photos by SAIL OFF PHOTOGRAPHY
As creative as its clever name implies, Carolina Vintiques (yes, that’s a blend of “antiques and vintage”) this popular shopping destination in Clemmons is a treasure for lovers of distinctive home décor.
“When I came up with this name, I was simply a vendor myself in a friend’s store,” owner Shelle McCollum explains. “I felt like since I had a booth, it needed a name. It just came to me, in the same way all my other business names came to me — it was a vision that spoke to my heart, and I went with it.”
So many descriptive words are well-suited to describe the ambiance here — charming, nostalgic, fun, artistic — and it’s likely you’ll never leave empty-handed!
“What I believe sets us apart is that we carry such a unique mix of new items, but we sprinkle in vintage treasures, giving you the best of both worlds,” says Shelle.
She moved to this area 11 years ago and remembers driving by her current location and admiring the building. “It always spoke to me!” she recalls. Having connected with Forsyth Woman magazine early on as well, she also dreamed of being on the cover one day — knowing that would be a milestone for the small business she hadn’t even started yet!
For the past three years, Carolina Vintiques has been nestled in a much more spacious location than the original spot in a charming Hanestown mill house in Winston-Salem — the city Shelle fell in love with when she first moved here. Discerning shoppers and budding design clients were soon loving her right back, and spreading the word about her incredible eye for distinctive décor. In the meantime, Shelle was immediately noticing that the community is a real haven for creative entrepreneurs.
Her most recent “leap of faith” business move proves that no matter what style suits your home and family, you’ll still find plenty of farmhouse chic, as well as contemporary furniture pieces and accessories at Carolina Vintiques. The Clemmons location is super convenient for a quick shopping trip at lunchtime or a lazy Saturday spent browsing and dreaming. It features seven spaces, occupied by Shelle and six other unique, personally chosen vendors who add their own exclusive flair to their vignettes, yet the layout of the shop blends together in perfect harmony.
“I love having a small, select group of vendors — it makes the shopping experience less overwhelming for customers. I also enjoy encouraging other women to start their own businesses — and love sharing this opportunity with my vendors — our success is definitely not all about me!”
Shop displays are constantly updated, based on each vendor’s creative mood at the time, so part of the fun is not knowing what you’ll find from day to day. Vendors often change out their spaces during evening hours — so coming in every morning can be a treat to see what the creative “elves” have blended overnight! You’re always guaranteed a happy mix of home décor and antiques — and creative collections from different vendors.
Need an idea? Maybe you’re the owner of a favorite wooden bowl at home that desperately needs a little sprucing up for fall — and that’s where the shop’s selection of faux florals and greenery can work its magic. Customers regularly bring in containers and ask for guidance on faux florals — which, Shelle points out, is actually their largest selling category, with furniture and candles following next.
Or, maybe you’re in the market for a seasonal wreath for the front door. It’s always the right time for candles, diffusers, and room sprays — and Carolina Vintiques has a collection of scents you’ll love, along with vintage table accessories that are sure to make great conversation pieces at your holiday gatherings. (Many of those vintage kitchen items will remind you of childhood days, too — we guarantee it!) Feast your eyes on decorative hand towels, pillows, artwork, and pumpkins galore.
Shelle also offers custom painting of your unique pieces from home, using the color of your choice from the store’s popular selection of mineral paints by Fusion. The Fusion brand makes projects a breeze with all-in-one primer, paint, and topcoat.You can start by texting a photo of your favorite piece — and receive a price quote to get the process going. The staff can also walk you through step-by-step if you’re starting a DIY project. Hint: Save all your inspiration photos and snapshots of your home space to share when you come in to visit!
“Re-doing a room at home, or creating an updated vignette, can seem overwhelming,” Shelle explains. “That’s where we offer in-person and virtual consulting services to pave the way for an amazing finished product, and make your creative process an easy one!”
With the season of giving now in full swing, and Carolina Vintiques already fully stocked and glowing for the holidays, add them to your shopping itinerary for truly one-of-a-kind gift choices. A special touch for a friend’s home or office is always a good idea, and the store’s perfect balance of vintage, modern, and eclectic should offer something for everyone on your list. Be sure to plan a visit to their annual Open House and anniversary celebration on December 1st, where you can enjoy refreshments, register for prizes, and soak up the magical holiday ambiance.
You’ll love every minute of your time at Carolina Vintiques!
Carolina Vintiques
2550 Lewisville-Clemmons Road
(across from Chick-fil-A)
Clemmons, NC 336-829-1173
Monday through Saturday 10-6. Follow them on Facebook and Instagram @carolinavintiques.
