With the arrival of Amazon, the art of in-person shopping has nearly fallen by the wayside in our society. Gone are the days of browsing; the immediacy and convenience of delivery or curbside pickup and scrolling have replaced “just looking.”
Our country was built on the backs of small businesses. Relationships built through neighbors buying from and supporting neighbors is foundational to a vibrant community of personal, local commerce.
If you appreciate items that hold a story from their past and enjoy purchasing articles that were someone’s precious property a hundred years ago, you understand the rich reward of rehoming an antique. Recognizing the fine character of the imperfect captures you and leads you to a place where you appreciate a spot of rust or vintage dust.
Sometimes, these heirlooms connect us to our past or aid in the recall of a specific memory. For others, an item offers a rare glimpse into a time never experienced. Could walking through an antique store offer a sensation like that of a time machine?
If you are contemplating bringing home a new old treasure, we offer this short list of neighboring small businesses that will delight the senses and inspire your hunt!
Century Antiques & Warehouse One 445 & 449 Century Ave. SW
With the quaint and creaky wooden floor underfoot, it’s easy to spend hours wandering the many attractive nooks brimming with items from years ago—two businesses in one very large brick building near downtown GR.
The Honeysuckle Co. 3900 Costa Ave. NE
This glistening gem is hidden in plain view right off the bustle of Plainfield, NE. They refer to themselves as a creative collaboration of vintage home goods & local gifts. We refer to them as awesome!
Short drive – Big finds – Near Grand Rapids
North Star Antiques – 211 W. Main St. Lowell
A lovely consignment shop nestled in the cozy downtown of Lowell. The displays are well organized, making the shopping experience sheer bliss. Visit their Estate Room for household finds or the Man Cave for sports, car & military collectibles.
Bostwick Lake Antiques – 8451 Belding Rd. NE Rockford
Seeking an extraordinary piece of regal history for your home? This place needs your attention. Rustic to delicate; if they don’t have it, they will help you find it.
Pathway Market 1519 Jackson St. Marne, MI
This store offers an ever-changing assortment of previously loved items. Featuring quality & unique estate, consignment, and thrift treasures at an affordable price.
If you visit any of these fine establishments, please tell them you heard about them here. So, they feel supported by another small, local business. Happy Antiquing!