Over the River and Through the Woods to Carter's Cottage

Last week, my husband gave me the day off. Yes, you heard me, an entire day without having to dress, bathe, feed or transport anyone but myself. Glorious. So what did I decide to do...hop in the car and drive out to the heart of downtown DeKalb, Ill. to visit my local Annie Sloan stockist, Carter's Cottage.

Previously, I had bought my paint from a local store that shipped to my home and at a store in Tennessee when I went to visit my parents, but from now on I am making the drive out to DeKalb to see Christie. 

I was lucky enough to get a chance to meet Christie Carter, the owner and designer of Carter's Cottage. She was gracious enough to spend some time talking with me about her journey to owning her own shop. This lady is amazing and so inspiring. Not to mention her painted pieces are amazing. She knows Annie Sloan personally, in fact, Annie called her directly to ask her to sell her Chalk Paint®. Can you imagine!? 

I spent about two hours there just taking in the store and drawing inspiration. I ended up leaving with a few cans of paint of course, but I also bought some sweet bird nests and blue eggs. Along, with carrying Annie Sloan Chalk Paint® and refinished furniture, Carter's sells wholesale goods, too. And Christie and her crew do a fabulous job selecting the perfect country chic items to complement their cottage decor. This place is a dream.

I think one of my favorite pieces was this graphite hutch. I have been dying to try this color out, but I am a little intimidated. This hutch makes me want to give it a try or maybe I will consider just buying this gorgeous piece.

Carter's Cottage also offers Annie Sloan painting workshops for those looking to dabble in Chalk Paint® or learn some new techniques. I am going to attend the next class in May and can't wait to share the experience with you.

DeKalb is also a great little destination town. While you are down there, you can visit all the other independent shops in the historic downtown area. There are antique, salvage, craft and clothing shops with some seriously cute stuff. And I love the idea of supporting independent business owners versus a big box store. As a tip, Christie shared that all the restaurants are open for lunch on Wednesdays if you want to make a day of it and of course they are open on the weekends.

So there is my magical day at Carter's Cottage. I left feeling inspired and can't wait for my next visit. Do you feel the same way about your local Annie Sloan stockist?