Wrentham Country Store

A Holiday Thank You

2011-12-24T16:15:00.000-05:00

I just want to take this time to thank Sandi, A Cottage Muse, for working with me at the shop today until 2:15pm on Christmas Eve. We always have those last minute shoppers coming in to make sure that they haven't missed a thing before Christmas Day.

THANK YOU SANDI!!!

Thank you also, to Lee, one of the Shop Girls, who stopped by the shop today with a tray of homemade cookies. Yummy!

I also want to thank all our customers who made this Holiday Season one of our best.

From my home to yours. I want to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Healthy and Happy New Year!!!

This is one of my loves, Clarence (AKA Big Boy), the cross eyed cat.

Holiday Happenings

2011-12-19T20:41:00.000-05:00

Where does the time go? I can't believe that Christmas is only a few days away. There is still so much more I want to do. Only time will tell if I get it all done. I haven't been blogging much lately, because of my crazy schedule. But, I wanted to show a few pictures of the shop and one of our special visitors during our Holiday Vintage Market Open House a few weeks ago.

I'm on the left, Shop Girl Sandi, aka, A Cottage Muse, in the center, and Sandy Foster, blogger from My Shabby Streamside Studio, is on the right. Sandy has been featured in many magazines and books and The Nate Berkus Show. Sandy was at our shop to see if Shop Girl Sandi would help her sell one of her beautiful mirrors. The mirror is hanging in Sandy's booth now, it is just exquisite. It was an honor to have Sandy and her sister Nicki in our shop and also and honor to have a chance to sell one of her mirrors.

If that wasn't enough excitement for awhile, we have also had one of the best holiday seasons ever. The Shop Girls have done a tremendous job with their booths.

The Winner Is..............

2011-12-04T22:06:00.000-05:00

Ever since we were voted as one of the Top 80 Antique Malls in the country by Flea Market Magazine, I wanted to do something special for our customers. So, I decided to have a drawing for a $100 gift certificate to the shop. Well, tonight, as we closed the shop, I drew the name of the winner. We had over 1200 names in the basket.

And the winner is..........Dianne Freed. Congratulations Dianne.

Holiday Market & Sale

2011-12-03T00:28:00.000-05:00

The Shop Girls have been bringing in some amazing things for our week long Holiday Market and Sale, starting tomorrow. Here are a few pictures that I took of all the goodies.

I just got home a little while ago, another late night at the shop. Trying to get everything ready for tomorrow's big sale. We hope to see all our friends and loyal customers at our Open House. Happy Shopping!!!

Buying Trip to New Hampshire

2011-11-20T12:50:00.000-05:00

My junking buddy, Sandi, and I, went up to New Hampshire on Friday. We had a blast. Our first stop was at White Home Collection. Wow!!! We really did very well there.

We were greeted by these great red tables. We were in heaven, and the shop wasn't even open yet.

This white shabby bench came home with me. I will probably bring it in for our Holiday Open House on Dec. 3.

Everywhere we looked, the displays were wonderful. Soooo inspiring.

I loved this old metal mailbox filled with greens.

We also went to another shop in Petersborough, Twin Elms Farm. We got some great stuff there too.

There's Sandi walking into this gift shop we saw. I had to take a picure of the wrought iron fence, it was stunning.

Time to Get Ready for the Holiday Market & Sale

2011-11-15T19:58:00.000-05:00

The Shop Girls are bringing in some great finds, getting ready for our Holiday Market, to be held December 3 - 11.

All I Want for Christmas is My Two Front Teeth

2011-11-13T12:59:00.000-05:00

I was having such a great day today. I woke up early, and went to the flea market with Ray. I got some really cool stuff. The sun was out. We stopped at a bakery on the way home. I was just having a snack before I headed into the shop, for the afternoon. I took a bite out of a beautiful piece of Italian bread, when....................

I heard a crack, I knew it was my front tooth. Now I have to go into the shop looking like I live in the backwoods of West Virginia. And, I also have to go to a wake after I close the shop. Oh well, I guess things could be worse. At least I can still laugh about it.

New Fall Finds

2011-11-12T01:03:00.000-05:00

After the first storm of the season, we lost the electricity at the shop for two days,
(a shopkeepers worst nightmare).

Thank goodness, we've been having a really good two weeks.

Everyone has been bringing in some great things, gearing up for the holidays.

We have three new Shop Girls, Patricia, Louise and Debbie. They are a great addition to our shop.

Some of the Shop Girls moved into new spaces.

Can't wait to see what everyone is going to do for Christmas.

The outdoor flea markets are winding down (I'm very sad about that). Went to one last Sunday with my husband, it was 27 degrees. But it didn't matter, the thrill of the hunt was still there. That is where I get my best finds. So, now I will be visiting other vintage shops instead, (at least it will be warmer, and I'm sure to find some great stuff.)

Everyone Has a Sign

2011-10-18T23:20:00.000-04:00

Before the Vintage Fall Market Weekend, I had asked all the Shop Girls to name their booths. The names and signs were so creative.

This is Nancy D.'s sign. It is one of my favorite names. Simple, elegant, and I would kill for that frame.

Nancy also has this wonderful vintage Underwood typewriter on a great oak desk.

I've never seen such a pristene antique slip. If only I had a tiny waist. I would wear it proudly with my cowboy boots.

Martha made her Abode banner. It suits her perfectly.

