55 WEST AND COMPANY

Here's the scoop!

2011-02-08T16:39:00.001-08:00

55 West & Co is officially for sale. There are lots of stories and rumors about so I thought I'd share a little about what's really going on...

This past fall, I went for an annual doctor check-up and was shocked to find out that I am in stage 5 renal failure. I will start dialysis soon and will need a kidney transplant in the near future. The doctors say that I'm a prime candidate for a transplant, and it's a pretty common procedure these days--some good news! In the meantime, I am taking tons of herbs, eating lots of organic veggies, and seeing many new age doctors. I'm actually the healthiest that I've ever been besides the kidney function!

This has been a life-altering experience...I've decided that I need to make some big changes and really focus on healing. Many tears were shed when I realized that keeping the store open was no longer an option. I just can't physically keep up with it. On a positive note, I have decided that I will continue to create jewelry, artwork, rugs, and painted furniture. My plan is to find a barn in the country where I can have a workshop and host quarterly shows. I will also continue selling my wares to other retail stores; 55 originals will still be available in cute shops throughout Ohio and beyond!

The building and/or the business are for sale. I would love to see 55 West continue to operate in Millersburg. It's such an inspiring escape for regulars and a fun surprise to Amish country visitors. Because of the circumstances, however, I must consider selling the building alone should a buyer be interested. Please feel free to spread the word!

The plan is to keep the store open until it sells as long as there are no major health complications in the meantime. I have reduced the hours of operation, and sometimes just don't have the energy to open. So please call ahead if you're making a special trip! If the building sells and not the business, we will have a huge sale, but I'm still adding inventory at this point.

I'm so thankful that I got to be a part of Downtown Millersburg and meet thousands of interesting people over the years. I really appreciate all of the support from the community and fans of 55. The outpouring of support has been more overwhelming to me than hearing the news about my kidneys. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart for your support, prayers, and well wishes. I feel truly blessed by your kindness!

Last Minute Invitation!!!

2010-06-29T07:46:00.000-07:00

Set up for free at Millersburg's 3rd of July celebration! Bring your artwork, antiques, garage sale items, etc and set up on the sidewalks and alleys! 1000's of people attend our event; be a part of the magic! set up is 9am or later and festivities are planned till 9:45 when the fireworks begin. Stay as long as you like! Set up is FREE!!! Contact me via email or phone if you'd like to participate!
Stefanie 330.674.6333
330.231.0740
55westandco@gmail.com

Coming Soon....

2010-05-28T11:29:00.000-07:00

Historic Downtown Millersburg is sponsoring an incredible fireworks display on Saturday, July 3rd in addition to live music, a beer garden, tons of activities for kids, and even a flea market in the alleys! Pig out on homemade ice cream, BBQ chicken, and many other delectable treats on the courthouse lawn. Hope you can make it! Please visit historicdowntownmillersburg.com for more details.

New to 55...

2010-05-11T14:13:00.000-07:00

FINALLY!

2010-05-01T09:09:00.000-07:00

For many years now, fans of 55 have requested that I offer goods for purchase on the internet...
Are you ready for this?-- We've finally done it! WooHoo! Check us out at etsy.com. As of today, I have a whopping 2 items listed, but we'll be adding to this daily--so check back often! Also, we are now on Facebook! Simply click the facebook icon to the right to become a friend of 55!

Fun and colorful new jewelry designs!

2010-04-22T11:21:00.000-07:00

Garden Stones

2010-04-22T11:17:00.000-07:00

Great in the garden, on the deck, or in the house....
The large planter styles are perfect for a 4" round flower pot. Small votive holders are also available... and the cores make excellent incense burners!

Check out this groovy chandelier...

Unusual finds

2010-04-22T11:10:00.000-07:00

Perfect for indoors or out, this iron table and chairs definitely makes a statement in bold yellow!

This oak cylinder desk is in excellent condition.

This reclining dentist's chair would be perfect in a bachelor pad.... recline while you watch a movie and use the adjustable tray for your popcorn!

The cat's eyes glow when you turn this nightlight on... creepy or cool?-we're not sure....

