Rust and Ruin...Refueled : A Visit To Taylors Mill

When you're trying to put out creativity all day every day, you need a little recharge. Luckily, I had the honor of visiting two very different locations this week that were both refreshing and inspiring!

The first one was Taylors Mill, in Taylors, SC. Greenville is becoming quite an artistic place. Tons of artist communities popping up here and there. If you haven't heard about the latest space in Taylors Mill, you're missing out. Find out more at the Taylors Mill website. The location is simply inspiring, especially if you like industrial space with wood, metal, and rust, like me. Luckily, my guide, Jeff of Memento Antique and Estate Liquidators, does so we hit the good stuff.

Raw, wide open spaces, room to breath, hallways and nooks that beckon, so wonderful.

Naturally, in such an amazing space, there are amazing artists. I got to meet Joseph Everson of Joe's Studio and see his work. Beautiful paintings ranging from classic black and white architectural, to unique portraits bursting with color, and tons of cool guy pieces featuring movie and comic book characters. Just a heads up, he did a Darryl Dixon painting that is signed by Norman Reedus. If you're a Walking Dead fan, you're gonna want to get that. Check out Joe's work at www.joeeverson.com!

Large spaces lend room for large installation pieces. These sculptures were awe inspiring in size and subject matter. 

Here are a couple of my favorites.

First this piece by Allison Anne Brown. Find more about her at http://www.allisonannebrown.com/.

And this piece by Carey Morton. Find his work at www.careymorton.com.

All this creativity needs some liquid fuel and Due South Coffee Roasters have answered the call! Amazing space, friendly staff, and lots of space to sit and conspire. Check out their Facebook page as they work on their website. Enjoy coffee there or grab some fresh roasted beans to go!

I'm sure you can see why my brain was in full on manic mode and almost exploded later that evening and it wasn't just the coffee. Such a cool place with so many amazing things to see! If you are in the Upstate, be sure to keep up with the goings on at Taylors Mill and definitely hit them up on First Friday's.

Just a warning, that feeling you may get is not a heart attack. It's just your creativity being thrown into overdrive.

The Splendor of Cabin Trip 2014 : Homage de Bryson City, North Carolina

A couple weeks ago, we took the long awaited for winter vacation that is Cabin Trip. So many hopes and dreams, and it lived up to them all. There is nothing more relaxing and rejuvenating than being in the woods and doing absolutely nothing. Well, almost nothing. Here's how it went, as I continue my love affair with Bryson City, NC.

First I closed up shop, packed the car, and drugged the dogs for the ride up there. 

I hate to close the shop but one of the wondrous things about Cabin Trip is no connectivity. I always think I'm going to hate it and I cling to my phone like a child with it's teddy bear. For the first day, I still check my phone (even though it is in airplane mode) like messages will magically arrive. Nope, if you want to get a hold of me, it's smoke signal only!

The ride up there is typical mountain highway, until we get of the beaten path close to the cabin. I remember the first time we went last year, my PIC looked at me like I was trying to cash in on his life insurance policy. It gets rustic. Folks aren't too fancy, they don't much care for upkeep, and the yard is just another storage area for junk and trash. Quite a feast for the eyes! Then you leave paved road and you are crawling up a gravel road, with deadly curves, no guard rails, on the edge of a cliff, hoping you don't get a closer view of that beautiful valley below. Needless to say, you are pretty glad for a small patch of flat ground when you finally pull down your driveway and into your parking space. 

Like I said in my previous post, cabin decorating can be pretty interesting. But this cabin was beautifully and simply decorated, with a kitchen fully stocked with everything you need, and between the hot tub, fire pit, pool table, air hockey, fooseball, and games, there is plenty to do. Oh yeah, and the view is amazing!

