Tuesday Tip: Nightstands

We've all seen the generic nightstands at the furniture store: smaller tables, usually with a drawer or shelf. But all they really are is a place for you to store all the things you need before and after bedtime. With that said, why not break from the traditional table you have in mind?

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SUITCASES

Vintage suitcases make a great alternative! You can make them functional while putting your collection on display. 

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VINTAGE TRUNK

Trunks of any kind have an old-world vibe, with plenty of surface area for all your bedside necessities. 

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BAR CARTS

Vintage carts come in all shapes, sizes, and finishes! Find a metal cart with a great patina for an industrial feel, or go gold for a more glamourous look. 

You'll more than likely end up with more storage space than a traditional nightstand too!

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LADDERS

Don't have the space for a trunk or cart? Build up! A ladder gives plenty of space for knick-knacks on top of the popular farmhouse vibe.

Take a peek at some of the nightstand alternatives we have in store right now!

Did You Know?

Chalkware is a staple in most antique stores. Popular figurines were created from the late 18th century up into the 20th century, primarily during the Great Depression and in the Mid-Century Modern era. The earlier chalkware pieces were mostly intended as a more serious decorative art, as a form of religious and devotional art, and later on became more playful. It was even given out as carnival game prizes during the early 20th century, especially during WWII, but was later replaced by stuffed animals. (Also known as "Carnival Chalk.") Since chalkware is heavy and can easily be chipped, it eventually was replaced with ceramic and plastic alternatives in the 70s.

At The NAT, we are in no short supply of chalkware, and we run into plenty of the religious variety. This piece is one of the most unique we've had in store. The reverse-painted glass along with the statue give this piece so much character. Although they look similar, this is not a catholic sick call box, making it even more special. Instead of the bottom opening up to the typical contents of the sick call box, the bottom half has two windows, with a wooden toggle on the side that scrolls through different pictures and text of prayers of the Rosary. 

If you're looking for this, or any other type of religious décor, look no further! We have a wide variety in-stock, and would love to show you around!

 

 

Vendor of the Month

Hi everyone!

Kasey Tam here. I'm the owner of The NAT, and while I'm not sure I deserve to be Vendor of the Month (there's some tough competition in this place), I thought starting with me would be a nice way to introduce myself and tell you a bit about our future plans here on The NAT Blog. 

We've been seeking out ways to better connect with our loyal local customers as well as those who travel through this little city of ours, and figured monthly introductions would be a great place to begin. So, every month, we'll sit down with one of our 100 vendors and talk shop, life, inspo, and more! With that said, let's jump right in!

 

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Name: Kasey Tam

Business Info: From 6th Collective, The NAT, & Nest Interiors + Construction

Name three words that describe you. Dreamer + Creative + Loud

What items do you specialize in? Anything and Everything. Ha! I know that's broad, but it's true. I sell a lot of one-of-a-kind antique pieces, a couple of market lines, as well as all things weird and wonderful. I mean, who doesn't need a giant hornet's nest? Talk about a conversation starter.

What is your favorite place to source antiques? While in college, I frequented the antique shops along Dallas' Industrial Blvd. White Elephant was the shop that actually inspired me to go out on my own when I moved back to Amarillo. Now days though, I live for Antiques Week down in Round Top. We're really lucky to live within driving distance of a place like that. I'm already preparing the trailer for the next show this fall!

What is your most prized possession that you've "picked" over the years? I'd have to say the hand carved buffalo skull my husband and I purchased on our honeymoon in Bali. Getting to meet the artist that carved it makes it even more special. 

Where do you find inspiration? Mostly through pinterest and design magazines like Living Etc, Domino, and Elle Decor (the UK edition). I can't travel abroad very often, so I tend to browse magazines that are published over seas. I don't know what it is about Australia, but their design community is insanely innovative and inspiring to me. 

How do you spend your time when you aren't at The NAT? I'm usually doing the not so pretty tasks that keep the place afloat from my office or home; like balancing checkbooks, paying utilities, etc. I also own and operate an Interior Design & Construction Company with my dad and husband. My two toddlers keep me really, really busy on top of it all. But, I wouldn't have it any other way. My jobs allow me to travel all over in search of treasures to bring back and share with our customers. We take the kids on most buying trips as well, so I'm hopeful they'll appreciate this lifestyle as much as we do some day. 

What's your personal motto? Never hurts to try. I never dreamed I'd be twenty something and operating an antique mall, but it's been one of the best decisions I've ever made! I absolutely love the interaction I get from our amazing staff, vendors, and customers. If you've been wanting to try your hand at retail, The NAT is a great place to start!