Oilcloth Aprons

2010-04-22T11:09:00.000-07:00

Look fabulous while you do your household chores! Oilcloth aprons are perfect for gardening, painting, and craft projects as well...

Latest Quote Portraits

2010-04-22T11:08:00.000-07:00

2010-04-22T11:04:00.000-07:00

2010-04-19T12:41:00.000-07:00

Spring is finally here! Sarah is making the most of the sunshine as she freshens up some new arrivals in the back alley....

Isn't she just cute as can be in her painting apron?

So John's latest weasely prank is to blow this antique trumpet when we're not expecting it. It gives me a start every time he does it-- which only seems to be encourage him to do it more!

Millersburg hosts Antiques in the Alley

2010-04-19T12:29:00.000-07:00

Mark your calender! Antiques in the Alley will take place on May 8th and August 7th this year. Antique dealers, artists and crafters line the streets and alleys of historic downtown Millersburg from 9-5. An estimated 50 vendors will be setting up and displaying their wares. Hope you can make it!
Interested in promoting your business or organization during the event? We'd love to have you! Check out historicdowntownmillersburg.com for information! p.s. non profit groups are invited to set up at no charge!

One WILD night!

2010-02-25T07:51:00.001-08:00

Girl's Night Out in Millersburg was a smashing success! Here at 55 we featured Rootz Hair Studio. Erin is seen here in the front window where she styled hair all night! Retro bouffants were the inspiration....

55 regular, Summer, wasn't afraid to go for it!
Doesn't she look fabulous?!!!--like she should be in a movie with Gidget!

These little girls got their nails done at another stop... they were so excited to show me! After I took their photo, they just giggled and jumped around. So cute!

It was a packed house all night!
Ruthie must have poured 500 cups of deluxe hot cocoa!

We were even blessed by the presence of Whitney Superstar, a childhood friend of mine from Portland, Oregan.
Supa-Star was in the house!

More Girl's Night Out Fun...

2010-02-25T07:41:00.000-08:00

Kara with Daystar Photography had fun with a group of girls dressed in get-ups from our vintage catwalk. The Vintage Glamour Shots were a HUGE hit!!!

Girls young and old joined in the fun!
Hats and boas were flying all over the 2nd floor of 55!

Everyone had fun... as I walked by the fitting room, I caught Marie and her daughter-in-laws in the bathtub!-Silly girls!

Get your boufant on!

2010-01-23T13:39:00.000-08:00

Historic Downtown Millersburg presents:
GIRLS NIGHT OUT!
February 20, 2010
4-9pm
Grab your girlfriends and come on over! All the stores in downtown will be participating by offering free services and refreshments. Here at 55 we'll feature Rootz Hair Salon and Daystar Photography. Erin and Lisa will transform you with a retro hairstyle, and Kara will commemorate the evening with a vintage glamor shot! 55 associates will help to accessorize you with options from our vintage catwalk so you'll look your best under Kara's dramatic lighting set up!Our entire selection of vintage clothing along with all 55 original jewelry designs will be 20% off during the event as well!
I really hope you can make it!-stef

Newest creations...

2010-01-23T11:58:00.000-08:00

I couldn't resist....

2010-01-23T11:46:00.000-08:00

What a treat I got today when I opened my email! Former 55 associate Jamie sent me this fun photo of her adorable Ellie. I hope this shot puts a smile on your face too! -stef

Quote paintings...

2010-01-16T09:13:00.000-08:00

First Snowfall at Crooked Creek Cabin

2009-12-19T16:30:00.000-08:00

Children's Night in Millersburg

2009-12-19T15:44:00.000-08:00

I left Sarah and Cole for just a few minutes as we were preparing for face painting the parade of kids that were about to arrive for children's night... and upon my return found that Sarah decided to warm-up by painting a mustache on Cole's upper lip! They started quite a trend...

Tucker's big brother Thane didn't hesitate to ask for one...

Cole started a phenomenon

2009-12-19T15:10:00.000-08:00

One kid after another wanted a stache...

This guy even requested eyebrows...

and even girls got in on it!

2009-12-19T15:03:00.000-08:00

By the end of the night, we threw caution to the wind and Sarah and I joined in the fun!

