barn sale EXCITEMENT!

Okay . . . yesterday I visited the location for The HayLoft at Port Royal—it’s a barn sale that will take place Oct 19 & 20th—and to say I was blown away would be an understatement! The host, Shirley Thomas, had a vision; with the help of her husband, Knox, and friends, Bubba (introduced as “like a son”) and Dave, she has brought that vision into reality.
Shirley has been a long time customer and, as I tend to do with my customers, we have becomes friends. Often she will stop by Hodgepodge just to kick-around an idea for decorating, but about six months ago she brought the idea of a barn sale with her. We talked about it for quite a while. I told her I had been hoping to have something like that take place here in Clarksville for years. I have been invited to participate in numerous barn sales in the past few years, but I am often stymied by the issue of distance. (I just can’t be away from the shop—with inventory—for very long.)
Anyhoo, long story, longer . . . Shirley and crew have been working like animals to get their former milking barn ready for the big event. So I went out to see it yesterday.
On my way to find it, I was happy to notice a few barns were being utilized for smoking tobacco. I am fascinated by this practice, which is rather ironic, as I really abhor the use of tobacco products, but we all have our vices, don’t we? (As I live in a glass house, I will leave it at that!)
Back to smoking (as in, “curing”) tobacco . . . the scent is a herald of the season for many folks living in the south. Imagine my thrill when I pulled-up to The HayLoft location and saw those wistful plumes of smoke billowing out of the eaves!
Shirley was gracious enough to stop her hard work and take me on a tour of the place.

We started here—Shirley refers to it as “downstairs;” she was originally going to to just offer spaces on the main floor and had spent most of her time preparing that space, but the interest in this event has grown to the degree that she needed more space!

 Those are tobacco sticks she has used to fashion a wall to delineate spaces for the vendors. Love it!

Here is the main floor. It is vast and wonderful. I love the chandeliers—a barn isn’t a barn without chandeliers! Be sure to take a look-see at those lights around the perimeter of the Hayloft—they’re fashioned from Mason Jars, ingenious!

Tobacco sticks—I’m obsessed.

Here is a view of the chandeliers Shirley has constructed. She plans to add burlap slipcovers to those shiny new chains—a woman after my own heart!

A view of The Hayloft—food services will be available there in the room with the windows (she has thought of and provided for everything).

The smoking barn . . . major l-o-v-e!

As I was leaving, I turned around for one last shot—this is going to be so much fun!!!

Our booth will be located on the upper level, right next to Elizabeth Vaughn, of Artistic Works by Lu. I will have a full stock of Chalk Paint™, a few creative items, as well as some painted furniture samples; I will also be doing some demonstrations with Chalk Paint™. My sister, Kendall Welsh, will share the space with me. She will bring along some of her signature window designs and picture frames, as well as other items.
At last check she had more than 30 creative vendors beating down her door to participate! There will be handmade items, one-of-a-kind creations and antiques for the home and for yourself. You will not be disappointed!
I provided a link to her blog at the beginning of this post, but here’s her facebook page, too. (it’s her personal page, where she seems to be doing most of the posting about the event.)
One more item to note, there will be a special preview event on Thursday, the 18th from 4 – 7 pm. The cost is $10, which will cover your entrance to the event, food and music! (I say come early!)
Hope to see you at The HayLoft!
Thanks for your indulgence,

Dog Days of Summer Sale

Wondering what’s on sale during the Dog Days of Summer event at Hodgepodge?

Here are a few items . . .

starting top left and working clockwise—burlap pillows 30% off; hand-crafted champagne flutes 40% off; little black dress apron 40% off; le jardin melamine plates 30% off; bubble glass serving bowl, 40% off and decorative orbs 30% off; duvet and shams 40% off; enamelware-look shell bowls 40% off; boho votive holders 50% off; girls set of 6 bracelets 30% off and canvas bags 30 % off.

starting top left and working clockwise—whip stitched napkins 50% off; rag rugs 30% off; flameless LED candles 50% off; ivory handled dinnerware 30% off; fluted serving bowl on pedestal, 40% off; pink glass petal plates, 30% off; vintage couture aprons (full and half) 50% off; key to my heart gift 50% off; Scout bags and storage 50% off; porcelain gardenia votive holder 30% off.

