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Still Going Strong
Written By: Deena Bouknight | Issue: July - 2022
Vivianne Metzger Antiques, set alongside Cashiers Lake, is enjoying 25 years of providing stunning treasures from Europe for homes across the Plateau. For more information, visit vmantiques.com.
This year is a milestone for Vivianne Metzger Antiques, a quarter-century-old, family-owned, retail shop on Cashiers Lake in Cashiers featuring fine 18thand 19thcentury English and French antique furniture and accessories. Started by Vivianne Metzger, the shop’s fortunes increased when daughter Cherie Tibbetts and her husband Bill joined 18 years ago. The three regularly scour the countryside of Europe each spring to present at least 1,000 items in the shop and warehouse.Regarding 25 years of service on the Plateau, Cherie noted, “The market has changed in 25 years. Fewer customers used to purchase all antiques for their home, but now many more customers purchase at least one or a few statement pieces. And, everyone that purchases wants the history. It’s nice that we can pass that on.” She added, “We also do a lot more English garden statuary, benches, planters, sun dials – feature pieces to put in landscap-ing. These garden pieces are displayed all around the warehouse and shop.”The group was in Europe for six weeks in March and April for the first time since the pandemic started. With their warehouse added 15 years ago, much more inventory is possible, and the warehouse holds many of the larger furnishing items, while other antiques are merchandised in the shop. Metzger and the Tibbetts are on the hunt for distinct, one-of-a-kind items.In fact, categories include furnishings, lighting, oils and watercolors, mirrors, garden accents, pottery, leather bound books, and much more.“We always go to Europe with a wish list from clients. I have an active Instagram account and post every day what we’re buying. People will often reserve items for ‘first looks’ when we return.” Cherie pointed out, “With ever-changing inventory and new containers arriving from Europe, customers find that once they’ve shopped with us, they will keep coming back for more!”Vivianne Metzger Antiques welcomes the general public as well as the interior design trade. “Interiordesigners no longer think of ‘brown furniture’ as vintage wood pieces without pedigree,” said Cherie. “Instead they elevate them as critical elements of decor.” They are located at 31 Canoe Point in Cashiers off Valley Road and are open Tuesday–Saturday from 10:30 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. For more information call (828) 743-0642.
by Deena Bouknight