A Magical Evening...

2009-12-03T07:54:00.000-08:00

Little Brookie loves jewelry--lucky for her, aunt Stefanie designs cool pieces for little girls, too!

Java Jo, in a fabulous vintage fur, and husband Mark attended along with sweet Fern and her crew!

The West Holmes High School Chamber Choir even made an appearance and performed!

Soiree 09

2009-12-03T07:41:00.000-08:00

Mike and Tracy McDowell got all dolled-up!

In the bright red coats are Boogie and her daughter Barb. When I asked her about her nickname, she explained that she's "a boogie-get-down-grandma"--i love it!!!
Little Mitchell and his grandma are checking out the turtle cheesecake that my mom made.

This is my sister Kelly and our baby brother Drew.

Drew and my mom Melody...

55 V.I.P.s Tara and Robyn found a comfy spot to relax at the end of the evening.

55's 2009 Fabulous Soiree Crew

2009-12-03T07:31:00.000-08:00

55 staffers Cole and Sarah... or as Big John calls them... Coleslaw and
Sarah the Famous Painter!
I think she'll be a famous painter, too!

This was the perfect excuse for Bree and Candice to wear their prom dresses again!

Jim and Juli definitely added to the lively atmosphere!
p.s. that's my poppa in the striped shirt!

Oh, Jim....

Rare photo op

2009-11-19T08:48:00.000-08:00

Otis, official shop dog at 55 West is usually very shy about having his photo taken but seemed to pose for me today. He's been coming to work with me for nearly 10 years now and enjoys keeping children and husbands entertained by "allowing" them to rub his belly-- how gracious of him, eh? He can usually be found lounging about the store in places where he can sniff customers without having to move. We think he's a husky and malamute mix, but we get all kinds of guesses. Otis has many nicknames... O-Diddy turned into Diddy, and now as I'm looking his photo, I'm thinking that "Puffy" would probably suit him too!

Fun new quote portraits!!!

2009-11-19T08:38:00.000-08:00

New to 55...

2009-11-16T13:58:00.000-08:00

2009-11-16T13:54:00.000-08:00

Not to be missed....

2009-11-16T13:51:00.000-08:00

Floor Art

2009-11-16T13:47:00.000-08:00

These rugs are so much fun to create! I created about 12 new ones before I had to force myself to stop. They wash and wear very well and they're a fun burst of color in any room!-stefanie

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas...

2009-11-16T13:39:00.000-08:00

The holidays are such a fun time of year at 55, but I must admit that every year I dread putting up the 12 foot tree. This year I opted for decorating the huge spray of bamboo in the middle of the store. It's gotten mixed reviews so far, but I think it's definitely a conversation piece!
stef

55 WEST & CO'S ANNUAL HOLIDAY SOIREE...

2009-11-11T08:39:00.000-08:00

IS THE PERFECT EXCUSE
TO OVERDRESS!
55 West & Co hosts the biggest party of the year in little Millersburg, Ohio--
and you're invited!

It always takes place on the Saturday immediately after Thanksgiving, and this year we've added a little incentive to get "all dolled-up"! We'll be offering discounts on everything in the store from 7-10pm on the 28th of November, BUT if you attend in formal attire (or make some kind of attempt to dress up!) you will receive 25% off everything in the store!

Grab your friends and family and come experience 55 West in all of its holiday glory!

Scroll down for photos from previous soirees!

Save the date!

2009-10-17T16:43:00.000-07:00

Historic
Downtown Millersburg
Ghost Walk
Saturday, October 31st 7pm-?

Gypsy Sue guides tours through downtown sharing folk lore and recent anecdotes about the ghosts who inhabit the historic buildings. 55 West will be part of the tour--sharing stories about their friend who "lives" on the second floor! Hope you can make it!
visit historicdowntownmillersburg.com for further details!

SAVE THE DATE!

2009-10-17T14:52:00.000-07:00

55 WEST & CO's
annual
HOLIDAY SOIREE
Saturday, November 28th 7-10pm

*20% off everything in the store
*cocktails
*holiday merriment!

I'd like to buy a vowel, please....