AND THAT’S NOT ALL!  There are too many items to show here.  Rest assured, though, it’s worth a look-see.

Sale ends Jul 31st.

We are offering an additional 10% off of one sale item if you bring a donation for

Shawnie’s Rainbow Rescue.

Or you can drop a cash donation at the counter!

Hope to see you in the shop soon!

Thanks for your indulgence,

Dog Days of Summer Sale

We are in the midst of our biggest clearance sale ever.  Come in and take advantage of our need to create some space!  Click the photo below for a link to the low-down.

 

Dog Days of Summer Sale

Also, we still have some room for participants in our Chalk Paint™ Decorative Paints Basic workshop this Saturday at noon.  Call or email me to sign-up now.

More details available, here.

Thanks for your indulgence!

June Workshops

Annie Sloan Chalk Paint^TM Brand Decorative Paints

Programming note: All classes require advanced registration and a minimum enrollment. Deadlines are three days prior to event.

June 10^th or 20th—Chalk Paint^TM Brand Decorative Paints Basics Workshop

In this workshop, participants will learn everything they need to know to tackle their first or fifth painting project. You will have hands-on experience with three painting techniques. We will go over basic distressing and crackling techniques, as well as wax washing. Participants will learn to properly and effectively apply Clear and Dark Wax. Participants will also paint their own complete palette of Chalk Paint^TM Brand Decorative Paints. This palette will be ideal for determining which colors will work best in your home. Throughout the four-hour workshop, we will regale you with enormous amounts of information about Annie Sloan, her creative process and, of course, Chalk Paint^TM Brand Decorative Paints. $125 June 10 from noon – 4 PM and June 20 from 9 am – 1 pm

June 6^th or 16th—Chalk Paint^TM Brand Decorative Paints Redux Workshop

This workshop will teach participants the three basic techniques and wax application described in the Basic Workshops only. You will have hands-on experience with three painting techniques. We will go over basic distressing and crackling techniques, as well as wax washing. Participants will learn to properly and effectively apply Clear and Dark Wax. (No palette, sorry but this is a budget offering.) Workshops will last approximately 2 hours. $75 June 6^th from 9 – 11 a.m.; June 16^th from 1-3 PM

June 9^th and 16^th—Let’s Get Started

This is for those of you who just want to get started painting your first piece of furniture. Bring your own piece of furniture to our workshop space and we will paint it together. During this workshop, you will have unlimited guidance from your favorite local retail partner, umm . . . that would be me. In addition to the “technical expertise,” I will provide the paint and wax you need to tackle your project. We will work from 8 – 11 each morning. You are responsible for bringing your furniture to the shop. The fee will include up to two Chalk Paint™ colors, wax and other supplies needed (such as brushes and sand paper). We will learn from each other along the way. Join us. $175 June 9 & 16 from 8 – 11 a.m.

June 19^th—Lighten Up, Chalk Paint™ is easy

This is a workshop designed to help you salvage that old lamp you were planning to toss in the trash. Bring your own lamp (or one you pick-up at the flea market) and we will teach you to transform it into a show piece for you home. Three techniques will be offered—you choose your favorite. All supplies needed are provided—except the lamp. $45 begins at 9 a.m.—about 1 ½ - 2 hours (depending on your technique).

June 7 and 21—Wax on, Wax off

And finally . . .for those of you who just want to learn how to apply the wax—let’s face it, you know you’re stressin’ about it—we offer this mini-workshop. Learn how to apply clear and dark wax on a distressed finish in less than an hour. Fee: $20* Drop-in between 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. (does not require registration)

*this fee will be applied as a credit toward any workshop over $100 if you register within one week of your Wax on, Wax off workshop.