Pam's sign is wonderful. Everyone wants to buy the small black shutter.

Nancy J. has been to the Paris Flea Markets and wanted to display her wares like they do in Paris. She also calls her space by a Stall #, #13NBJ.

The original blog queen at the shop, Sandi, A Cottage Muse, just adorable.

Karen K. has two booths. The Eclectic Palette fits her perfectly.

Maureen or Auntie Moe's booth always looks amazing.

Chanel's Shabby Rose has just gone into a new space in the shop. Mary was working on it when I left the shop tonight. I can't wait to see what she has created tomorrow.

Jackie, Bluebird Studios, has two spaces with very creative signs.

If you know Jeannie, you would know that this tiny sign "Garden Room Interiors" is hers. Not overstated, simple, elegant and pure precious.

Tumblebrook, is the name of Susan N. space in the front room.

I am The Vintage Shopkeeper. Sandi's husband, Jim, hung the sign up for me. He did a wonderful job. I also bought my initials made out of galvanized steel roofing at Brimfield. I was going to put them in my shed, but I decided to put them in my space instead.

A Vintage Fall Market Weekend

2011-10-10T00:48:00.000-04:00

The shop's Vintage Fall Market Weekend is well under way, with one day to go. I did snap some pictures before we opened the doors. I had asked everyone to re-do their spaces with fresh merchandise and new displays, and all the Shop Girls blew me away with what they created.

Martha made some great burlap banners. She's going to make me a vintage banner for my new shed. I can't wait!!!

This 6' harvest table in Jeannie's booth, sold the first day.

Practically all of Mary's (Chanel's Shabby Rose) old clock parts flew out the door.

Getting ready for the "Vintage Fall Market Weekend"

2011-10-03T22:43:00.000-04:00

All the Shop Girls have been working very hard to get ready for our "Vintage Fall Market Weekend" coming up this Sat., Sun. and Mon. Some great finds have already been arriving.

Can't wait to see all the other things that the Shop Girls will be bringing in.

Muddy, Muddy, Muddy and Stinky too, but still a Blast!!!

2011-09-12T19:34:00.000-04:00

I went to Brimfield with Shop Girls, Nancy D. and Karen K. The first thing you notice driving into the Brimfield area, was the devastation from the tornado's. It looked like a war zone. But the day was sunny and we traveled on to the Flea Market. It had been raining there for 3 days, so we went with our rain boots in tow, thank you Yvonne from Shabby Fifi. Good thing, what a mess. But it was a successful shopping day. Lots of ideas and goodies for the Fall Show in October.

This beautiful old dress form was in Shabby Fifi's Booth. It was the best thing that I had seen all day. Yvonne had some great stuff in her tent. Here are some more pictures of her booth, and this was the first time that she did Brimfield. Way to go, Yvonne!!!

There's Shop Girl Karen aka A Shabby Moment in Time, doing some damage in Quaker Acres.

Did I tell you that I found a fantastic booth, just filled with cowboy boots.

These are the two pairs that I brought home for myself. Yahoo!!

This is Jackie's (Bliss Farm) tent. She also had some beautiful things.

These were some other booths that I thought were really great.

I regret not buying these huge sunflower heads. They were spectacular.

Like I said before, I had a great day of shopping. Here are some of the treasures that I bought for the WCS Shop Girls Present A Fall Vintage Market Weekend in October.

I am keeping a few things for myself, like this cement crown. Should have bought a few of these.

I found this guy who cut out letters out of old galvanized steel. My initials will be going into my shed.

We Really Wanted to be Open, We Really Did

2011-09-01T10:20:00.000-04:00

What a week!!!! Hurricanes, Earthquakes, No Electricity, and YES, there is some good, no, GREAT NEWS! First, the shop has not been open from last Sunday until yesterday because (boo hoo) no power. WE WILL BE OPEN TODAY!!! YEH!!!
The GREAT news is......................The Shop made the list of Readers' 80 Favorite Antiques Malls in the FLEA MARKET STYLE MAGAZINE, the fall/winter issue that is on newstands now. I am Over the Moon, Giddy with Happiness, I want to Scream it from the Rooftops!!! We're definitely going to CELEBRATE this accomplishment. I'll let you know what we'll be doing to show our appreciation to all our customers who submitted our Shop.
We will also be trying to get ready for our BIG Labor Day Sale this weekend, (and into next week too). We'll be clearing out old stock, making room for some Fabulous Fall Shopping for our customers.
Next week is Brimfield. So there will definitely be some great things coming into the shop in the coming weeks. BRIMFIELD OR BUST!!! WOO HOO!!!

WEEKEND FINDS

2011-08-22T20:51:00.000-04:00

I love hunting through my favorite flea markets every weekend. Here are just a few of my recent finds.

The other Shop Girls have also been searching out some terrific weekend finds. This is what they have been bringing in.

Vacation Photos

2011-08-07T20:31:00.000-04:00

Last week, I took my parents on a canal cruise in Onset.

I've been on vacation for the last week. My sister and three of her four children came to visit from PA. We took a lot of day trips.

Being from Attleboro, my sister wanted to take her kids to see LaSalette Shrine.

My sister and her kids on the Mayflower.

Still in Plymouth.

There we are in Fall River at Battleship Cove.

Under the cannons on the USS Massachusetts.

At the Battleship Cove, there is a 1920's carousel. We all took a ride.