2009-10-12T11:35:00.000-07:00

my favorite quote...

2009-10-12T11:33:00.000-07:00

2009-10-12T11:27:00.000-07:00

Clay Knobs by Cole

2009-09-10T15:18:00.000-07:00

New 55 employee, Cole created these fun knobs with polymer clay and lots of patience! Add a little pizazz to your kitchen cabinets or adorn your nightstand with some fun color! Many color combinations are available. Custom designs are also an option!
stef

Colors of fall

2009-08-30T12:43:00.000-07:00

I call this 55 original painted vanity... tequila sunrise!

Red agate with tiger eye

Sarah's latest poppy painting...

My new jewelry counter!

2009-08-30T10:52:00.001-07:00

I was so excited when the phone rang the other day, and it was Bunny (yes, Bunny) calling to invite me to a house she was cleaning out-- if I could get there within15 minutes, I could have all the "junk" I wanted! This counter was smothered by layers old linoleum, but it was easily restored. I created the shelf on top with a walnut foot board and bed rails. What makes this even more special is that it was used in a print shop here in Millersburg, and on the drawer is a list of prices for local businesses including Maxwell letterhead which sold for $.93/100 sheets!

- stefanie

Girlie creations

2009-08-30T10:47:00.000-07:00

This bedroom suit is in every girl's favorite colors-
PINK and PURPLE!

Our first show!

2009-08-30T10:42:00.000-07:00

Check us out at the Victorian House Museum on September 19! We'll be there with many new fabric creations... rugs, pillows, handbags, and maybe a few surprises! Click on the photo for full details! - stefanie

A cozy place to rest your head....

2009-08-22T08:05:00.001-07:00

Log walls in the open loft at Crooked Creek Cabin create a warm atmosphere.

Did I tell you this cabin has 5 bedrooms?!!!

More Crooked Creek Cabin Shots

2009-08-22T08:00:00.000-07:00

I absolutely love getting my hands in the dirt! The beds around the cabin were the perfect excuse for me to do just that!

The fire pit with picnic tables in the back yard is the perfect location for making gooey s'mores!

-stef

Thru Janet's Lens...

2009-08-20T10:20:00.001-07:00

First-timer Janet Joehlin sent me these photos from her visit to 55 last week. The latest window display definitely gets folks attention as they walk in!

Salvage Central, located on the second floor, is a fun place to spend an hour or so digging around!

My messy sewing area even looks cool in this shot! Thanks for sharing these photos with us, Janet!
stef

Over the river...

2009-07-24T16:21:00.000-07:00

and through the woods...

to 55's new cabin we go!

The 55 staff has been very busy putting the finishing touches on Crooked Creek Cabin.
This fantastic space is now available to rent by the night or week! Bring the entire family or plan a secluded getaway for you and your sweetie.

The cabin has a functioning fireplace and open floorplan....

2009-07-24T16:19:00.000-07:00

The kitchen offers all the amenities of home with plenty of cooking utensils and table service.

Five bedrooms and three full bathrooms make this a great place for large groups!

Call 55 West today to secure your booking! 330.674.6333
or send us an email at 55westandco@gmail.com

Our official 55 West Lodging website will be up and running soon!
Watch your in box!

More quote portraits..

2009-04-17T08:59:00.000-07:00

This fellow in the pimp hat is definitely my favorite of all the portraits I've painted!

2009-04-17T08:56:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday, Barbie!

2009-04-17T08:53:00.000-07:00

funky stools

2009-04-17T08:46:00.000-07:00

We have a great selection of chairs and stools that we have recovered in fun and funky fabrics.

window paintings

2009-04-17T08:44:00.000-07:00

New antiques

2009-04-17T08:38:00.000-07:00

Almost everyday we get something new (new to 55) and interesting into the store... This Danish modern dinette set will surely go quickly!

This piece, on the other hand, will have to wait for a special buyer. It's a birthing chair--yes, you're reading this correctly. What a great conversation piece!

55 for the nursery

2009-04-17T08:33:00.000-07:00

This is a great example of my weird sense of humor...

chalk boards

2009-04-17T08:28:00.000-07:00

I love the idea of "artful purpose"... our 55 original chalkboards are fun and colorful plus they have a purpose! Stop in and check out our complete collection!

