Creating and designing a retail store is similar to remodeling a house but you must work within the guidelines of the landlord. We searched for seven long months before we found a home for Southern Simplicity. Once we signed the lease and we knew our dream of owning a store was finally a reality, we headed to Chiloso Mexican Bistro to celebrate.
Now the hard work began! There were many decisions to be made – walls, ceiling, flooring, lighting, electrical, displays…the list seemed endless! We started with the basics…the floor plan. How much space did we need for a checkout counter, office, and storage room? How could we make the warehouse looking space feel cozy?
It was an easy decision to get rid of the ceiling tiles, numerous walls, and the carpet. We wanted to open up the space with a high ceiling, flexible floor plan, and concrete floor. Old materials were sent to a recycling company.
Bryan worked many long hours on the demolition and new construction!
We experimented with out our paint selections on the walls to make sure we liked them.
Merichelle found this stylish wallpaper online.
Paintable wallpaper is a great option for adding texture to a room. This was used in the restroom and floral area.
Living Room area wallpaper
These Victorian ladies look over the Jewelry area.
Dining-Living Room area BEFORE
Dining-Living Room area AFTER
Baby area BEFORE
A wall was added next to the restroom to enclose the storage room.
Baby area AFTER
Floral area BEFORE
Floral area AFTER
South Wall BEFORE
South Wall AFTER
While on a picking trip, Merichelle and Bryan found some old newspapers from the ’40s and Life magazines from the ’60s. We used wallpaper paste to create a collage on one of the walls.
Merichelle designed a raised stage area and Bryan built it. They are a great team!
We borrowed a couple of items from our home to add some sentimental warm touches to the store. The arch from Merichelle and Bryan’s wedding creates an entrance to the Garden area of the shop.
The antique mantle from our home was used in the living room area of the store.
We were so happy and relieved to have the remodel behind us so that we could focus on displaying the things that we love…weathered wood, garden decor, aged patinas, vintage accents, unique gifts, and a touch of Southern hospitality!
It has been an amazing year…wonderful customers, new friends, fun trips to Dallas Market, and best of all – a new addition to the family…sweet baby Cade.
We hope you will join us Saturday, November 3rd for our One Year Anniversary Celebration!
Rockstar Bakeshop will be in our parking lot 10:30 – 2:30
