First Weekends in the West Bottoms

Hickory Dickory

The West Bottoms is the place to be in KC on the first weekend of the month. I've heard about the great vintage shops there for over a year now and finally made my first visit yesterday. Now I can't wait to go again next month!

"Columbian Steel Tank Co., Tanks for the World"

I love it that enterprising vendors have reclaimed abandoned manufacturing offices and are drawing huge crowds. Vendors are encouraged to have enough inventory to turn two or even three times over the weekend.

Bella Patina

Bella Patina

I'm pretty confident that anything your mom or grandma may have owned or ever thought to own could be found here.

Bottom's Up

Good JuJu

I was so happy to see several old friends among the vendors, especially Chris Farr and her talented daughter. Chris uses vintage molds to make the most wonderful ceramic pieces while her daughter creates jewelry with a vintage look.

The buildings themselves are such treasures. I marveled at the detail and workmanship that went into the most mundane things. Imagine going to work and entering the building via these steps with their whimsical design

or taking the elevator in the elegant Stowe building and seeing it's name in mosaic tile when you arrive at your floor. 

It was a warm afternoon and I also marvel that they were able to get any work done during the long, hot summer. Even with the windows open and fans running the brick buildings tended to hold in the heat.

Hope to see you there!