Capron Park Zoo in Attleboro is really impressive. Joey, Sarah and Anna are in front of one of the exhibits.

Tomorrow is back to reality and my full time job. Back to working on my shed. I had the inside of it painted white. I'll be showing pictures of how it's coming along soon.

Shed Update

2011-07-19T23:18:00.000-04:00

The other day, Ray and I shoveled 5 yards of natural stone around the shed. Ray thought, this is what it must feel like to be on a chain gang. But, as you can see, it was well worth the effort. I also had some extra pavers and scalloped edging from other areas in the yard. I bought these rusty garden gates in Brimfield, a few years ago. They look much better in front of the shed, then where they were.

My New Garden Shed

2011-07-15T22:52:00.000-04:00

I've been wanting a shed for a long time now. It's hard to believe, but I actually have time to garden.

This is the space behind the garage that I recently cleared out for my new shed. This is what the space looked like at 7:30am this morning.

This is my shed at 12:30pm. I couldn't be any happier. I have many vintage garden things, that I've been collecting over the years. Now I'll have a place to put them. This is also going to be a little sactuary for me to work on some of my creations for the shop and for my home.

The next step, is to paint the entire inside, of course, white. Then I can start filling it up with my tools, gloves, and my collection.

This isn't old, but it has a great look. I bought it from Jackie, at the shop, to put in front of the shed with some flower pots in it. I can't wait to start decorating.

I'll be showing you more as the shed progresses.

Hot! Hot! Hot!

2011-07-11T21:03:00.000-04:00

I'm not just talking about the weather. The Shop Girls have been bringing in some great things, for those lazy, hazy days of summer.

"Firecracker of a Sale"

2011-06-27T21:58:00.000-04:00

The porch is full of great garden items. Just in time for our upcoming, "Firecracker of a Sale", on Saturday and Sunday. The shop is also exploding with vintage finds of all kinds.

I love these white shabby horseshoes sitting in a safe deposit box, in Sandi's (A Cottage Muse) booth, just adorable.

Karen did some fluffing of her booth the other day. It looks great.

I found this old bed spring the other day. I'm using it in my new space to hang things off of.

This is a child's size dresser in Karen's booth. I can see it in a garden shed, with seed packets and garden gloves in the drawers. It would also look great in a bathroom, with hand towels or soaps in it. How cute!!

The very talented Jeannie, made this summer lamp shade. If I had a house at the Cape, this lamp would be in it.

Mary has this great kidney shaped desk in her booth.

Happy Fourth of July!! Hope to see everyone this weekend.

Firecracker of a Sale

2011-06-20T20:09:00.000-04:00

The Fourth of July will be here before you know it. The girls at the shop are getting ready for our annual "Firecracker of a Sale" on July 2 & 3.

Vintage Hats Anyone?

2011-06-12T21:53:00.000-04:00

Today, at the shop, we were all in a very silly mood. Karen, A Shabby Moment in Time, brought in some great vintage hats, all with veils. We decided to wear them all afternoon. I don't know if it helped with sales, but we sure gave the customers a good laugh.

Karen C., Karen P. & me

Screams from Customers

2011-06-12T10:53:00.000-04:00

Yesterday, was a little nerve racking for me, not knowing if the new space would be accepted with as much enthusiasm as I had for it. Well.....

The first customer of the day came in. Her name is Kelly McGuill, www.kellymcguillhome.com, she does photo styling, set designing and interior decorating for many big name clients, (just take a look at her website, wow!). She was buying items for a photo shoot for a Yankee magazine cookbook, due out in November. She knew just what she was looking for. She started grabbing items out of my new space right away, and she said I had great taste. Coming from Kelly, and after looking at her website, that means a lot to me. So, she bought all of the ironstone I had, and also throughout the shop. Some of the items were for the photo shoot and some for herself. She also bought the display rack shown below. Thank you Kelly for stopping in!!

(yellow one sold)

Then, two of my favorite and best customers came in, Kathy and Lori. When they walked into the space, I could hear screams of delight. I knew then, it was the right direction to go in.

(sold)

(one sold)

If it wasn't raining today, I would be at the flea market, buying up more stuff for this space. Well, there is always next week (and the rest of the summer).

Creating a New Space

2011-06-11T08:24:00.001-04:00

I had a space at the shop that was filled with china and glassware. So I decided to pack it all up, donate it to Angelcat Haven in Plainville, for their annual yard sale, and try a new look.

This was the empty space.

I've been planning this for a while now, so I have been on the hunt for some unusual things to fill the space.

I found some great old store displays.

There are many rusty pieces that I found.

I have more shopping to do to fill the space, but I think everyone will see the direction I am going in.

I want to thank my good friend Donna and her daughter Lauren, for helping me move the big pieces out. And, I also want to thank my husband, Ray, for staying at the shop with me until 10:00 last night, helping me re-arrange.

I'll take some more pictures today.

The House of My Dreams

2011-05-30T21:51:00.000-04:00

When I came home on Sunday, from the flea market, I saw a sign that made my heart skip a beat. The sign, an Open House, at my dream home. I was already running late, but I just had to stop. This house, in Attleboro, is the former home of the Garner's, from the Leach and Garner jewelry factory family. The realtor, Bob Houle, not only let me take pictures for this blog, but he gave me the grand tour. I am so greatful for the opportunity to view the house. It was a thrill beyond belief. I've lived in Attleboro, most of my life, and this is the house, if I win the lottery, that I would love to own. Actually, they are only asking $399,000 for the house, which is unbelievable. It's a lot of house and land for the money. I want to move!!

