I was looking for something in my craft room earlier today and came across a bag of beads from a trip my friend and I recently went on. Okay…we live in Florida, but we didn’t go to the beach…we did what anyone with an addiction does…we indulged ourselves by going on a beading trip! We signed up for a wire class, which was fun, but what we really were looking forward to were the shops and distributors.

Timing To Sell

I recently finished up a five year tour as a combat medic in the U.S. Army. I never thought getting back on my feet so to speak would be so difficult. I had this idea in my head that everyone would want to hire a Veteran, and I didn’t take into account my disabilities. While in the service I had three ankle surgeries making it hard to stand for longer than 20 minutes, and I also was diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.

You’d almost have to be a hermit not to acknowledge economic matters happening all around you today – whether it’s gasoline or food prices, your kids’ tuition expenses, parent care, or postponing retirement because of gaps in health insurance or income. My husband, who is a Ph.D. in Economics, often discusses these matters pertinent to all of us, both socially and in his professional life.

I can’t count the number of times I have been asked that question from a shop keeper as they glanced up from a crossword puzzle, paperback novel or computer screen. The little bell on the door has just finished its last hushed “ding” and the question from obscurity rings out….“what do you collect?”. Often, not even knowing where the voice came from, I reply, “nothing”.

Ruby Plaza Shop: Falls Avenue Collectibles

Owners Name: Rita Zappitelli

Ruby Plaza Shop: Helens Hutch

Owners Name: Helen Baily

A little introduction: Although Ruby Plaza is my first online venue, I have been in the antiques and collectibles business for many years. I particularly like nostalgia and kitchen items. Included in the many items in my shop are Joseph Birthday Angels; Mrs. Albee Avon Award figurines; figural salt and pepper shakers; cookbooks and much more.

Ruby Plaza Shop: Krista's Korner

Ruby Lanes Shop (also called): Krista's Korner

Owners Name: Denise Perry

A little introduction: I have a home based studio where I create my pieces. Designing has become my passion and my full time job. I have been making jewelry for several years now and am completely self taught. My work has been featured in several magazines.

During World War II in the 1940s "make do and mend" was the motto. Nothing went to waste as ration coupons were hard to come by in terms of clothing. These days you'll see many restyled and DIY projects utilizing vintage clothing. Some of the clothing has been restyled regardless of whether the original item had damage or not. Still other items have been restyled due to damage that was not possible to repair.

Ruby Plaza Shop: A Mixt Bag

Ruby Lane Shop: Antique-ables

Owners Name: Beverly Pedulla

A little introduction: I have been in the antiques and collectibles business for 25 years. I specialize in Vintage Costume Jewelry, but have a vast array of different items in my shops. You will find: Stereo Views; Vanity Items; Hankies; Beatrix Potter figurines; Degenhart glass and so much more.