Tales, Trails, & Transformation: A Spring Check-In from the Georgia Treasure Trail

Whew—April and May came in HOT.
And while I didn’t get to explore entire cities on the Treasure Trails like I hoped, the beauty of this season has been in the mini stops, the unexpected detours, and the big “aha” moments that are shaping both me and Empty Table Interiors™ in real-time.

This journey isn't just about vintage. It’s about vision. It’s about showing up for yourself, taking the scenic route, and finding inspiration in every corner—even when the GPS of life says rerouting.

📍Roswell: Restoration, Revelation & a Real Good Meal

I kicked off a recent stop in Roswell, Georgia where I took an Antique Metal Restoration class with the incredibly talented John Hinkel of Unique Décor at Painted Tree Boutique. Before class, I made a pit stop at Canton Street Social—because every good trail starts with a great meal.

Let me tell you, the Mango Margarita hit the spot, and the KFC sandwich? Crunchy, flavorful, unforgettable. Shoutout to Will, my waiter, who recommended I swing by Red Baron’s Antiques. That shop? Pure treasure trove. Full of bold pieces at various price points—ideal for styling short-term rentals or capturing eye-catching content for set design. Talk about inspo overload.

After browsing through Painted Tree’s unique shops—packed with everything from handmade goods to upcycled home décor—it was time to dig in. The restoration class reminded me just how much beauty lives in the layers. From tarnish to transformation, I left reminded that my work is just as much about revival as it is about resale.

🎬 Creating, Connecting, and Catching the Bigger Vision

In the spirit of expansion, I attended Space to Create at Cinelease Three Ring Studios, where I connected with other creatives to explore potential collaborations. Empty Table Interiors isn’t just a brand—it’s a movement. And I'm building something designed to serve makers, flippers, set decorators, and dreamers who need spaces (and stories) that speak.

Then came a heart-led detour—celebrating the grand opening of J. Tompkins Studio in Atlanta. Founded by the radiant Jenny Tompkins, the studio is a multi-line rep agency that makes luxury, performance, and sustainability accessible for designers across the spectrum. Her studio is like she is—intentional, elevated, and welcoming. I left deeply inspired and fueled to keep going.

🛍️ Nostalgia, Chinoiserie & Community at Ponce City Market

Next up: the grand opening of Nostalgia – The Vintque Market inside Citizen Supply at Ponce City Market. This Knoxville-based vintage gem has landed in Atlanta, and I was all the way here for it. A whole section dedicated to Chinoiserie (you know that’s my love language). I had a lovely convo with the owner, and let’s just say: we’ll be back. That’s family now.

🧭 What This Season Taught Me

This leg of the Treasure Trails reminded me of something big: transformation doesn’t always happen in the spotlight. It happens on quiet trails, in back booths, between sips of coffee and sparkly conversations with strangers.

Every stop—whether it's a bite, a booth, or a business—reminds me of the power of staying open. Open to new techniques, new people, and most importantly, new versions of myself.

🔁 Your Turn: Keep Following the Trail

Want more behind-the-scenes of my sourcing trips, styling ideas, and ways to turn your love of vintage into a business?
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Picture collage of Treasure Trails Travels in April/May
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Treasure Trails – Vintage Shopping in Monroe, Georgia – The Antiques Capital of Georgia