a passion for reclaiming junk and making it fabulous. When not dreaming of junk, you can find her downtown Fargo, ND at
I love junk and obtaining it. Today, downsizing and leaving behind accumulatations opens up opportunity for those of us who feel no need to declutter. I wish to have no method in much so would never have a list or try to examine method of shopping. Keep these pictures coming and continue your great effort here.
I am so excited to find other junk lovers in Fargo! I am a transplant from another state and have been looking for stores like yours. I can’t wait to visit your store. Love the blog!
Thanks Bonny! Our next occasional sale will be:
Thursday, Sept. 20: 5-8 p.m.
Friday, Sept. 21: 10 a.m.- 6 p.m.
Saturday, Sept. 22: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
We hope to see you there! We’re at 11 8th Street South in Fargo, ND.