We're happy to announce the re-imagining of the upstairs. This freshly remodeled space features new furniture co-existing with amazing antiques, just the way they would be in your own home. Watch in the coming weeks for the unveiling of a space where we merge the comforts of today with the beauty of yesterday. 

Not only is booth 529 a new booth but they are also our featured dealer! You may have seen Tammy around the mall, as she is also a new staff member. We're excited for the addition of her booth! It offers loads of fabulous vintage clothing, hats, purses and accessories! Be sure to check it out next time you're in the mall.   

Being a Maid of Honor isn't just about privilege and support, it also is about responsibility.  In fact, one of the most important parts of the bride's experience is on the shoulders of the Maid of Honor, the bridal shower.  In this month's newsletter we've already suggested some helpful hints to get you started, like using old items as an inexpensive alternative decoration and favor/prize. Because, let's face it, when you decide to create your own decorations it can be time consuming.  But don't fret, by using the items you recreate as door prizes and/or favors as decorations, you save time and money!  Below are too easy-to-do DIY projects that will ensure your bride's shower is customized just for her.


This first example, photo frames as decor, is quite simple to accomplish.  The first step is deciding what you would like to frame.  To continue our example of an Irish Blessing themed shower, we chose to use Irish Blessings in the frames, which will be strategically placed around the venue lit with tea candles.  Second, find a great antique mall like SAM and buy frames.  Don't be afraid to have them mix and match in size, color, or material.  We do recommend having some consistency to keep theme.  For example, if you decided to have all different colors and sizes, you may want to have the same material.  Third, print, cut, and place your inserts into the frames and you have beautiful, meaningful decor that can be sent home with your guests as favors or door prizes.    

The second project, mason jar glasses, is a little more labor intensive, but not much, and it is so fun and the results are so cute you won't even realize your working.  Just like the frames, the mason jars can be used at the shower (to hold beverages), but sent home with the guests as favors.  It's easy as can be to take a plain old, mason jar and turn it into something personalized.  First, a chalkboard label was placed on the jar so that guests can write their names on their drinks and keep track of them.  Then, just a few accent buttons around the sticker were added.  Lastly, a simple hemp bow was tied around the neck of the jar.  The result is an adorable drinking glass that will always remind the bride's family and friends of that special time.

As we’re sure many of you have heard George Lentz, our most senior floorwalker, fell on the ice while being a Good Samaritan and salting a neighbor’s driveway late last month. Although George had to undergo surgery, he came through with flying colors, and after a few minor setbacks he is well on the way to recovery. George is currently at a rehab facility working fulltime on his physical therapy and should be back in the mall in another 4-6 weeks.

Anyone who knows George won’t be surprised to hear that his positive attitude has brought joy to everyone whose path he has crossed throughout his recovery process.  George is, of course, already looking to take his injury and turn it into something positive. He told us that he has met many seniors in the rehab facility who aren’t as fortunate as him, who don’t receive any visitors to break up their long days and weeks. George hopes to go back and visit those around us who are often forgotten. I know that I was inspired by George’s resolution to help however he could. So, the next time you’re out running errands grab a plant or a crossword book and stop by your local nursing home or rehab facility and ask if there is a resident who could use a visitor. Who knows?  You might make a new friend or just brighten someone’s day.  Share a little kindness on behalf of someone who shows everyone he comes across kindness.  Do it for George.

George wanted to thank everyone for all of their care and concern and to let everyone know he missed them and will be back at the mall as soon as possible.   George is up to receiving visitors, but does ask that visitors’ focus on the positivity and healing rather then discussing tiresome details of his fall and surgery. 

Now that we have set the clocks ahead we can look forward to the approach of spring showers. But it’s not only rain showers on the horizon; it’s wedding showers too! If you’re lucky enough to be the maid of honor the planning of the shower is your responsibility, but don’t feel overwhelmed we’re here to help.  This month we’re going to show you some helpful hints to throw an eco-friendly and budget-conscious bridal shower that will be the talk of all your friends.

The foundation of a memorable shower is selecting the right theme. Pick a theme that has personal significance to the bride. For instance, consider highlighting the bride’s heritage, this can be an excellent way to provide a personalized shower that both celebrates where they came from and where they are going.  In honor of St. Patty’s day we’ll use an Irish theme in our DIY projects.

Consider using a variety of vintage serving dishes including all different types of shapes, sizes, and colors.  This creates an eclectic visual look that is always in style.  Continue to incorporate elements of the bride’s personality even at the buffet table. Does she love to read? Use stacks of books under serving dishes, which will both, add more height variance and cleverly carry your theme throughout the party. Does your bride have a sweet tooth? Think outside the box and instead of a sheet cake have a candy bar. Fill tall vases with colorful layers of candy, provide scoops, and containers and let your guest make their own candy favors.  If the bride is passionate about protecting the environment, be sure to make her shower green. Instead of using expensive and wasteful paper products pick up a mix and match china set for a low price. Since you bought it for the occasion you won’t be heartbroken if they get chipped or broken and you can stick them in the dishwasher and use them again or even give them to the bride.

No matter what the guest of honor’s special thing is find a way to highlight it and celebrate it. Allow what makes the bride unique to make her shower unique too. Don’t forget that the staff at the Southport Antique Mall are happy to help you find whatever you need to make that shower special.