Let’s Go Antiquing!

Written By: Mary Jane McCall | Issue: 2021/07 – July

Shopping for antiques is fun for all, whether you’re a serious collector or someone looking for that perfect little piece that fits perfectly into a spot in your home.  

Luckily, here on the Plateau we have great opportunities to shop the finest antiques, along with unparalleled personal service provided by small business-owners and their attentive staff.

Start your day in Cashiers in the Burns Street area at

Josephine’s Emporium

at 40 Burns Street, across from The Village Hound. Antique prints of every size, sort and description invite you to linger over each, admiring the artistry and nuances of these timeless pieces. Botanical, bird and nature prints abound with beautiful works by John James Audubon and Mark Catesby, among others. Don’t be surprised to find an intricate engraving with hand watercolor from the 1600’s hidden among the many treasures here. Take your time to peruse the antique maps and don’t forget to bring your art that needs framing.

A List Antiques

In the same building is A List Antiques, a deceptively humble location for a larger-than-life antiques warehouse. A-List Antiques features authentic pieces from Belgium and France that are larger than life. Think European farmhouse or hunting lodge. Large farm tables that seat up to twelve, oversized paintings, ten to twelve foot cabinets and pieces of garden art, particularly faux bois pieces that will elevate any garden or outdoor area. They also have a few well-chosen elaborate chandeliers that promise to be the centerpiece of any room. Proprietors Ed and Ann Miller Hopkins are more than happy to help you find that perfect piece.

The Village Hound

Next door at 25 Burns Street is The Village Hound. The place is a lovely antique store and art gallery where owner Lee Dages has acquired an amazing selection of all things animal related, particularly dog and equine pieces.  You’ll find antique furniture, accessories, rugs, art, even a vintage Hermes scarf or two tucked among the treasures here.  Fun Fact: The back of the store offers everything you need for the pet lover, from collars and leashes to homemade organic treats.

Nearly New Furniture Consignment

Nearly New Furniture Consignment at 60 Village Walk might not be the first place you think of when shopping for antiques, but it is always worth a look.  Proprietors Mary Connor and her daughter Jenna Connor, often find themselves offering stunning pieces, and naturally the inventory turns over quickly so it’s a new opportunity every week. Mary says that while they don’t always have the big showy pieces, you can often find that surprising, unique smaller item for your home.  Think antique kitchen scales or equipment, pictures, vases and other artwork.  Treasure hunting at its best!

Vivianne Metzger Antiques

Vivianne Metzger Antiques at 31 Canoe Point offers an ever-changing inventory of pieces from the countryside of Europe.  Proprietors Vivianne Metzger, Bill Tibbetts and Cherie Tibbetts travel to Europe each spring to bring the finest back to you.  Here you will find antique furniture; art, including watercolors and oils; mirrors; the finest pottery including Majolica and Staffordshire; English silver, china and copper accent pieces and; antique books; and more. Shopping here is habit forming.

Marshall Carpenter and Honey of The Bear’s Den

The Bear’s Den at 404 Highway 107 S (formerly Honeybee Home) has rebranded itself more in alignment with their love of finding unique items for your home.  Selling new, gently-used and vintage items, they love to scour estate sales and find one-of-a-kind items for your home.  From furniture and art to gifts and home décor, they find pieces that will become your family treasures.  If you see it today, you’d better get it, because once it’s gone, it’s gone. Their items are so unique that reordering is not often an option.

Oakleaf Flower and Garden

 In Highlands you’ll want to stop in at Oakleaf Flower and Garden at 395 Main Street. The visually stunning array of all things floral, garden, gift and home accessory will entice you inside, but you’ll soon discover there’s so much more to be explored. Dare we say a museum quality collection of carefully-curated antique pieces that showcase owner Kirk Moore’s passion and discerning eye for exquisite pieces, particularly southern furniture, art and English pottery from Staffordshire. Don’t miss their Southern art collection show, which features paintings from the 20s, 30s and 40s, all painted by artists from Highlands and Cashiers. Flowers, southern art, and southern hospitality make this shop a must-visit.

Mirror Lake Antiques

Mirror Lake Antiques, on the hill at 215 South 4th Street, should be your first stop for estate and contemporary jewelry. If you’re looking for sterling flatware and hollowware, they are happy to match a particular pattern for you. This shop is truly a treasure trove of antique and estate jewelry, elegant porcelain, and many special items that are just right for entertaining. Owners Stan and Donna Cochran have loved curating their eclectic collection for the last 48 years and they are happy to help you find the perfect vintage piece to fit your contemporary lifestyle.

ACP Home Interiors

ACP Home Interiors at 1990 Dillard Road offers just what you’d expect: items for your home including home décor and accent pieces; luxurious bed linens; lighting; lamps; furniture; fine art; and more.  The unexpected surprise here?  Vintage European trunks and hard cases. Their selection of vintage Louis Vuitton and Goyard trunks is extensive and worth the short drive out of town.  They have been buying and selling vintage trunks for more than 30 years.

by Mary Jane McCall