First thing I did was promptly find myself a spot on the couch and started to read. And did I read. And read. And read. Ok, this is why I don't read at home. Nothing else would get done! One day I sat on the couch and read for 6 hours straight. Talk about pure bliss! During this trip I read 3 books. "Orphan Train" by Christina Baker Kline was the first book I read and my favorite. It followed and paralleled the lives of two orphans, one from the early 1900s, one modern, weaving together history, heartache, and redemption into one amazing story. Next I read "At The Mountains of Madness" by HP Lovecraft which was just a great creepy, sci-fi, terror read. And rounded things out with "The Great Gatsby" for my classic fix. We worked on a puzzle. Seriously, who ever has time to sit and stare at a box full of cardboard pieces and painstakingly try to fit them together. We did.

Although PIC was being quite accommodating as I descended into my own world (or the world of the book I was reading), I sensed that he was itching to actually do something. So we did a bit of exploring.

Tons to see and do in this area, especially if you love the outdoors. We walked down the Nantahala River, taking pictures. We walked back on the Great Smoky Mountain railroad, where I found a treasure trove of wonderful rusty railroad spikes! We took a drive to Mingo Falls, a great waterfall hidden just a couple hundred feet off the road. Rocks, water, trees, bark, moss...just a few of my favorites things.

Needless to say, the weekend went fast and suddenly it was the last day. So much to fit in! We hit the road for some exploring and junk finding. Let me tell you, there is nothing like the back roads of NC. Like I said, these people let it all hang out. They like to share their junk collection with nature and share they do! Found a little place that sold my favorite delicacy from childhood, Slush Puppies.

We got some wood, made a roaring fire, ate popcorn, and drank our Barrel Aged Chocolate Cherry Stout from Nantahala Brewing Company as we star gazed and solved the world's problems, fireside.

As we waved goodbye to Bryson City and headed on down the tracks, we decided to try to ride home on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Signs at the entrance stated to avoid if it was foggy. It was foggy. But we went anyway. There is a reason that sign was there. 

Visibility was quite limited and as we were not in the mood to see if the car could fly and scenic views had all the splendor of a cotton ball, we got off at first chance.

So back to civilization we went and we have not been the same since. We are still on "cabin time" which includes staying up late, getting up late, having no responsibility, and eating junk food. As in, we wish we could do those things but alas, duty calls. I feel like I need to go into a rehabilitation program. Until next time, cabin!

Lots of wonderful rustic treasures were found on this trip. To see them go to Maliasmark on Etsy!

Vintage Into Art : Creepy Doll Vogues for JRD Photography

Strike a pose, vogue, vogue, vogue. You're singing it now, aren't you? You're even doing the hands. It's ok, I won't tell anyone.

I sell vintage but I started out buying vintage items to repurpose into art. So everything I buy is through the eyes of an artist and much of it is with the intention of possibly creating something with it in the future. Sometimes, that can be in the near future, most of the time it is in the distant future. In the meantime, I can't just let these wonderful items stay hidden away so I give my customers first crack at creating something amazing. I am happy when an item goes to a loving home of any kind but I always secretly hope it will be repurposed into something cool.

One day last month, someone bought one of my creepy dolls. After having used some previous dolls in a photography shoot, I think these dolls make great subjects for expressing a number of emotions through their emotionless stares. You can just imagine my delight when Jace Delgado of JRD Photography shared with me some pictures of how he used the doll he purchased from me on Etsy.

Maybe you can't imagine so let me help you. Ecstatic, mind blown, love it are a few words and phrases that come to mind. So awesome to see the potential of this doll fully realized through the eyes of this amazing artist! His photos are a feast for the eyes, rich in texture and subject, visual and implied. 

Take a moment. Compose yourself. Prepare yourself for razzle dazzle. Ok, check out a few of them...

I know, it's easy to get lost in them but bring it back. Focus. I'm talking here. Could you ask for a better re-imagining of this vintage piece? I think not.

Thank you so much to Jace for sharing his work with me! What a range on this guy. From your portraits, landscapes, sports shots, weddings, and boudoir, to his haunting steampunk work (my personal favorite), this guy does it all. Check out his website at http://500px.com/JRD_PHOTOGRAPHY and be sure to like him on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/JRDPhotographyOHIO to keep up with and be inspired by his latest and greatest. Warning : Clear your schedule, you're not going to want to stop looking until you've seen it all. 

