South Kingstown Gets a New Antique Store

In March, Jules’ Antiques and General Store opened its doors, boasting 8,000 square feet of treasured “old” finds from the 17th century to retro 1970s finds all in one delightfully housed location.

On the outside, many may recognize the rustic red building on Route 138 that was formerly known as The Richmond Antique Center for the past 13 years. Step inside this charmingly renovated property and be prepared to journey through time and explore an amazing selection of antique and vintage pieces that will tug at your nostalgic heart- strings and beckon you to take a priceless trip down memory lane.

Owner Pam Lavoie is no stranger to running a successful small business. Her popular store, Nana’s Jules, offers antiques, fine consignments and handcrafted gifts right down the street at 91 Kingstown Road since 2011. “I’ve always had retail in my blood, but my passion for finding and offering quality antique pieces, in addition to other unique items that will be truly mean- ingful to a host of customers, was the driving force behind opening my new store,” exudes an excited Pam.

The new twist to Lavoie’s old approach with an antique business is the quaint and timeless general store that occupies a large portion of the first floor. Customers will be greeted witha homespun, fragrant atmosphere of fresh lavender, earthy spices and other subtle reminders of the simpler times in years gone past. A creaky floor board may also welcome you to come inside and browse the thoughtfully displayed venues featuring old-fashioned candy and treats, local cookbooks, organic cleaning products, candles, soaps, tea towels, serving dishes, fun kids toys and plenty more items that will catapult you back in time.

There are presently 50 antique dealers housed in Jules’ two-story antiques and general store. Many stayed on board when Lavoie took over this convenient location, but there are also lots of new faces on the premises, and they still welcome additional seasoned, professional antique dealers or amateur collectors to join them as well. Customers and dealers will have the pleasure of interacting with Lavoie’s two partners who are also her children. Son, Chad, is the dealer liaison and daughter, Julie, is the general manager.

The name “Jules” was affectionately taken as a play on Julie’s name, and “Nana” is the title Lavoie proudly wears thanks to her four grandsons. “The three of us research and know the inventory in this entire store,” remarks Lavoie. “This way we can be hands on to answer any questions our customers or dealers may have.” In addition, they offer eBay services for dealers/individuals who have specialized or one-of-a-kind pieces.

Those who dabble in antiques for pleasure or die-hard collectors will be pleased with the uncluttered layout and easy to navigate floor plan that offers an intimate yet energized collection of merchandise. Expect to find quality house wares, vintage linens and jewelry, taxidermy pieces, furniture, lighting, rugs, musical in- struments, clocks, fine china and glassware, artwork, dolls, rocks and precious stones, repurposed items, and pieces for the garden and patio.

Lavoie also specializes in estate services such as assisting with estate sales, assessing and organizing homes and estates for homeowners who may be relocating, downsizing, or dealing with a family member’s death.

“Our dealers bring a wonderful, ever changing selection each month. More than anything, we want your visit here to be an experience you’ll remember,” invites Lavoie.