This is the grand entrance.

Yes, there is a brass elevator in the foyer, for the three levels. The top level, of course, is for the staff.

The house was built in 1912, and this is one of the original porcelain bathtubs.

Upstairs, the men would retire to the pool room. The light fixture is the only thing left in the room. It's stunning.

I felt like I was at a mansion in Newport. This is the side porch. I can only imagine the parties they had out there.

Only to have a butler's pantry.

Wouldn't a summer porch be wonderful on those hot nights. This is one of two.

The grounds are impeccable. The property even has it's own pond.

A view from the back of the house.

The two summer porches on the side of the house.

Weekend Finds at the Shop

2011-05-22T22:52:00.000-04:00

Sue brought in this childs' desk yesterday. The original green paint is fabulous.

The perfect accessory for any garden.

A vintage corner wicker hamper with many layers of white paint. And underneath pink!

After bringing this dresser in, I decided that I just might keep it for myself.

Nancy brought in this great cottage drop leaf kitchen table with two hand painted chairs.

This metal wire carry all would be great for plants or to hold glasses for a garden party.

What a great bistro chair in Sue's booth.

Many times I can only find the tops of old birdcages. But this would look great on an ironstone plate or a mirrored tray.

Jeanine brought in this old rusty tin. You can still see the name on the front. What a great planter that would make.

The original green color on this planter is wonderful. A great piece for any porch.

I've been looking at this mirror that Jeannie brought in. I just love it.

Mary just brought in some great vintage cameras. A few already sold today.

Martha has this beautiful dresser in her space. I don't think it will be there long.

With yard sale and flea market season in full bloom, the shop girls are doing a fantastic job bringing in the most unique items for their booths. I'm so proud of all of them.

SHABBY FIFI

2011-05-20T22:49:00.000-04:00

A fabulous shop, Shabby Fifi, has opened in Seekonk that you just have to visit. If you love Shabby Chic, French Apartment, Cottage style, this shop is a must. I stopped by there today, and took some great pictures. If you're in the area, stop by and say hello to Yvonne and her sweet dogs. Located at 642 Fall River Avenue, Seekonk, MA.

Brimfield was ............

2011-05-14T21:52:00.000-04:00

great!! I went on Friday, with some friends from the shop. It was sunny, hot, exciting and exhausting, all at the same time. We didn't see Ralph Lauren or Martha Stewart, but it was great fun. I took pictures of booths that were interesting and inspirational.

This handpainted wood bench was beautiful. A little out of my price range, at $800.

Corrabelle Roses' Booth in New England Motel, just beautiful.

I was thrilled to meet Tot from Time Worn Interiors, http://www.timeworninteriors.blogspot.com/

Her booth in New England Motel was industial inspirational, just beautiful!

Some pictures from French Curiosites, http://www.curiosities.typepad.com/. I actually bought the cement urn on the left side of the table. Love it!!

These are pictures of some of the things that I bought, that are now in the shop.

I just had to have this silverplate coffee warmer.

This is an old berry crate.

This was the first thing that I bought. A chippy metal stool.

Another chippy metal stool. For some reason, I guess I'm drawn to them.

An old cabinet door with chicken wire, that could be used as a note holder.

A great green painted plant stand with some industrial metal drawers from a factory on top.

Another note holder, made from an old rusty metal paper tray.

I love these french style clocks.

I bought this from French Curiosites. This has not made it into the shop just yet.

I did get some great ideas from Brimfield. Coming back from a trip like that, always makes me want to do better, create more, inspire and raise the bar.

Can't Wait

2011-05-09T21:55:00.000-04:00

I can hardly wait to go to Brimfield this week.

But, until I get there and show you what I bought (hopefully tons), I'll show you some of the new things that have arrived at the shop within the last couple of days.

I'm hoping I can find equal fabulous stuff.

What am I saying.... it's BRIMFIELD, it's AMERICA,

of course I will.

GOD BLESS AMERICA

I found these fabulous cowboy boots this past weekend. They haven't landed in the shop yet (not sure that they will), but just couldn't resist.

Celebrating A Royal Wedding

2011-04-26T23:01:00.000-04:00

In honor of the Royal Wedding this week, Maureen and I decided to decorate the front window of the shop in a British theme fit for a Prince and Princess. Maureen just happened to have a British flag, how appropriate for the occasion.

We have the dress.

We have the crowns.

We have the royal jewelry.

Furniture fit for a king.

The silverware.

The Holy Bible.

Everything you need for a Royal Wedding.

I can't wait to see the wedding of William and Kate this Friday. I hope in some way, we have brought a little bit of London to Wrentham, for a very special occasion.

HAPPY EASTER TO EVERYONE

2011-04-24T21:01:00.000-04:00

Today, for Easter, we went to Ray's cousins house in W. Roxbury. There must have been 35 people there. Since I went to baking school, I have a great appreciation for lovely cakes. This cake was one of the highlights of the day (for me anyways). It dwarf all the other desserts there. It was nice to have the day off to spend with family and friends. But, tomorrow it's back to work and I can't wait to see what is new in the shop.