Check your calendar—workshops are filling-up!  Call us to register today.  931.647.0444

Thanks for your indulgence,

Mint Juleps for Mama

when:  May 10th

time:  all day (see below for specific activities)

Everyone’s invited—this event is for Mamas

and anyone who has one!

It’s time to celebrate the time honored traditions of the Run for the Roses and Mother’s Day. As far as I know, we are the only boutique that combines the two into a celebration known as

“Mint Juleps for Mama.”

This year we’re adding a little more to our celebration to include informative seminars, demonstrations and activities throughout the day.

For some participatory activities, you may wish to try our mini-workshops we’re calling:

“Make and Take”

Our first project opportunity will be to make Bird House Wall Art with Ryan and Travis. The project only takes a few minutes and will lend itself to many decorative uses in your home. They will offer this Make and Take at 11 AM and again at 5:30 PM. A small fee of $5 will be charged and pre-registration is encouraged as space is limited.

 

bird house wall frame

We will offer mini-workshops to learn a basic application for Annie Sloan Chalk Paint™ and waxes. There is a fee associated with this class, but for this special event, the cost is only $5—one-sixth of the regular cost of $30. These projects will be available at 11 AM, noon and 1 PM. Sign-up when you get to the shop and we will assign you a time to start.

Annie Sloan Chalk Paint Make and Take

At 6:15 PM we will have Nancy Telford, RN, MSN, here to talk to us about flower essences and essential oils for the home. Nancy’s nursing experience spans more than 30 years, but for the past 23 years she has extensively studied mind-body health, energy therapies, and natural therapies that promote balance and health. You can find her at holistic health care practice, Radiance, on Jefferson Street downtown.

Nancy Telford

Jennifer Stewart is also going to talk with us about Mindful Housekeeping. Jennifer is the owner of Jen’s Housekeeping. She is an advocate for the environment and chemical-free alternatives for safely cleaning your home. She can be found at Jen’s Housekeeping Service on Facebook every day and at Hodgepodge at 6:45 PM during this event!

Jennifer Stewart with her daughters

We will also be hosting Elizabeth Vaughn of Artistic Works by Lu. Elizabeth reps this beautiful line of handcrafted jewelry in the Ft. Campbell/Clarksville area. She will have her entire selection of gorgeous jewelry available for purchase at Hodgepodge from 5 – 8 PM.

Artistic Works by Lu

Refreshments will be available throughout the day, but—in an attempt to appear civilized—the Julep punch won’t be offered until after five.

So tell them family it’s “fend for yourself night” and join us!

The Vintage Marketplace

Make plans to attend!

Our first day at The Vintage Marketplace  is complete, so I thought I’d give you some incentive to come see us—as if you need some encouragement.

Some pictures of our booth.  We’re here to represent Annie Sloan Chalk Paint, so we brought a cross-section of items we’ve transformed with this wonderful product.

And then, a few other vendors:

This is the Time Worn Interiors booth—it’s talented owner, Theresa Smith, seen in the picture below with her husband, Craig, who pieces together a lot of the industrial items you see, although I understand that Theresa is rather handy with the welding torch, too.

 

Lavender & Old Lace has beautiful linen recreations.  Donna Shannon uses old linens to  create beautiful clothing and home accessories.

Then you can wander over to visit with Jackie at Shambora Studios.  She has the most imaginative displays and the easiest disposition! You will enjoy visiting with her.

Then—oh my, oh my—Kim Boyd-Hughs of Bungalow has the most amazing vintage furnishings AND the fabulously feminine attire from Magnolia Pearl

Here’s Sue Whitney’s display—she gathered items from all of the participants.

And then, oh, then, you must peruse  the Recycled Recreations booth of Erika Cady.  Beautiful jewelry made from found objects.  I feel sure I won’t be able to leave without a piece.

But across from our booth, the entire event, we have been delighted with the ever changing display of Urban Farmhouse.  I have been following her blog for years.  What a delight to finally meet her!