String Bling

2009-03-11T09:46:00.000-07:00

All the colors of spring-- String Bling!!! It's a scarf, it's a belt, it's whatever you want it to be! Add a bold punch of color to your wardrobe and your day! These have been flying out of the store so hurry in for yours today!stef

Spring Fever

2009-03-07T10:29:00.001-08:00

Big John's got the fever! hee hee!

Millersburg Crowns a Queen!

2009-02-23T08:55:00.000-08:00

1st Official Honorary Queen for the Night, Mary Miller, of The Jewelry Store, was truly surprised when she was lured to the Hotel Millersburg before Girl's Night Out!
A large crowd waited in anticipation of the surprise ceremony.

Gypsy Sue read the proclamation which included many of the reasons that she was chosen. There were so many that it made our choice very easy!

Just like a queen... she was bossy within minutes. (hee hee)

The Queen Mother

Latest additions...

2009-02-09T15:01:00.000-08:00

Sultry sofa

Reproduction telephone

GIRLS' NIGHT OUT!!!

2009-02-09T14:20:00.000-08:00

HISTORIC DOWNTOWN MILLERSBURG PRESENTS

GIRLS' NIGHT OUT!!!
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 21st 4pm - 1am

55 WEST & CO
will offer 20% off
ALL 55 ORIGINAL MERCHANDISE!!!
- jewelry - window paintings - pillows - rugs - painted furniture -
and a DECADENT COCOA BAR!!!

for full details visit www.historicdowntownmillersburg.com

Frenchy Fairytale

2009-02-09T14:09:00.000-08:00

I absolutely adore how these pieces turned out! It was hard not to take them home after completing them! stefanie

Fresh Spring Window Displays

2009-02-09T14:04:00.000-08:00

Pretty in Pink

Contemporary Chic

winter in paradise

2009-02-06T15:39:00.000-08:00

Yes, we've been getting a TON of snow... but isn't it beautiful? I've been taking advantage of these snowy days by organizing and cleaning my workshops--spring cleaning! stef

Attack of the children!

2008-12-23T17:45:00.001-08:00

Historic Downtown Millersburg sponsored Kids Night, and 55 offered free face painting. I had no idea that we would be bombarded with children for hours on end! Youngsters left 55 with their cheeks adorned with santas,snowflakes, and reindeer, and the gal above asked Sarah for a full kitten face! stefanie

RETRO Christmas signs

2008-12-18T09:08:00.000-08:00

55 West is located in what's locally known as the Maxwell Building. The long and short of it is that the Maxwell family built the structure in 1866 and operated their men's clothing store in the building until 2002. It was one of the oldest family-owned clothing stores in the USA!

*yes, boys love it when they get socks and underwear for Christmas!

I am simply in love with the building and its history, and I was lucky enough to see and touch many of it's stored treasures! When I purchased the building, the entire second floor was packed from the floor to the ceiling -literally- with old inventory and advertisements from the last 130 plus years.

This collection of retro holiday promotional posters makes me giggle--and hopefully you too!
My, how times have changed...

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!
stefanie

WHITE ELEPHANT CHERUB LAMP

2008-12-18T08:55:00.000-08:00

55 West V.I.P., Robyn, called me this week looking for an unforgetable present for her husband's office white elephant gift exchange. Of course we had the perfect object! I always try to have at least one fun gag gift available amongst our diverse inventory!
Robyn requested some special 55 wrapping so that she can theatrically unveil the piece! I can't wait to hear how it's received! stefanie

Latest Jewelry Creations

2008-12-10T09:14:00.001-08:00

Feel free to click on the photos for a better view!

stefanie

Happy Holidays!!!

2008-12-10T09:06:00.001-08:00

Sale!

2008-12-10T08:53:00.000-08:00

All WU2 handmade leather handbags are $99 or less!

Holiday Sales!

2008-12-10T08:44:00.000-08:00

Just a few pieces left...

Holiday bath soap sets and candystriped votive cups make great stocking stuffers!