Even though the White Show was a huge undertaking (and a huge success) the girls have not let up one bit. There are some fantastic pieces coming in all the time.

More Eye Candy from the White Show

2011-04-15T21:51:00.000-04:00

A little bit of Texas in Wrentham.

Jeannie's space was beautiful.

How did that pink furniture sneak in??

A collection of clocks, from Sandi's (A Cottage Muse) space.

Jeannie had a great space. Practically sold out.

French inspired gift tags in a wire flower cart.

Every cloche sold right away.

Pearls, pearls and more pearls.

This is in front of the tent. As you can see, it was a beautiful sunny day.

Pearls on driftwood. It was a piece of architecture.

This little garden cherub sold right away.

Karen K's booth was a vision of loveliness.

Jeannie set up the front room of the shop in white (and she's a country girl at heart).

Mary had a wonderful space.

Outside of the tent on the second day.

This great tapestry bag is backed with burlap, just beautiful.

Sandi made all these eggs. She is sooo talented.

Garden items in Jeannie's booth sold out immediately.

Mary made all these garden pots. They are so sophisticated.

The front porch was bursting with garden elements.

Maureen and Peter had great pieces of furniture.

Everyone loved the french style desk. It didn't sell, so now it's in my booth in the shop.

Burlap, burlap, everywhere. I just love it.

This was Sue's beautiful space. WOW!

Still riding high from the show. Can't wait to do it again next year.

WOW!! A WEEKEND TO REMEMBER

2011-04-12T23:27:00.000-04:00

"At Home With White"

A dream come true for everyone at the shop. This was one of the most exciting things that we have ever experienced at the shop. The anticipation was electric as everyone waited for the show to start.

My best friend (and best customer) Donna, arrived very early, was sure to be the first in line.

The line was starting to form. It was almost time to start the show.

Karen, a vision in white herself, tends to one of her fabulous vignettes, before the show began.

Jo-Anne Coletti, from a Vintage Rose Collection, made a special trip just to be with us. Thanks, Jo-Anne, it's always a pleasure to see you.

The displays were over the top.

Jeannie painted this beautiful dresser. Everyone was fighting over it.

My husband, Ray, was such a big help. Thank you honey!!

Karen, from A Shabby Moment in Time, had a fantastic space.

Sandi from, A Cottage Muse, had the first space in the tent. What a lovely and welcoming way to enter the show.

Sandi

There's Karen, from A Shabby Moment in Time, in her booth. She created some wonderful garden items.

Diane from Passionate for White, stopped by. She even bought a new outfit for the event.

The tent was packed all day. There's Donna trying to make up her mind.

One of Karen's displays.

Our hard working husbands take a break.

More great vignettes.

Sue surprised everyone with her unique displays.

We had such a great time, this is sure to be an annual show. It was wonderful that all our goods friends/customers came to support our first tent event.

THANK YOU TO EVERYONE FOR YOUR SUPPORT AND LOVE. YOU INSPIRE US TO BE THE BEST WE CAN BE.

PLEASE VISIT THESE LOVELY AND INSPIRING BLOGS, FOR MORE GREAT PICTURES AND DETAILS FROM "AT HOME WITH WHITE"

Sandi from
http://www.acottagemuse.blogspot.com/

Karen from
http://www.ashabbymomentintime.blogspot.com/

Diane from
http://www.passionateforwhite.blogspot.com/

Susan from
http://www.evelynandrose.blogspot.com/

Michelle from
http://www.petitemichellelouise.blogspot.com/

Jo-Anne from
http://www.vintagerosecollection.blogspot.com/

The Set-up begins

2011-04-07T22:33:00.000-04:00

Today the tent arrived for our "At Home With White" Show. I'm so excited, I can't believe the day has finally arrived.

This is what the space looked like before the tent.

Then it arrived. What a thrill!!

There's Mitch, from Norfolk Taylor Rental, putting up the tent. They did such a great job.

There it was, in all its glory. Our home for the next 3 days.

Shop Girls, Nancy D. & Maureen were there to see the raising of the tent. The anticipation was overwhelming.

This area belongs to Karen K. She just started putting items in her space. She has a lot more to bring tomorrow.

There's Maureen in her space. What a great assortment. I can't wait to get a closer look.

There's the big dresser that has been taking up so much room in my garage. (Ray is soooo happy) I covered this old chippy stool with burlap and pom poms.

This is part of Karen K's booth. How sweet!!!

Now we get into the inside of the shop, where everyone has been working so hard to get their booths ready for the big weekend. This is Pam's booth.

This tea cart is in Betsy's space.

Maureen has a little pink thing going on in her booth.

The rest of the Shop Girls will be bringing in their great finds tomorrow, and filling the tent and the shop to the brim. I'll have more pictures for you then.

Getting Ready for the White Show

2011-04-05T15:23:00.000-04:00

I can't believe it is only three more days until the "At Home With White" event. My kitchen is full the basement and the garage. My husband will certainly be glad to move everything out into the tent at the shop. I'm just finishing up pricing a few more things. Take a look.

I have a box of old silverplate pieces. I just can't get enough of it.

I bought a box lot of old cane sugar sacks at an auction a few months ago.

This wicker urn can be used for so many things. Since I'm always looking for farmhouse finds, I picked up this old school chalk box, a wire egg basket and this tin pan.

I found this magazine holder and embellished it with an old clock decal. This beautiful ornate bottle was a real find.

