Classic collectibles in a classic location

Judy Mora and her daughter Amy Beeman are a formidable shopping duo for whom the thrill of a department store sale pales in comparison to the lucky tag sale find.

Now, Mora and Beeman shop professionally as coowners of San Luis Obispo store, Vintage Etc., which is located in the historic Ah Louis Building.

Formerly called The Nest, the shop acquired a new name when Beeman came on board last February. It has also evolved its merchandise since it opened five years ago. Now, in addition to vintage home decor, the shop carries new merchandise such as handmade jewelry by local artists, textiles, kitchen items, and gift items like French soaps and soy candles. Now the ratio of old to new is around 50/50.

Mora and Beeman use vignettes to demonstrate ways to creatively combine old and new home decor. Old chests, stacks of suitcases, glass containers, vintage trays and bowls all become vessels for thoughtfully arranged home accents. Vintage silver adds a touch of sparkle to displays. It offers inspiration to dig out those old heirlooms and put them to good use in the home.

Although the duo has branched out to in-home design consultation, they still find plenty of time to source vintage goods from flea markets and estate sales such as furniture, silver pieces, tableware, chandeliers, and lamps.

“Anytime we’re out we’re always looking — even on vacation,” said Beeman.

A recent entry on her blog detailed an earlymorning tag sale run.

“My kids were squished in the middle of the car with vintage lawn ornaments all around them, a true sign of a fabulous day!” she wrote.

Home items are primarily cottage in style. Vintage furniture has been lovingly maintained or restored, yet kept within an affordable price point. No fussy antiques here.

The owners make the most of the shop’s quaint mercantile feel, creating displays that invite leisurely browsing. A wall of old shelves showcases a large collection of candy-hued Pyrex bowls. Themed merchandise inhabits other sections of the store.

There is aParis-themed area with black accents and Eiffel tower motifs. A beach cottage section has blue and seashell-themed accents. Those enchanted by the bird-themed merchandise carried by The Nest will be pleased to still find bird’s nests, birdcages, and robin’s egg decor. The store also has English, canine and baby-themed sections.

As winter merchandise is cleared out, Beeman promises more pieces to help usher in spring such as spring florals and garden items.

Vintage Etc. is at 800 Palm St. in San Luis Obispo, 594-1942.