I hope if you have some time today that you will visit us in Hendersonville, TN at The Vintage Marketplace.

Thanks for your indulgence!

The Vintage Marketplace

I am not worthy.  Let the groveling and self-deprecating behavior begin.  I have had so much  good stuff happening lately, it’s hard to believe!  God is good.
First, I have been approved to stock Annie Sloan Chalk Paints.  I am thrilled beyond belief to add such an amazing product to the inventory at Hodgepodge. 
Then, as if that’s not enough, Tawnya Norton of C’est Moi, asks if I am available to help her represent Annie Sloan Chalk Paint at The Vintage Marketplace in Hendersonville, TN on Feb 2 – 4.  WOW!  (Note the  new badge there to the left of this blog post.)
This event is BIG stuff!  I was planning to go just to have the opportunity to meet some of my heroes . . . Sue Whitney of Junk Market Style fame . . . the creator of Urban Farmhouse, Lisa Maughmer . . . and Theresa Smith of Time Worn Interiors, just to name a few!
Now, I’m an actual vendor!   Tawnya and I are working on ideas for our booth—this is going to be a quick throw together, but Tawnya’s talents will shine through and I’m sure it will be wonderful.  As the emphasis will be the Annie Sloan Chalk Paint—you can bet there will be a lot of painted stuff!
Just make sure you mark your calendars and plan to join us—you will be glad you did!
Thanks for your indulgence,

ps--for the record, the best thing to happen in recent memory was having my mother come for Christmas and stay for a full three weeks!  I was so happy to have her here every evening when I walked through my door--ad not just because she had started (and often finished) dinner.  It was wonderful having her interact with my family for an extended period of time.  She is a very easy companion and I love her.  I'll revise my earlier comment . . .God is Great!

Paint it Pink for Breast Cancer Awareness Month

 

So, I was reading the facebook post of one of my friends, Oohlala Furniture , about a week ago.  In her post she challenged her fellow furniture painters to “paint it pink.”  She suggested we paint a piece of furniture pink, then auction-it-off to benefit breast cancer awareness.  I immediately thought of the friends I need two hands to count who are currently battling this heinous disease—then there are those in remission—then there are those . . . okay—I want to do this!

Here’s my contribution—a vintage vanity I painted (with the help of Kathy Owen and Caromal Colours).  My message . . .

The disease is ugly,

but you . . .

you are beautiful!

 

I was sharing the notion with Kimberly Santiago who immediately chimed-in that she’d like to make something to contribute.  Her one-of-a-kind creation is this beautiful mixed media rose.  She used the subtle innuendo of contour maps in creating the rose.

 

Kathy Owen also wanted to donate something for the cause—she was quick to offer up an Angel of Reclaim which she made especially for this auction.  Kathy recycles all of the materials used to create these unique angels.

 

My sister, Kendall Thomas-Welsh, also wanted to make something to donate.  She has created a great new sign to help promote the importance of focusing on this issue. 

‘nuff said, eh?

Most doctors agree and early detection is the key to combating breast cancer.  The Nation Breast Cancer Foundation has an early detection plan which you can view here.  Remember—YOU need to pay attention to your breasts!

This is going to be a silent auction.  You may place your bids at the shop or by calling the shop.  Bidding starts Oct 6th at 5 p.m. during Art Walk.

All proceeds will benefit the

Clarksville YMCA ABC (after breast cancer) Program.

During the 16-week program, participants receive full access to the YMCA, a customized exercise workout designed by a Pink Ribbon Certified® personal trainer, nutrition counseling with a registered dietician, along with encouragement and support by a caring staff and other breast cancer patients and survivors.

The services are offered free of charge thanks to donations and other funding.  I hope you feel this is worthwhile cause and will support the program by coming out to bid on these items.

If you have questions or (better yet) want to place a bid, please call us at the shop, 931.647.0444.

Thanks for your indulgence!