The Shopping Bag

2011-03-28T22:53:00.001-04:00

One of the Shop Girls, Karen K., went to New York this past weekend. Guess where she ended up?

She brought back this shopping bag for me. Thanks, Karen, I just love it.

Spring Open House

2011-03-23T20:37:00.000-04:00

Spring Has Sprung. What a great start to the new season with our Spring Open House last weekend. There's Jeanine on the left, I'm in the middle and our Blog Queen, Sandi (A Cottage Muse) is on the right. We're so glad to have Sandi back working with us. Her enthusium lifted the energy of the store up the minute she walked in.

Everyone had such a good time, and what great spring displays throughout the store.

The garden decor was flying out of the store.

Vintage plant stands and old colanders hold these beautiful plates.

This is our newest dealer, Martha's space. She is sure to do very well. She has already sold quite a few things. And her one of a kind collages are wonderful.

These faux chocolate bunnies, are almost good enough to eat. Jeanine is always coming up with the cutest vignettes.

Sneak Preview

2011-03-13T20:40:00.000-04:00

Just thought that I would share some pictures of the great items coming in this week for our Spring Open House scheduled for next weekend.

This folk art handmade bunny can be found in Jackie's booth.

Karen (A Shabby Moment in Time) brought in this wonderful vintage crackled makeup case. Someone used it for a sewing box, it's just chock full of sewing notions.

Jackie brought in the most beautiful and delicate china. Her new booth is full.

Jeanine created this crate with all pear items in it.

This bust of a woman is in Kathy's booth. Her father won it at a Nantasket Beach carnival in 1945. It's spectacular.

Another sneak preview of an item going into the At Home With White Event.

Spring into a New Look

2011-03-11T22:19:00.000-05:00

Exciting things are happening at the shop. For instance, Karen's (A Shabby Moment in Time) new garden room, filled with vintage garden items. It's a tiny space, and she has only begun to bring things in, but I can already tell that this will be one of my favorite places in the shop to do what else, shop of course.

We also have many spring things coming in every day.

Everyone in the shop is getting ready for two big events. Next weekend, we are having our Spring Open House, and on April 9 & 10, we are holding our first occasional event, At Home With White, a vintage market, under the white tent. I can't wait to see what everyone will bring in. It's all very exciting.

WISHES DO COME TRUE

2011-03-03T22:30:00.000-05:00

Today is my birthday, so my wish was to have my husband take me antiquing for the day. Wishes do come true. We went to New Bedford, and what a wonderful, successful shopping day I had. Most of the items I bought will be for the "At Home With White" event in April. Also, today, something happened that was unbelievable. As we were taking the exit off of 495, a red tailed hawk flew within 10' of the car. What a beautiful sight, I only wish I had my camera out.

This picture doesn't do this French style desk/vanity justice. I'm just crazy about it, so I might just keep it for myself. We'll see....

This printers box with letters and numbers is just fabulous. A great piece for a farmhouse look.

This is what my garage looks like, chock full of goodies for April. I found an industrial work station, a chippy shelf and an antique doll carriage. The inside of the carriage has double seats that are made with beautiful worn aqua leather.

Many things are changing at the shop. Jackie came in tonight to paint her new space. She has great things, I'm sure her booth will look fabulous when finished.

At Home With White

2011-02-21T19:43:00.000-05:00

The girls at the shop have been searching high and low to find unique items for our "At Home With White" tent event, which is scheduled for April 9 & 10. These great vintage dress forms will be among some of the items that will be for sale. All goods in the tent will be fresh stock and not from the shop. Everyone is so excited about this vintage market weekend. We are also carrying the White theme in the shop that weekend. The rest of the pictures are some of the type of items our customers will see that weekend for their homes and gardens. These are pictures of items that are in the shop right now.

2011-01-07T15:05:00.000-05:00

I wanted to start the year off with a bang, instead I'm starting it off with a cough. I've been in bed since Sunday, and just found out today that I have pheumonia. That's not easy for me, since I'm used to running around, multi-tasking every day. But maybe that's why I'm in this position now. I guess this year I need to start taking better care of me. I am spending some wonderful down time with my cats. My big boy, Clarence, hasn't left my side.

Right now at the shop, we are having a huge sale. I wanted to really clear out all the old stuff and start fresh for the spring. One of the trends that I'm seeing, is tent and barn shows that are springing up all over the country. In the recent issue of Romantic Country, there was a section about this trend. The girls at the shop and I have been talking about trying something new. There is a core group of girls at the shop that are always coming up with new and exciting ideas. I love being around them, they always inspire me to be better.

So in the next few weeks my core group of shop girls and myself will be discussing the possibility of having a tent show. We already have a name for it, "At Home with White". This is very exciting for all of us. Now we will be on the hunt for things just for the show. So stay tune for more info on this upcoming show.

2011-01-01T02:00:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year to Everyone

It's hard to believe that another year has come and gone. It seems the older we get, the quicker time goes by. I'm so looking forward to this coming year. There are many exciting plans for the shop. During the holidays, while you're shopping for family and friends, getting the house decorated, baking and still working at two full time jobs, it is hard to find time to go on buying trips for the shop. I know it's far away, but I am always thinking about Brimfield, and how exciting and fun it is to be there. I can't wait to start visiting my favorite shops again and going to the auction and seeing all my old friends.

