Sometimes I like to share bits of our travel and adventures. Sometimes we stick close to home, like this recent night out in Minneapolis. Other times we venture a bit further, like last fall’s Chicago Trip, which included some happy chic shopping and gourmet popcorn. This past week we vacationed with family in Dallas. Among lots of other great things, including my son’s 5th birthday celebration, we did a bit of home shopping.
I love exploring and finding new stores when we travel. The Big D (Dallas) did not disappoint. I hit up 3 great stores I want to share with you.
Nicholson-Hardie
I am not even sure how to describe Nicholson-Hardie, except to say I fell in love. The unassuming exterior did not hint at the greatness within. The yellow doors beckoned me inside to show me the treasures it held.
I wish I lived in Dallas just so I could shop here often. I was not sure what to expect when I saw recommendations online to look at a garden store for home decor. It is of course much more than a garden store!
These faux plants and decorative balls were amazing. They would be great displayed under a bell jar. I am totally in love with the actual metal display stand, too.
The shelves are lined with color-coded home decor from reasonable to extravagant prices. So many great pieces…none of which I felt could be easily shipped home :( I am not really into candles, but this large hurricane with wooden stand caught my eye. It would look awesome filled with green apples or pears on a dining table.
Loved the interesting, big glass vessels…
The section of pots with lots of patina…
Even the displays were beautiful…napkins and placemats spilled out of these wooden drawers…
Oh and let’s not forget they carry plants, too. I did not grab a picture of that section, but you can only guess how lush it was from my sons pleas to go into the jungle!
Our trip was limited to window shopping, with the exception of bug spray to ward off West Nile virus. So glad they still had some in stock.
Arteriors Too
While hubby waited in the car with the boys I snuck into Arteriors Too for a peek. We could tell from the entrance I was in for close quarters and it was best to keep the kids in the car. Arteriors Too is the outlet for Arteriors Home Furnishings. I had seen much of their stuff online and wanted to see it in person. The outlet prices were nice to see too. Everything at Arteriors Too is at wholesale prices.
It was full of unique, high-end home decor. I liked this double candle holder. It reminded me of the couldren from the 2012 summer Olympics.
This mirrored screen was fabulous, but still over $500. Considering Arteriors retail prices it was probably a steal.
If I wasn’t traveling, I would have taken home one of these twist stools for $199. I loved the lighter, weathered wood.
The “shade room” was heaven. It was actually two rooms full of the most beautiful lampshades. If you are in the Dallas area and need lampshades, this is not to be missed. The ladies said you can bring in a lamp and they’ll help you find the perfect shade.
St. Michael’s Women’s Exchange
The name kind of sounds like a thrift store, but it was anything but. St. Michael’s Women’s Exchange is a high-end gift and stationary store. I found out later online, what makes this store unique is all the staff are church volunteers and all the proceeds are donated to charitable organizations.
I was enamored with this lucite bamboo chair…amazing. It was $325 and would not fit in my suitcase, so I passed. I hope someone takes this home and tucks it in at a fun colored desk.
I found a little treasure hanging on the wall that I did decide to take home. It was simply called “bells on rope” on the price tag. I loved the bells rustic simplicity. They were $38 for the set. The tin bells have a wooden ringer inside. They are probably meant to hang outside like a wind chime, but I think they will be an interesting touch in my studio. I am trying to stay true to myself and the things I see and instantly love. I see it, I love it, I buy it. If I have to reason with myself why I love it or why I need it, then I pass. The things I love at first sight will be the things I love for years to come.
Any great shops in Dallas I missed? We go about twice a year, so I would love to hear your home decor shopping recommendations.
I have lived in Dallas for ten years and I haven’t been to either of these stores! I am so glad you shared these finds.
Elizabeth, Don’t know how close you are to the university park or Lover’s Lane area, but these were definitely worth the trip.
Next time try Forty Five Ten, Nest, The Gypsy Wagon and The Wooden House!
Thanks for the recommendations, Danielle. Can’t wait to go back to Dallas and check them out.
I love going to First Monday Trade Days in Canton,TX. It is a huge Flea Market that has been in business for 100 years; originally a farmers and ranchers trade and sales center. But now,it’s heaven! You’ll have to plan your trip on the weekend that the first Monday of the month falls, but it is so worth the shopping experience.
Good tip. I have never been to a flea market and I am dying to go. Thanks Laura!
Haha! Be careful – you’ll be ruined for all but the biggest and best flea markets after going to Canton. Be prepared if you do go: give yourself plenty of time to shop, wear your most comfortable shoes, and take lots of cash! I say definitely plan to visit next time you’re in town.
Thanks for the tips Elizabeth! We were just in Dallas for the holidays (when it snowed), but timing and weather were off for a flea market. Hoping to make it back down there in the spring.