New and antique ornaments are all on sale throughout the store!

stefanie

Pure Delight

2008-12-10T08:40:00.001-08:00

Big John "the weasel boy" Aubry once again gave a delightful reading of "Twas the Night Before Christmas" at our annual Holiday Soiree. Big J loves the holidays and can be heard most days singing carols at the top of his lungs throughout downtown Millersburg!
stefanie

Great Gift Ideas...

2008-12-10T08:13:00.001-08:00

This large painting was inspired by a custom order-- very subtle compared to the things I usually do, eh?
Our crocheted rag rugs are a great gift for any age. The flannels are so cozy on your tootsies!

This frame originally held a mirror, but rather than replace it, I decided the aged back makes a perfect backdrop for this dogwood branch.

We still have plenty of funky furniture choices, too!!!

stefanie

New Quote Window

2008-12-10T08:10:00.001-08:00

Does this guy look like a young Colonel Sanders, or what?!!!

stefanie

New Handbags

2008-12-10T08:05:00.000-08:00

Melody, my mom, has been helping me with some of the beadwork... it is so much fun to see these bags come together!

stefanie

HOLIDAY SOIREE!

2008-11-29T09:02:00.000-08:00

DON'T MISS IT!!!

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 29TH

6PM - 10PM

ALL IN-STOCK MERCHANDISE ON SALE

25% OFF!!!

FEEL FREE TO OVERDRESS--

COCKTAILS AT 6!

Too much fun...

2008-10-10T15:25:00.000-07:00

I must admit that I am having waaaaay too much fun recreating these portraits! This fellow even has a diamond nose ring and earrings... stef

Holmes County Antique Festival brought out the Characters!

2008-10-07T10:51:00.000-07:00

I made Amish country tourist, Donna, pose in the front window

as she "test-drove" the set in the front window!

My adorable nephew, Bryce, was thrilled when he caught a cheese head hat from the Guggisberg Cheese Parade float!

Yes, he's as ornery as he looks!!! stefanie

Parade Highlights

2008-10-07T10:39:00.000-07:00

The local high school band rattled the windows in downtown...

and plenty of antique cars cruised the main drag!

Colorful Victorian cosumes added to the fun atmosphere.

Hundreds of children participated in the parade. I think these cute girls have had enough!

stefanie

Inspired by Ellie

2008-09-29T16:22:00.000-07:00

Who is Ellie? She is the beautiful new baby girl of Jamie, former 55 associate, and proud papa, Eric. I got to hold her for about 2 hours the other day as she dreamt and made precious baby gurgles. stefanie

Inspired by Patty...

2008-09-29T16:19:00.000-07:00

Too busy to blog!

2008-09-19T11:38:00.001-07:00

2008-09-19T11:38:00.000-07:00

Original Florals

2008-08-25T12:13:00.000-07:00

Precious

Earthy

Whimsical

Although this isn't made with flowers, it's a recent creation...

Epic

Cheeseburger in Paradise

2008-08-11T14:48:00.001-07:00

Long time 55 fan-atic, Juli, came in a few weeks ago with a bead that her teenage son Cole had created. It was a cheeseburger-- yes, a cheeseburger clay bead complete with condiments and even sesame seeds atop the bun! She left it for me to d0 as I pleased and hinted that there may be more where that one came from... A week later the perfect idea came to me! With the addition of some colorful vintage parrots it became The Cheeseburger in Paradise Necklace! I knew that Cole's wacky mom would love it (as you can see above--click the photo for a larger view), but will Jimmy Buffet fans line up for one? Hmmmm....
stefanie

New jewelry designs!

2008-08-03T12:17:00.001-07:00

A lepidolite drop, vintage glass, and fresh water coin pearls with a sterling clasp...

awe-some!

Molton amber and vintage crystal is dramatic and fun all at once! stefanie

Sign tour of 55 WEST & Co

2008-08-03T11:57:00.000-07:00

Inspired by a grandmother's Christmas tree "art", I invested many hours of my life putting this together!

Burt's Bees-how can you not love it?!!!!!!

The second story is definitely worth checking out! stefanie

2nd Floor

2008-08-03T11:48:00.000-07:00

The latest and greatest...

