If you work hard so you can shop even harder, Wilson is the place for you. We have cute boutiques, things your grandmother’s grandmother left behind, and local galleries full of imagination and surprises. To help you get around, we have pulled together a quick guide that matches local stores to some common and not-so-common shopping personalities. Find where you fit below and set your charge card to go. It’s shop-o-clock somewhere.
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THE COLLECTOR:
Loves breaking social constructs, was voted “Most Unique” in high school, take on the world by storm through their activism and creative protest signs.
WHERE THEY SHOP:
Iconostar Gallery, Wilson, NC
Inside the stark white, former gas station that holds Iconostar Art, you’ll find bright, bold, beautifully provocative art. Giant, mosaic sculptures will be the first thing to catch your eye. The signature pieces of artist Elizabeth Laul Healy, representing “Iconostars” (strong and beautiful women) fill this contemporary working studio and shop. Elizabeth’s work has been collected by people across the globe and by various celebrities and movers and shakers, and now you can see it and collect it for yourself. Get up close to appreciate the intricate detail of these “big strong beautiful badass” female sculptures. Spend some time studying the vivid paintings, t-shirts, and jewelry for sale and feel the positivity.
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THE INFLUENCER
The friend you always want for Secret Santa, can make you knitted sweater in two days, loves supporting artisans that use reclaimed or recycled materials, has the most unique collections out of your friend group.
WHERE THEY SHOP:
Wilson Arts Gallery, Wilson, NC
Walk into the immense space at the Wilson Arts Center and try not to gawk. Formerly a Roses department store, this lovingly restored, bright gallery space now features a cleverly curated display of art exhibitions and a large gift shop within the 10,000 sq. ft space. The gallery welcomes a rotating cast of community and professional artists and their works. The gallery shop contains some one-of-a-kind gifts. Some are so tempting you many want to treat yourself.
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ALWAYS SMILING:
Likes dinnerware with a little personality, believes there is no such thing as having too many pillows, the one person you know who has a bigger China cabinet than your grandmother.
WHERE THEY SHOP:
Something Old, Something New, Wilson, NC
If you’re looking for a unique gift for your friends, family or even yourself, check out Something Old, Something New. It’s not your typical gift store. Located in a historic home in Downtown Wilson, it offers everything from vintage decor to quirky gifts to exclusives by local artists. Often you can find items here you won’t find anywhere in the South. The store inventory is constantly evolving. So each time you visit it feels like a different place. If you see something you like, get it now. It may not be there tomorrow. Remember, buyer’s remorse works both ways.
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ANTIQUE PICKERS:
People who like old stuff from dead people, think of furniture when they hear the word “Chippendale,” will not be found near an IKEA.
WHEERE THEY SHOP:
Boones Antiques
When you can talk about your inventory in terms of acres, you’re not just a store. You’re a destination. Such is the case with Boone’s Antiques. This Wilson store holds the largest treasure trove of antiques on the East Coast, if not the entire country. Their inventory is procured from all over the world and draws in famous shoppers like Martha Stewart and even a few HGTV house flippers.
Looking for an early 19th century French Gilt Console table? They have it. Need a Vernis Martin style grandfather clock? They have that, too. Give yourself a day or more to browse and decide what you’re taking home. Boone’s ships globally. So, there’s no need to worry about how to get that antique armoire in the backseat.
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THE BUYERS & MAKER
Likes turning trash to treasure, is the only person you know who uses Pinterest, considers Lowes and Home Depot to be their second home, the “don’t throw that away, I can use that for something” friend.
WHERE THEY SHOP:
Rummage Warehouse, Wilson, NC
Activate your inner shopaholic and head over to the Rummage Warehouse. This 10,000 square foot building is filled with treasures just waiting to be found. Inventory comes in weekly from estate sales across the South. Inside you’ll find everything you want and nothing you’d expect. Retro modern side tables mingle with country sideboards. Quilts fall lazily over a perfectly padded sofa. Accent pillows abound in colors that match hand-blown glass vases and plates and paintings. If it was in Grandma’s attic, excluding Grandpa, you’ll probably find it here.
