Recently I headed over to Rocky Mount to hang out with a few friends for a long weekend. It was my first visit to the area and I didn't really know what to expect. I'd heard about the growing craft beer scene there. I knew a little about the Tar River. What I didn't expect was the shopping. I'm not talking outlets or big box stores. I'm talking cute galleries with hammered copper jewelry, recycled doors and industrial fixtures turned into tables, wood-fired pottery and more. These are items you can't find just anywhere. I came here thinking maybe I would find a cool thing or two and ended up with a car full of goodies! So if you're in the mood for some serious retail therapy, I highly recommend you plan a visit. Below are a few of the places I found full of treasures. I just hope my husband isn't home when I open the car trunk. Happy shopping!
The Painted Teacher Boutique
Pop into this Nashville boutique and give your wardrobe an update. The storefront window is filled with just a sampling of the bright prints of tops and dresses that you'll find inside. They'll style you with on-trend accessories to give you the complete look. Fair warning: when you wear your new outfit from Painted Teacher, be prepared to answer, "Where did you get that?!?"
Tar River Flea Market
Who says shopping is not a workout? The Tar River Flea Market spans over 15 acres and offers spaces for more than 200 vendors. That includes outdoor shopping as well as over 41,500 sq.ft. of indoor shopping. Great finds can be found everywhere. Antique signs, furniture and clocks vie for attention. Toys and collectibles take you back to your childhood. You'll even find a larger selection of clothes, fine jewelry and more. You just need the ability to bargain and a sharp eye to spot treasure.
Girls Round Here
Y'all will be coming back to Girls Round Here. Specializing in Southern chic, this store carries more than 80 lifestyle apparel brands, including their own clothing line. Check out the cheeky, sometimes sassy, country girl t-shirts to make you laugh and make your gift-giving easy. They can put a monogram on just about anything. Not just for the gals, guys can find a new shirt, add to their camo gear, or top it off with something from their hat collection. Be sure to pay a visit to this fun shop.
Bulluck's Furniture
Who knew there was a home decorator's paradise located in downtown Rocky Mount?
Bulluck's has been the place to go for beautiful home furnishings and decorative accessories since 1900. No matter what décor style you're shopping for, Bulluck's has unique pieces that are sure to stand out in any room. Turn your bedroom into a sanctuary, make your living room more inviting, and maybe even bring your man cave out of hiding -- all for amazing prices.
**Shopping tip** Be sure to ask about their annual warehouse sale held in the historic Phipps warehouse. 80,000 sq. feet of furniture and home décor for 60-90% off retail prices. You'll want to plan ahead and borrow a truck (or two) just for that.
Bel Air Art Center
If you're anything like me, purchasing art can seem a little intimidating. But that's not the case at the Bel Air Arts Center. When you walk in the door, you're immediately inspired, and surrounded by unique, beautiful works of art. The vibe and the staff are both friendly and not-at-all pretentious. You'll also notice that the ginormous space is just as creative as the art within it. It was once a car dealership, and now it's filled with paintings in a variety of mediums, jewelry, pottery, furniture, and accessories. There are also local artists on-site creating and a yoga studio called Willow Tree that offers classes several times a day. Get ready to find lots of gifts for the hard-to-buy-for people in your life and of course a few for yourself! I guarantee you'll leave with a new appreciation for the arts.