This month features one of the cutest little vintage shops I know...
This lovely person is Mary-Ann Kuntz, small business owner and arts advocate in the small town of Millville, New Jersey. Her shop offers new artists a place to put their work and each month a new artist is featured. She also hosts an art show on the 3rd Friday of each month. Octopus's Garden has a balanced combination of jewelry, artwork, and crafted products all made to fit into her chosen themes of vintage circus, astrology, beach, and (of course) nautical creatures. I'm always attracted to her "Libra" items, but I shouldn't be biased.
A few items in her store were purchased at antique stores or flea markets. She explains, "I am inspired by the memories of my childhood and memories of my parents. My repurposed jewelry lines say a lot about the things I love; the beatles, astrology, carnivals, and movie monsters! I see potential and a new life in some of the old things I admire.
Who wouldn't want Gypsy Earrings?
Maryann's small business is organized, quaint, and not overly saturated. All her goods are displayed with pride to showcase the talents of the 27 artists and crafters she supports. "We think of our artists as family and are proud of them all. Most of what you'd find in my store you can't find anywhere else. My husband and I love Millville and our creative village. We want everyone to experience the magic here."
If I opened a small business, I'd have my cash register on an ironing board too!
Maryann made these necklaces herself with the original images from vintage sideshow posters.
A few years back, I finished this commission for Octopus's Garden.
In addition to local art shows, Maryann sponsors local wine tastings the second Saturday of every month in the creative village Octopus's Garden is nested in. If you're not into wine, there's a vegan cafe just a few stores away and the popular Wheaton Arts Village a few minutes away.
