Two Years and Counting
Shabby & Chic & Everything Neat
This past weekend marks the second anniversary for The Painted Bench in Hamilton. My journey down this path made much more beautiful with Chalk Paint™ by Annie Sloan started long before that.
For over twenty years I worked with several dance studios creating and sewing costumes. I loved working with the children and enjoyed being my own boss, but about four years ago I decided it was time to move on. Fortunately for me I thought that maybe my bedroom set could use some sprucing up and since I had some time on my hands I went searching for the perfect method for accomplishing that. It took a while but I finally stumbled upon a fabulous store called Diamonds & Toads in St Thomas, Ontario that sold Chalk Paint™ by someone called Annie Sloan! I spent the better part of an afternoon with Michelle Gallant, who was the most gracious hostess and answered all of my crazy questions. I left with my very first can of Old White and a can of Soft Wax knowing that some day soon I too would be selling Chalk Paint™ myself.
Opening day at The Painted Bench. May 3, 2013
I’m sure you all know where this is going, so fast forward to May 3rd, two years ago, to the day that Nicole and I opened the doors to our lovely little shop on Ottawa Street North. If you haven’t been to Ottawa Street in Hamilton you really should make the trip. It has a rich history as a fabric district all the way back to the early 1900’s and has grown to a street renowned for its fabric, home décor, antiques and trendy restaurants. It was a natural choice for me to locate a shop with upcycled and painted furniture and of course Chalk Paint™ on the street I have shopped on all my life!
Opening day at The Painted Bench. May 3, 2013
The style and layout of the shop has changed and evolved over the last two years and Nicole has her own lovely shop in Oakville now, so as expected things have changed while they have stayed the same. As I write this on the plane on my way to New Orleans for more Chalk Paint™ training, I can’t help but reflect on what the future holds for my wonderful staff and myself. In the upcoming months you can certainly expect new workshops, products and ideas, fabulous events on the street, and any number of surprises! One thing I know for sure is that you will continue to be the most important part of The Painted Bench, for without you we would not exist. So I will take this opportunity to thank you from the bottom of my heart for your loyalty and support and stay tuned for some wonderful things to come!
Melanie xo