Shop Envy: Seabold Vintage Market

I've had a serious case of Shop Envy for years. Eight years ago I walked into a local, popular home decor shop and thought, "Now, THIS is the type of store I would like to own. Someday." 

What started as a fleeting thought eight years ago is now a reality. As we were getting our brick & mortar ready, we scoured photos of our fave shops for inspiration. Having a little Shop Envy is what pushed & molded our business. It gives us the inspiration to step outside our boundaries and grow creatively and professionally. Until we started this journey, I didn't realize just how much work it was. We have a long way to go, but it's been exciting, stressful, crazy, and exhilarating so far. 

Whether you are hoping to start your own business, or currently have a small shop, or love to travel and visit unique, small boutiques...this series is for you:

Our little shop has changed so much in just the few months we've been open. Here's what it looked like when we signed the lease:

And this is what it looked like 30 days later:

We like to think of it as our starter home. We opened small, with our own savings and no loans. There's alot of our ultimate vision we've had to put on hold. As we grow, we hope to make our shop bigger and better for our customers. (And, hopefully a separate space for Jeff to build tables. Dust has taken over my life.)

One of the very first shops I started following was Seabold Vintage Market from Bainbridge Island, Washington. We are eyeing the Pacific NW for retirement, so I think I happened upon SVM while looking for retirement homes (yes, I know that's like 35 years away. It's never too early to start looking). They offer clean, fresh vintage finds.

Seabold Vintage Market

They also have a love for the red cross (not to mention ironstone, antlers, vintage grainsacks and cutting boards). It's on my top 5 shops to visit. Maybe top 2. (Technically, they do markets and online vintage sales. So, my goal is to visit a Pac NW vintage market they are apart of).

Seabold Vintage Market

Seabold Vintage Market

Editor's Note: A certain someone's birthday is coming up. The necklace above would make an excellent present. If that certain someone's husband (and business partner) happens to read this, you can follow the links provided in this post for more information.

I don't know why I'm drawn to the red cross...I just am. The red is so bold against the bright white. I love it. SVM inspired me to do these pieces.

 

Red Cross Suitcase

The dresser sold quickly and after two years, the suitcase is finally for sale (I've had a hard time parting with it). It's hand painted on a vintage Amelia Earhart suitcase. Love it!

Let me know...what are some of your favorite small home decor boutiques to visit?