Find your own treasures and be inspired at Maliasmark.

Homage De Cabin Trip : A Feast for the Eyes

Well, I just booked our second annual March cabin trip into the Nantahala Mountains of Western North Carolina. And I am psyched! 

Last year, as I was booking our first annual March cabin trip, it was all for my better half to get the peace and serenity he desperately deserves but I was skeptical. How great could it be? No beach, no wifi, no room service...come on. I am here to tell you, it is pretty awesome! 

Cabin trip holds amazing relaxation and experiences. 

• We read books. I can never read unless I'm on vacation because there is always something else to do. Last year I stocked up on dark, ominous, and terrifying apocalyptic novels. Perfect for being alone in the middle of the woods. I read World War Z, I am Legend, and Never Let Me Go all in a three day time span. Love!
• We crank up the crock pot meals. I am on the Pinterest crock pot freezer meal band wagon and I am not afraid to admit it. Who wants to take a million ingredients but what's the alternative? Sandwiches? Uh, no. Meals in a bag, that's what! I made meals from here http://www.ringaroundtherosies.net/2012/02/freezer-cooking.html, and here http://www.sixsistersstuff.com/2012/09/slow-cooker-freezer-meals-make-8-meals.html, with these super easy two cookie chocolate chip batches http://www.pinterest.com/pin/114138171778349840/. Let's just say we did not go hungry or want for a restaurant.
• No wifi. My better half likes to joke about how happy he is when I can't check my phone but he is on his just as much. Sounds like it sucks but it is nice not to even check your phone. You don't need to. No one can reach you. No bothers. No stress. You don't even realize how much a phone intrudes on your daily life until it doesn't. 
• We enjoyed the scenery. What an amazing area! First of all, our cabin was perched on a mountain with an amazing view. During the day, mountains. At night, no city light polution equals amazing night sky. With a cabin fully equipped with shuffle board, air hockey, pool, a fire pit, and hot tub, we had plenty of entertainment. When we ventured out, the Nantahala River, known for it's white water rafting, was just down the road and we discovered Nantahala Brewing Company in Bryson, NC. Fantastic little brewery, brewing up amazing brews, including my personal favorite, Chocolate Cherry Stout. Check them out at http://www.nantahalabrewing.com/. If you don't live in North or South Carolina, I'm sorry. It's unassumingly amazing. I book our trips thru http://www.carolinamountainvacations.com/.
• We get to take the dogs! When we leave, it's always hard to leave our babies and it's hard for them too. Or at least I like to think so. After a harrowing couple hours of pacing, panting, and whining in the car, we arrive and they make themselves at home. It's nice to have the whole family together.
• We had a near death experience and lived to tell about it. Not really but kinda. I decided it would be a great idea to take a midnight ghost hike in the Smoky Mountains. Sounds fun. What could happen with a group of 20 people walking through the woods at night. Well, it wasn't 20 people. It was just us and the tour guide. I'm sure you can see that this is less human shields and less people that I have a chance of out running. It is pretty spooky alone, in the woods, in the dark where bears and mountain lions live, let me tell you. I almost took an unsolicited piggy back ride on the tour guide on the way down the mountain. If you feel the need to value your life just a little bit more, check them out at http://www.paddlefishbasecamp.com/. Of course, I am kidding. The only real danger I was in was of a heart attack because of my own anxiety and terrible night blindness. Whose idea was that?!

I'm sure you can just envision the rustic bliss we encountered. So here we go again and I can't wait! 

If you've ever been to a cabin, you know the horrific interior design that often times assaults your eyes. Mountain lions aren't the scariest things in the mountains, this decor is. So in anticipation of our trip, I put together my idea of cabin decor. Sometimes rustic, sometimes quirky, it's more about coziness and the outdoors to me. So without further adieu, I give you...Homage De Cabin.

It's a lot to take in. I'll give you a moment.

