Antiques & Uniques is back with a full inventory of special finds

By Patricia Nugent

During quarantine, many of us had to forgo real-life pursuits that simply didn’t translate to the virtual realm, such as hanging out at the corner coffee shop or shopping. Clicking away to buy things online just doesn’t have the same thrill as encountering them up-close and in-person.

Since reopening its doors in mid-May, Antiques & Uniques in Wickliffe has been bustling with people releasing their pent-up energy by shopping with a renewed spirit of vigor. Spread over 24,000-square-feet with 100-plus dealers hosting distinctive booths, you’ll find everything from a furniture gallery and antiques to darling home décor, lamps, must-have collectibles, books and jewelry.

“I think people got tired of staring at their four walls during quarantine,” says owner Barb Berges. “It’s been wonderful to welcome back our loyal group of shoppers, from those who pop in weekly to tour buses of groups from all over the country and even Europe. Everyone has been raring and ready to shop again.”

She notes that while they shut down from March 15 to May 15, they scrubbed and sanitized every inch of the store. And a host of protocols helps them stay well within state guidelines, including staff wearing PPEs and requiring shoppers to wear masks.

“With five-feet-wide aisles and booths that are 10-feet-by-10-feet, we are pretty much made for social distancing,” says Barb.

The Fine Art of Repurposing
Now that we are in the height of porch and patio season, don’t miss the Outdoor Living Display in the front of the store. You’ll find everything from gorgeous wicker lamps, tables and chairs, to wrought iron furniture and lawn sculptures, serving ware and table linens, all with special pricing that will have you kicking back in savvy style.

“Both outdoors and in, farmhouse chic is trending. We have many things that fit that style, from galvanized steel wall word sculptures to dining tables fashioned from barn doors, collections of turn-of-the-century tools and salvaged architectural window frames and shutters,” says Barb. “Some of our dealers are artists, woodworkers and craftspeople who create fabulous one-of-a-kind pieces. You’ll find things like a retro bench repurposed from an antique bed, a steam punk coffee table crafted from factory equipment, and dining tables with live edge wood.”

Each of the booths has its own personality. “There’s a very feminine one with frilly lace and precious china. There’s a beach-y booth with anything and everything you’d buy for a lake house, and a sports-themed booth, just to name a few,” she says. “We reflect many different décor styles and periods, from mid-century modern to vintage, industrial and modern contemporary.”

To make things convenient for shoppers, there is one central check-out.

Helping the Homeless
Ever since opening, each month Barb and her team select a local charity and offer it a booth as both an awareness booster and fundraiser.

“We thought now would be the perfect opportunity to feature Little Annie’s Hope Train, a group that collects donations and delivers them directly to the homeless population,” she says. Check their site for a list of supplies they’re seeking, from shampoo to sunglasses, and bring a donation next time you pop in.

Antiques & Uniques is located in the plaza with Gabe’s at 30200 Euclid Avenue in Wickliffe. Hours are Wednesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sunday, 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.; Currently, the café is open for cold drinks only. For more information, call 440-944-0133 or visit AntiquesAndUniquesOH.com.