Lucky Day Emporium Expands

This may be your lucky day to discover a long-sought treasure or the perfect accent for your home.

at 3322b Lithia-Pinecrest Rd., Valrico, recently added 500 square feet and four new dealers to its antiques and collectibles shop.

According to Brenda Martin, who owns the shop with her sisters, Ginger Waring and Angela Randall, the expansion provides the opportunity to showcase a collection of painted and distressed antique furniture along with such unique items as a giant 1922 anatomical poster from a medical school.

"Imagine the stories that poster could tell," said Martin, who waited three hours at an antique auction for the chance to bid on the poster by famous illustrator Max Brodel. "That's just one of the unique things we offer here. We scour auctions, antique shows, flea markets and estate sales in search of unique items to bring to our customers."

Their finds include a framed Victorian hair wreath, a turn-of-the-century leather Red Cross case with the hat still inside and a fraternity hazing paddle from 1946.

All items are artfully arranged by Martin's, niece, shop manager Haylie Waring.

"Haylie is amazing at displaying items to their best advantage," said Martin. "She's really a stylist and can show anyone how they can use antiques in their home."

Not only are the items in the shop a piece of history, said Martin, but they're also a good investment.

"Unlike a new item, an antique will only go up in value and is a great investment in this economy," she said.

She added that customers can purchase an intricately carved Victorian bedstead or a distressed painted cupboard for their kitchen for less than a new piece would cost. "And they're probably made a lot better," Martin added.

The three sisters grew up surrounded by antiques. Their grandparents were antiques dealers in Lakeland and their parents were antiques collectors.

It was only natural, said Martin, that they would share that love of all things old.

Martin, herself, said she collects a little of everything though she can't resist bakelite jewelry or green vintage pottery.

"Our homes are filled with antiques," she admitted.

However, many of the antiques and collectibles make their way into the homes of Lucky Day Emporium customers who frequently peruse the shop looking for that perfect accent or childhood memory.

Martin added that there's something for every price range. A child, for instance can collect vintage dime-store charms for $3. Or someone looking for a unique gift can find an optician's glass for $4 along with a unique handmade greeting cards.

"We try to be different and offer unique antiques you won't find in other antique shops," said Martin. "And we show customers how to display their new items."

To see samples of their items, visit their website or friend Lucky Day Emporium on Facebook.