So yeah, as previously mentioned, cabin trip includes books, reading, and also movies. We got our luggage, a lantern, and a deer jaw as a nod to our wildlife friends.

Here we have a lot of random masculine stuff because I do what I want. But there is an Old Ezra Whiskey box because, obviously, drinking is happening and my praying hands salt and pepper shakers because if I come across a mountain lion, Imma do some prayin.

Ok, we got all our thermoses for delicious coffee and lots of it. And a typewriter, because if I was a writer, what better place to write? I guess I am writing now. Maybe I should blog up there...

All this on a Native American Wool Table Runner, since the Nantahala Mountains were found by the Cherokee Indians. 

One last look!

So, are you feeling it? While on my cabin trip I will be sure to keep my eyes out for coveted mountain junk spots and try to bring back some fabulous new items. All items pictured (except my typewriter) are available for purchase to decorate your own cabin or create a cabin feel at www.maliasmark.etsy.com. Plan your own cabin trip soon! You won't be sorry. Unless you take the midnight ghost hike. Then you might be sorry. Just kidding (not really.)

My Spots : Finding Vintage Treasures in Upstate South Carolina : BLDG 109 in Easley, SC

A vintage re-seller and altered art artist is only as good as the local junkers and salvagers in their area. As I look at all the vintage dealers, each vintage shop is a reflection of the area they live in. And we have some great little out of the way shops that I love to frequent here in the Upstate of South Carolina!

Some may want to keep their stops to themselves but I don't mind sharing these great shops for several reasons. First, I am confident in my brand. I am looking for a specific look and interest. When you go, you will not see the same things that I see. You will find your own unique treasures! Second, I want these local businesses who have added to my inventory to be successful too.

Today, I am highlighting BLDG 109 in Easley, SC. Owner, Dickie, has an eye for great pieces! The variety at BLDG 109 is one of a kind. 

Part thrift store, part junk store, part supply store, part antique dealer, there is something for everyone here! Last time I was there, I ran into a friend who owns his own computer repair business, looking for parts. BLDG 109 truly caters to those from all industries. When you go in, roll up your sleeves and start digging. Or, if you're not in a digging mood, let Dickie know what you're looking for. He knows where everything is and after a few minutes of getting to know you, can make suggestions based on your taste.

When I go, of course, I am drawn to the old, paint peeled building next door. It's my favorite place to explore at BLDG 109.

Sure, it's a little dangerous which is probably why I like it. Be careful not to fall through that hole in the floor! This is where you will find lots of furniture, stereo equipment, and his coveted piano boards with the decorative brand names that make great art and mantels.

If you are thinking about hitting the road to find your own diamond in the rough, stop by and see Dickie at BLDG 109. If he doesn't have what you're looking for, he'll find it or know someone that does!

BLDG 109 is located at 109 Gulf Street in Easley, SC, right around the corner from Easley's Main Street and downtown. Plenty of little lunch spots to enjoy before or after you shop!

BLDG 109 Facebook Page

Search BLDG 109 on Greenville's Craigslist. Dickie regularly posts pics of new items there.

Vintage Valentine Gift Guide : Meaningful Personal Gifts to Win Major Points

It's that time of year again, that holiest of holy holidays that is both loved and hated alike...Valentine's day. Sure, it can be a lot of pressure. Sure, you can join the anti-Vday movement and protest. Sure, you should let your special someone know how you feel all year long. But you don't, do you. Well, don't feel bad, neither do the rest of us. While we wish we lived in a romantic movie world where flowers, champagne, chocolate, and sweet nothings abound, the reality is we have to deal with life. And life can really take it out of ya! So, this Valentines, take this day to focus on that person that loves you all the year round, even while you're sick, angry, or when you tried that juicing diet and made them join in.

What's in a gift? When it comes to gifts, especially Valentines gifts, you can spend a lot of money but meaningful gifts are where it's at. Just looking out for you. I'd hate to see you waste your hard earned dollars. This is your chance to show you've been listening, you get them, you care enough to find that perfect unique gift.