I hope this year is filled with much happiness and good health for everyone. I send all my love and gratitude to everyone who helped to make this past year one to remember, and for a exciting year to come. Mary Ellen

2010-12-24T19:43:00.000-05:00

I love Christmas, getting together with family and friends, the baking and yes, even the hustle and bustle of shopping. But this year it seemed that time just flew and I didn't have enough time to do the things that I love. So this year we did not even put up our normal tree (for the first time since I can remember). So my decorating is at best minimal. I did put up a small aluminum tree, that I placed in an old wood and wire measure.

These skates on a white shutter are on my front door.

These are old cream bottles with fresh greens and antique glass Christmas balls on an ironstone plate.

This sweet angel sits in my foyer.

This is one of a pair of antique wood stocking dryers. One is on my side door and this one hangs in my living room. I decorated it with fresh greens, twigs and twine.

This is an antique wood shovel, that is decorated with fresh greens and sits on my front porch.

This centerpiece sits on my farm table in the kitchen. I love old silver plate, wire and a touch of glitter.

Most of these pieces I bought at the shop this year. I'm really getting into this french farmhouse look. That is what I am going to concentrate on this coming year. We have some big plans for this coming year at the shop, starting in the spring. It's very exciting, and we hope that all our loyal customers will enjoy what we are planning.

I hope that everyone has a Wonderful Christmas and a Healthy and Inspiring New Year.

Love,

Mary Ellen

A Vintage Holiday Open House

2010-11-12T23:09:00.001-05:00

The Shop's front window.

Everyone has been working so hard creating and buying beautiful Holiday goods for our Open House this weekend. Today was the first day of the sale, and it was a great one. Busy all day, things were just flying out the door. Just wanted to show some of the wonderful displays that the girls have been creating.

This old skate belonged to Karen P. mom. What a cute idea.

One of Jeannie's creations.

Our customers can't get enough of our vintage ornaments.

Lovely shabby pale blue bottlebrush trees and wreaths.

Handmade burlap and toile stockings.

An old tin strainer as a centerpiece.

More vintage ornaments.

Here is our antique cash register all decked out.

There is a small tin porriger from France. How cute is that?

Vintage style aluminum trees and tussie mussies.

Candy canes anyone?

I love these tiny velvet stockings.

Old cupboards filled with sparkling holiday decor.

The girls are bringing in vintage and new holiday decor and gifts everyday. I hope to keep everyone up to date with what is coming in. Enjoy!!!

Halloween was a Blast

2010-11-03T21:04:00.000-04:00

Move over Witches of Eastwick, we are the Witches of Wrentham. Halloween at the shop was a blast. All the girls dressed up as witches, starting on the left, we have Witch Susan, I'm in the middle, and Witch Jeanine is on the right.

I'm sorry I haven't been blogging lately, but time has gotten away from me. Between remodeling the kitchen and my husband having knee replacement surgery, I haven't had much time for anything.

I did take a few pictures at the shop. The shop girls will be outdoing themselves in the upcoming weeks, getting ready for our Vintage Holiday Open House.

Fantastic Trip to Brimfield

2010-09-11T00:29:00.001-04:00

This week a few of the Shop Girls, and some husbands, went to Brimfield. The weather was beautiful and the spirits were high. Here are some pics of some of the sights.

This is John, Nancy's husband, taking a breather and holding one of their finds.

The people from this booth were from Alabama. They had some great displays. This is actually a vintage chicken feeder holding some ironstone platters. I bought some old feeders that are now in my booth holding some beautiful plates.

Vintage dress forms are getting harder and harder to find. Here are some beauties.

Corrabelle Rose, Donna Corrs from Michigan, was there. If you get Romantic Country, you will remember her in Issue No. 112, this past summer. http://www.corrabellerose.blogspot/ I took a lot of pictures in her beautiful booth. I actually bought a small shabby metal cart from her. It is going to be a wonderful addition to a half bath, holding towels and vintage powder tins.

This was a great old cupboard that Corrabelle Rose had in her booth.

Architectural salvage is so big in Brimfield. This was a huge piece. I could see it being used as a head board in someones bedroom.

Jan LaVoie from Painted Prettys in CT, had some great Shabby Chic pieces. I ended up buying a great big old Shabby Chic farm table from her and her friends. Can't wait to put in my kitchen.

There's Jan's reflection in the mirror of this wonderful green vanity.

Ornate upholstered burlap furniture was everywhere. This great couch was being worked on. Wish I had the room for this beauty.

These old factory carts were very popular. People are using them for coffee tables. What a great look.

I hope you have enjoyed all the pics. This was one of the best trips to Brimfield that I have ever had. I went with my friend Donna, and met up with some other Shop Girls, Karen K. and Nancy D. for lunch. I also saw Wanda from White Home Collection. The displays and the ideas that you get from Brimfield are unforgettable. Even if you don't buy a lot, the experience is unbelievable.

The Shop Front Window

2010-08-13T22:02:00.000-04:00

Maureen, Peter and myself changed the front window the other night. This is one of my favorites. Who am I kidding, I love all of them. It is so much fun to create these windows, and then hear what the dealers and customers think about it.

