The Junk Drawer Girl

Collecting antique and vintage items for my home is a constant love affair! Many people often ask me where I find unique items and how do I make them work in my home. Today’s blog is going to cover the first part of those questions—“Where do I find unique vintage and antique home decor items?”

First of all, I am a picker and thrift store enthusiast. I am always on the hunt for do-it-yourself items that I can up-cycle or make my own. But, many people don’t have the time for at home projects or think that they won’t be able to get the look they want if they do it themselves (which you totally can–because I have confidence in you!) Also, be on the look out for a new summer series of DIY videos–launching soon!

So, if you are a person who can’t commit to a fixer upper project and just want a list of great places to shop—-here we go:

Eyeing the Past

Price Point- $

This quaint little shop is home to 52 unique vendors that offer vintage, antique, primitive and crafted pieces. I have found many small budget friendly everyday pieces for my kitchen and bath. I especially love their selection of chalk paint/stains and shabby chic decor items.

Location: 1936 Commercial Drive, Fort Myers, Florida

Wildwood Antique Mall

Price Point- $$

This antique mall is a new location for the Wildwood brand, considering they have multiple locations across Florida. Here you will find small trinkets and rare items that you may not be able to find anywhere else in the Southwest region. Uniquely, Wildwood offers an online gallery and checkout that is convenient for today’s busy online shoppers. You can find items for purchase through their website without ever stepping foot in their location (personally to me, that takes the fun out of the hunt!)

Location: 5100 South Cleveland Avenue Suite 101, Fort Myers, Florida

The Open Door Shoppes

Price Point- $$

The is by far my personal favorite! I might be a little bias, since I personally have a booth in this shop. From shabby chic farmhouse to upscale french antiques, ODS offers an abundance of variety! Located in the Historic District of Fort Myers, The Open Door Shoppes gives the #shoplocal a new meaning! With over 100 vendors, you will be sure to find something that you just have to take home. ODS offers monthly Market Days where shoppers can enjoy discounted prizes and tons of outside street vendors! During the slower summer months, locals and tourist can enjoy Summer Bazaars twice a month throughout downtown Fort Myers.

Location: 1615 Hendry Street, Fort Myers, Florida

Rust Never Sleeps Architectural Salvage

Price Point- $$$$

RNS is a bit more pricey if you are just looking for home decor items. However, if you are looking for custom pieces to add to your home or large furniture pieces, then you need to stop in. Currently under new management, RNS offers authentic antiques and salvaged items from across the United States. From custom farm tables to age old barn doors, RNS puts a modern “handmade” feel into each and every piece they sell. This is the perfect place if you need reno items like vintage knobs, wood flooring, and iron gates! My heart leaps over their collection of antique corbels and slabs of wood!

Location: 1922 A Evans Avenue, Fort Myers, Florida

Vintage Market Mall & Salvage

Price Point- $$$

Okay, so the Vintage Market Mall & Salvage is not exactly in Fort Myers, but North Fort Myers is close enough, right? If you are looking for beautiful hand painted or one of a kind upholstery pieces, then this is your one stop shop. The owners offer an array of Dixie Bell Paint Products that they personally use on their custom furniture.  In season, they offer painting classes ranging from beginner to professional!

Location: 242 Pine Island Road, North Fort Myers, Florida

For the above price points, use my personal Price Point Guide: $-Inexpensive, $$-Affordable, $$$-Moderate, $$$$-Expensive