And vintage offers some pretty unique gifts. Everyone loves a special gift that no one else has. From the odd to the one of a kind to the impossible to find to the nostalgic, vintage can be the perfect meaningful gift for your love.

For Him : Oh him, you are seemingly so hard to shop for. Here are some ideas...

For your stylish guy : 

Dress him up in vintage style! You won't find these at the mall.

For your child at heart: 

These nostalgic gifts appeal to your fun guy!

Style his space:

Surprise him with vintage guy style for his pad or man cave!

Sleek Mad Men Bar or Rowdy Pub:

Create the perfect bar area for him!

For her : Valentine's day is easy for guys, right? Some flowers, some jewelry, a little chocolate, what could go wrong. Take an extra step this year. I promise you'll be happy with the results.

Kitchen Gifts: 

If she knows all the cast members of 

the Food Network, you're golden.

Crafty Gal: 

Does she like to make stuff? Get her some unique supplies!

Operation Organization:

Get her some stuff to organize that craft space!

Dark Girl:

Does she like things that are a little bit different?

Gifts for everyone : Whether you are a girl or a guy or just showing a friend or family member how special they are, these gifts work for everyone!

Office Organization & Decor:

Nothing feels better than an organized office, except maybe an office organized & decorated with really cool items!

Original Art:

Original art can be so personal! Not only are you giving the item, you are giving everything that goes into it. (see earlier post on what goes into an art piece.)

Whatever you decide on, don't forget to include a special message in a vintage bottle! They are the price of a greeting card but you get a cool vintage bottle to keep forever. They arrive personalized and I even give you a cheat sheet of sweet nothings to put inside!

Whether you celebrate or not, no matter what you give or receive, I hope you take the time to think about the ones you love this Valentine's Day!

Find these items and more at www.maliasmark.etsy.com

What I Wouldn't Sell : My Special Favorites

I sell stuff. It's what I do. I think my family thinks I would sell my own grandmother if I could. But everything is not just an object to be sold. Each piece has a personality, a story, a history. I get attached to almost every item, even the ones I sell. I'm sad when they leave me but happy to pass them along to someone that will love them. 

Sure, some stuff is just...stuff but some stuff is special and I wonder why these items weren't special to someone else. 

Here are some items that I will never sell. Some I just love, some have sentimental value, some are just super cool and I want to show them off. 

• Needlepoint Art made by my Grandma, with my Grandpa's signature beer tab hangers on the back. Love these. There is a lot of history and their personalities in these pieces. Since neither of them are still with me, even more special.

• Postcards that my great Grandmother received dating back to 1901. My grandmother just gave me these. I think she thought I would sell them but there is no way. I do love them and will be looking for some that I am not attached to for resale. :)

• Jewelry Box that was my Grandmas. The ballerina is missing. The music doesn't play. But every time I open this jewelry box it smells like my grandma.

• Antique Seltzer Bottle. No sentimental value. Just love the green glass, rusty metal around it, and who knows what the mystery fluid is inside.

• Enamel Gas Station Sign Letter M. A couple years ago I bought a pile of enamel gas station sign letters that spelled out "happy" and "m". How perfect is that? As you can see, I do not clean off my vintage dust. :) 

• Antique Mirror. Bought this at a junk store. The framing in the back makes me think it's old and possibly handmade. No stamps or identifying marks. I don't usually like traditionally antique things but I love the decoration on this and my favorite is how the mirror is fading and chipping away at the bottom. I would never find anything like this again.

• It is downright weird how much I love these corbels. They don't match, the paint chips off daily, they were in a fire and the backs are half burned off but I think that's why I love them.

• Super cool surveyors tripod which my brother turned into a floor lamp. Love the height, the spindly legs, the different metals and that my super analytical brother did something creative for me. This year I hope to learn more about rewiring fixtures. So many cool things to do with lighting!

So there you have it. I do have a soul.

I would love to hear about your favorite vintage items! Feel free to share in the comments section.