The rush of discovery

By Mimi Vanderhaven

Sociologists suggest that women are linked to shopping in the same way men are drawn to sports, and that women are “gatherers,” while men “hunt.”

Men apparently don’t carry the gene for appreciating how rewarding a shopping spree can be…the rush of discovering new things and making them yours.

And for those poor souls holed up and slouched over their computers, clicking away to buy things, Mimi suggests that’s not really shopping.

Making a Day of It
When Mimi heard about Antiques & Uniques in Wickliffe, she enlisted her favorite cousin and fellow shopaholic, Mona, to be her plus-one for some invigorating retail therapy.

Mimi and Mona are greeted at the door by Barbara Ann. She explains the novel concept behind A&U. There are more than 100 vendors spread over 24,000 square feet of shopping wonderland.

She let Mimi and Mona know that “walkers” would be moving about the store, occasionally checking in to take the merchandise of interest back to the simplified central check-out, where it would be waiting.

This makes it easier to meander through the adorably displayed booths.

The breadth of goods is stunning, from repurposed items to home décor and jewelry, ranging in styles such as vintage, early Americana, mid-century, industrial and modern.

While shopping, Mimi and Mona are also greeted by owner Barb Berges, who, along with her husband, Tom, opened A&U two years ago.

Barb says it’s heartwarming to see what people uncover every day.
“People rediscover items they remember fondly from their childhood,” she adds

Honoring Best-Made Furniture
The furniture gallery in the back of the store features to-die-for bedroom sets, bookshelves, coffee tables, dining room sets, armoires and even vintage school lockers.

Alas, all of the industrious “gathering” makes Mona and Mimi hungry. Luckily, there is no need to leave Antiques and Uniques, as the inviting Tree House Café provides a welcome break to grab a bite.

Amid retro leather banquets, Mimi and Mona enjoy Barb’s recommendation of the taco salad, and are not disappointed. Also on the menu are tasty hot dogs, sandwiches, wraps and other salads.

Mona properly fuels herself for more shopping with another must-try: The secret recipe homemade brownies. Mimi enjoys a steaming mug of hot chocolate that she is invited to sip while she and Mona shop on.

Here’s what’s waiting for Mimi and Mona at checkout after a successful shopping day:

• A signed wall hanging of former Cleveland Indians legends Carlos Baerga and Omar Vizquel.
• A new kitchen farm table with a live edge wood top.
• An authentic barn door on a sliding mechanism, just like the darling Chip and Joanna Gaines feature on their TV show.
• An agate slice pendant that will be Mimi’s signature necklace for 2018.

Lending a Hand in the Community
Maybe the only thing Mimi enjoys more than shopping is giving. At Antiques & Uniques, charity is a top priority.

Each month, manager Robin Hyett selects a local community charity and gives it a display in front of the store by the greeter. This month they are featuring the Hospice of the Western Reserve.

Antiques & Uniques is located within the Gabe’s Plaza at 30200 Euclid Avenue in Wickliffe. All major credit cards are accepted, and gift certificates are available. New photos of special items are posted every Wednesday on Facebook, and the merchandise changes constantly. The store has been named “Best Antiques” and “Best Furniture Store” in Cleveland by the Fox 8 Cleveland Hot List. Hours are Sunday, noon to 6 p.m.; and Wednesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information, call
440-944-0133 or visit AntiquesandUniquesOH.com.