2008-07-09T11:49:00.000-07:00

This awesome window painting went home with Joanie, a long time fan of 55! One of my favorite stories is the time that Joanie and her crazy sister bought a huge shelf and jammed it into the back of a tiny Mazda convertible. The 8 foot shelf towered over that little car, and the girls giggled hysterically as they pulled away! Hope you love your new painting, Joanie!
stefanie

Where the magic happens...

2008-07-09T11:31:00.000-07:00

The fabric studio--where "messy" and "inspiration" meet.

New handbags and Patty's awesome 55 pillow...

stefanie

Rocker Attitude

2008-06-27T11:36:00.001-07:00

As I create each piece of jewelry, I like to imagine the person who will be wearing it. Some designs are simple and delicate for the quiet, subtle types, and some are earthy for the hippie chicks of the world. Pictured above is my "rock star necklace". As I made it, I knew that someone with a rock star attitude would end up as its owner. Local hair designer Casey Shultz proved me right!
stefanie

Box Lots

2008-06-26T10:43:00.000-07:00

Tom, one of my "pickers" (lingo for - person who goes to auctions and picks things up), brought me 4 boxes of hats and vintage aprons, and about 25 pounds of miscellaneous costume jewelry!

After these girls spent an hour in our vintage catwalk, I surprised them with first dibs on the new collection of jewelry. They dug and sorted for $1 treasures for a good bit of the day!
stefanie

June's Garden

2008-06-26T10:21:00.000-07:00

I usually prefer to paint whatever it is that I'm feeling at that time, but sometimes a custom order will take me in an enjoyable new direction. This garden scene is painted on a window from Bowling Green resident June's family homestead.
stefanie

Summer inspiration

2008-06-26T10:04:00.000-07:00

Log Furniture

2008-06-17T11:20:00.000-07:00

55 now offers handmade log furniture by Seth Coldwell of Whispering Pines Log Furniture. He really does some beautiful work! Each unique piece of timber is put together with his artistic eye to create the best look. He also boasts that no metal is used in his designs--every joint is cut to size and glued with wooden dowel pins. Orders may be placed at 55 and usually take 2-6 weeks for delivery. Coming soon... beds, dressers, and dining room tables!

stefanie

Newest Garden Stones

2008-06-17T10:02:00.000-07:00

A few of the stones that I gathered this round worked well as vases! This orchid looks as if it were meant to grow here! stef

Busy Bee

2008-06-17T09:43:00.000-07:00

55 is in a constant state of evolution!The vintage catwalk is really beginning to come together...

complete with a collection of antique ties. The smoking jacket is soooo Hugh.

New jewelry designs have been flying out of the store.

I love the pieces with the vintage fruit and daisy beads!

I've been painting everything in sight! From vibrant colors to metallic glazes, my latest furniture make-overs really make a statement! stefanie

Playing in the windows

2008-06-17T09:23:00.000-07:00

The front display windows at 55 can sometimes be a distraction to passing motorists;

I wonder why...

Reworking the front display windows is always fun. A more subtle, antique collection balances the entry. Like my new signs hanging near the ceiling?

Below are some of my latest paintings...

stefanie

A long happy marriage

2008-05-16T19:51:00.000-07:00

Life at 55 is never dull. New creations are always spilling out of our studios, fresh deliveries of quirky antiques need polished and priced, and there is a non-stop parade of characters walking through the front door. Folks like Billie Boa, the eccentric midget wrestling promoter (who coincidentally lives in a tee pee for a few months out of the year) to designers from Abercrombie and Crate & Barrel make daily life very interesting. I must admit, though, that my favorite guests in the store are usually over 70. I appreciate their sense of self and often times blunt words of wisdom. Today I found myself chatting with a kind, soft-spoken, almost 5 foot tall grandma who had just celebrated her 50th wedding anniversary. I asked her what she thought was the secret to a good marriage, and she exclaimed (without missing a beat) "lusty weekends away from home!" -After I caught my breath from the initial shock and then deep belly laughs that possessed us both, she gave me a hug and skipped outside to her doting husband...
-stefanie