Texas Antique Week – Junking is a Way of Life

Everything is bigger in Texas. And this couldn’t be truer than that of Texas Antique Week. As an early 30^th birthday present, my mom got us tickets to spend 4 days in the little communities of Round Top and Warrenton, TX.  Texas Antique Week has numerous markets to explore. This is where Pottery Barn and other buyers/designers come for ideas and inspiration. You can find anything that you need there to outfit your home or business. My mom does beautiful shabby chic weddings at the Barn on Belmont in Athens, Georgia, so we had our eye on anything that maybe could be used for her venue. We are both lovers of anything that is chippy, peeley, rusted, vintage, worn in, and multi-functional. I love taking pieces and reviving new life into them, whether I use them as decor or to serve a purpose. In the south, I find that we tend to hold on to more – whether it be clothing, furniture, your grandmama’s china, old cars, or farm equipment. My husband says that I have hoarding tendencies – BUT I would have to disagree ;). I just like to reuse and repurpose things. Everything has meaning and can be beautiful; that is how I look at things when I am shopping at yard sales, flea markets, and junk stores.

We shopped til we dropped. Literally. I was too tired to even go out at night, and for everyone that knows me – I do not like to turn down live music or karaoke (especially some “Jackson” or Pistol Annies – don’t even get me started!). We picked up a myriad of things to use for future projects.

Our goodies – Together we ended up purchasing a few olive buckets (they are all the rage right now – so cute to put cotton or flowers in), several hand crocheted blankets, a wooden Indian saddle, longhorn skull, a few clothing items, dream catchers for a few special projects,  and a couple of petticoats (one in white and one in lipstick red). It was an extremely successful treasure hunting trip.  I am so grateful we got to experience it and we are already planning the next trip (with a trailer- LOL).

Be prepared to pay for shipping. The shipping companies mainly deal in very large items, such as marble tables, armoires, etc. with a base price of $650 and $100 for each additional item.  It is worth it, if you are looking for large items, to rent a U-Haul or hook up a trailer and go down.

My highlight of the trip was getting to meet Amie Sikes from the Junk Gypsies. Their brand has become so popular, that they now have an actual retail store that houses their furnishings, novelty items, and clothing. We went there twice, just because there is so much to take in. It is absolutely breathtaking inside with elaborate and boho chic décor everywhere. I picked up a couple of dream catchers and I was down looking at a Christmas ornament when some asked “Would I like any help?”  as I looked up I was mouth wide opened stunned it was her. It was a star struck moment for me. She was so sweet, tiny, and cute! That day in the store, their dad was also present and speaking to others as well. That’s what it is all about for me. Remaining true to your roots, doing what you love, and being as humble as pie.

TIPS if you ever get the opportunity to go –

1.       Save up your money. Between doing shipping or trailering a U-Haul, it can get pricey.

2.       Work on your bartering skills. Vendors will work with you for a deal, just don’t insult them!

3.       Bring sunscreen. Texas heat is unreal and at 93 degrees it’s easy to get sunburn. Also remember to drink plenty of water!

4.       Dress cute – but comfortable. I recommend bringing sneakers. The first day we walked 5 ½ miles.

5.       Pack an extra suitcase. We ended up bring a couple carry-on bags that were quickly filled up at the end of our trip.

Happy Junkin’ Y’all!