Something Old, Something New

Who couldn’t use some new fall decor? (I say to myself as I buy my 1,700th spooky pumpkin). Or maybe you want to spruce up your space with something whimsical, antique, or even dare I say it, Christmasy. If this sounds like you, maybe take a little trip out to Christie’s Boutique in Olean, NY at 119 North Union Street, where you’ll find unique items both old and new just for you at their upcoming, “Its Fall Y’all” event.

Before we get into what that entails, owner Christie Brook shared with us how the shop came to be what it is now. “In 2016 my husband and I were exploring the possibility of moving back to Olean and we fell in love with this building. It was built in 1864 and much of the original interior remained intact. It is a one-of-a-kind historic building well known as the FR Brothers Pharmacy for most of its existence (although many people who shopped here in the 90s also remember it fondly as The Country Christmas Shoppe). After buying the building, we needed to find a business for the empty shop. I wanted something that would not only enhance the work being done to bring Union Street back to life but also support this wonderful community. I wanted it to be an asset and to be able to advocate for this beautiful area that I just love. After many iterations, lots of help from great friends, traveling all over to find the treasures to fill the store, and a handful of collaborations with our first amazing consignors, Christie’s Boutique officially opened December 2017.”

When Christie’s was first developed, she wanted it to be a place with a mission to support local business and community, where you can find unique items both old and new! Christie believes in building up the community and giving back, and that is exactly why she is devoted to supporting this area. It’s a great place to live with awesome people, history and architecture. Her hope is that 119 Unique Things will encourage more people to come see all the amazing things Cattaraugus County has to offer.

She went on to say that, “I was born and raised in Allegany, New York and developed a true love for the area and its surrounding communities. I chose to live here because I know this community for its beauty in all seasons, its strength and resilience in times of trouble, and its generosity to those in need. We are UNIQUE and I am excited to be a business in the walkable Olean district. I love bringing beautiful pieces of furniture, art and fun, to your home, and delight in sharing our wonderful space with people yet to experience this crazy beautiful city.”

So what is the upcoming event about? “Its Fall Y’all” is their seventh annual Open House event featuring exclusive handmade original items along with their always available unique treasures. It’s a celebration of newfound friends, awesome treats, and giveaways! There will be cupcakes from the Baking Witch, cookies, wine from Allen’s Wine & Liquor, and cider from Miller’s Farm Market. You can also sign up for a chance to win one of several very cool door prizes.

They’ve also got some great things lined up for after the Open House. Christie said, “Our Winter Open House will be November 9th from 11:00am-4:00pm ,and much like the Fall Open House we will be celebrating exclusive handmade original items! We love the magic of the winter season, and the shop is completely transformed into a winter wonderland.”

They will also have their Santa in the Window event in the weeks before Christmas. This is a fun nighttime event that brings Santa to their storefront windows. Last year they had dancing sugar plum fairies and Christmas carolers, along with hot chocolate and candy canes. Life is all about finding your own kind of crazy and the kind of crazy at 119 Unique Things is the best kind!

“We are unique because it’s not just about shopping, I have always wanted Christie’s to be an experience. Our customers come in because they say it just feels good to be here! We are all about community unique gifts and awesome finds for your home. We offer treasures from far and near and the best part about us is a portion of all sales go to local organizations such as the Olean Food Pantry” Christie finished proudly.

Make plans to stop by this Saturday from 11:00am-4:00pm, take a look at all the awesome items, have some snacks and experience the magic of fall with a fantastic local business. You’ll thank yourself later. For more information on the shop itself or to keep up to date with events, visit their Facebook or their website, 119uniquethings.com.

“Devote yourself to your community around you and devote yourself to creating something that gave you purpose and meaning” – Mitch Albom.