My 15 Minutes of Fame on Fox 25 Zip Trip

2010-08-13T21:48:00.003-04:00

Since I knew Fox 25 Zip Trip was coming to Wrentham on August 6, I decided to email them about the Wrentham Country Store months before hand. Just two days before the show, the producers called me, and asked if I would like to be on the show, live. They told me to bring a table with a few things from the shop, and talk for about 2 minutes. I thought, why not, it would be great publicity for the shop. When I drove up to the common that morning, there were hundreds of people everywhere. I parked the car, and ran over to where they were shooting with my table and box of wares. I had about half an hour to wait, and was I getting nervous.

This nice man standing near me, George Elias of Wrentham, helped me out quite a lot. My mouth was getting dry, and he happen to have a mint on him, and he also took most of these pictures for me. If you go to Fox 25 zip trip.com, you can see the entire interview. It was quite an experience. We actually have had many people come into the shop that saw the show. Some people even wanted to buy exactly what I brought with me that day.

Kim Carrigan of Fox 25 was very gracious. She took endless pictures with everyone.

These are a few of my favorite things................in the shop that is.

2010-08-03T21:27:00.000-04:00

Mary's beautiful shabby chic china cabinet.

In the booth of The Cottage Muse.

Karen found this great mirror at the White Home Collection.

A great shabby chic dresser.

From A Shabby Moment in Time.

What a great way to display jewelry.

Chippy ceiling tin pieces.

A French inspired mantel.

Yes, fall will be here soon.

New room scents from The Crafty Lady, Jeanine. They are wonderful!!!

I love this cute pumpkin head doll.

A vintage cupboard from an old hardware store.

From A Cottage Muse.

Bags of potpourri.

All of these items just arrived this week at the shop. The Shop Girls are always searching out the very best for our wonderful customers. Enjoy!!

The Brocantess

2010-07-24T20:35:00.000-04:00

Thank you so much for the comment, Brocantess. One of my favorite booths in Brimfield was, The Brocantess, who is set up in the New England Motel field, Booth 112. Everything was so inspiring, hence all the wonderful pictures. I will certainly stop by in September with some of the shop girls to see all the lovely wares you have and to say hello. See you in the fall.

THE NEW STOREFRONT WINDOW

2010-07-19T21:11:00.000-04:00

Time to retire the old flag, and bring in the cool aqua window for these hot and humid July days. Thanks to Maureen and Peter, who are always there to lend a helping creative hand. Come take a look, if your in the area.

WHAT WE BROUGHT BACK FROM BRIMFIELD

2010-07-18T22:10:00.000-04:00

I want to share some of the terrific things the Shop Girls bought at Brimfield for our great customers.

A chippy metal dress form.

A great garden ornament.

Farmers old milk can.

Ornate metal frames in an old french lamp shade.

Great aqua glass mason jars. Already sold some for wedding centerpieces.

Old fashion scouring soap in a lovely silverplate basket.

A salesman sample mantel with clock.

This is a great planting bench with a tin insert.

An old medicine cabinet from a doctor's office.

A fabulous vintage green display basket.

A pretty rose pattern tea set from England.

An old silverplate monogrammed cup and cast iron urns.

All special wares for all our special customers. We truly appreciate all the kind words and support from our customers.

ROAD TRIP TO BRIMFIELD

2010-07-18T11:12:00.000-04:00

Even with the high heat, Karen Kinch, one of the shop girls, and myself, went to Brimfield. We shopped separately, but met up for lunch to compare notes. What a great day. These are some of the cool things that I adored, wishing I could buy everything.

If you saw a label, like the one below RASC-338, it meant that Rachel Ashwell was there and bought it.

She had been there for three days, buying shabby chic furniture. Everyone saw her, except for me. Oh, well. I still had a great time.

I also saw a lot of the industrial look, like this one. Big metal factory or medical tables.

Rachel Ashwell knew this woman, Erica Haba, and bought a few things from her. I also saw one of my customers, Didi, in this booth. What a small world.

I did get some great ideas, and a ton of inspiration. Can't wait to go back in September. Tonight I'll post the pictures of what the shop girls bought at Brimfield.

ROAD TRIP

2010-07-10T20:48:00.001-04:00

My husband, Ray, and I took a trip to Manchester, NH, to order a kitchen sink. One of the dealers at the shop told me about a shop in Wilton, NH. I looked online and saw that White Home Collections was my type of shop. The minute we pulled up to it, I practically jumped out of the car before my husband stopped. When I walked in, and told the owner that I came all the way from Massachusetts, and that I owned a shop in Wrentham, a lady who was standing at the counter yelled out, "The Wrentham Country Store"? I couldn't believe it, Wanda, who is a dealer there, is also a customer at my store. I was thrilled!! What a small world. Even though it is a bit of a ride, it is definitely well worth the trip. Here are some pictures that I took while I was there. There are outside carriage house rooms, three floors filled with goodies, and great garden stuff outside. I know that I will go back, and also bring some of the shop girls with me.

Of course, I bought some great things while I was there. Here are some pictures of things now at the shop. Enjoy.

A great old buggy seat, made in NH.

A green chippy ladder.

Cottage style drop front desk.

A vintage green wicker hamper.

HAPPY 4TH OF JULY WEEKEND EVERYONE

2010-07-04T21:49:00.000-04:00

I hope everyone is having a wonderful Fourth of July weekend. Spending time with family and friends, having an old fashioned barbecue with hot dogs and watermelon, isn't that what it's all about??

My dog, Jake, also wishes everyone a Happy Fourth of July!!!