Based in Ripley, Tennessee, Tony and Kitty Ables have been making the trip to Round Top for 31 years, and now consider Market Hill their home away from home.
“The people here are the best,” Kitty says, “Nowhere else we go has such friendly, loyal people.”
Even after three decades in the business, they still enjoy the thrill of it all.
“We love the hunt!” she says. “Our clients are usually after that statement piece, so they always come by to see what we have found special for the market. We strive to bring the most unique items to Market Hill.”
As for what we can expect at the fall show, she says, “The car neon was a once-in-a-lifetime find! And, for us, personally, a bucket list item to own. It was found in northern Alabama, and had been at several locations as the dealer moved but in a private collection for over 25 years. It will be a privilege to help it find its new home.”
“Our clients are usually after that statement piece, so they always come by to see what we have found special for the market. We strive to bring the most unique items to Market Hill.”
Next to Ables is Props Antiques, also based in Tennessee.
“Our style is best described as ‘general store meets Vegas,’” says owner Klint Griffin. “It’s an eclectic aesthetic that drives us. A mix of original untouched pieces and electronic eye candy.” For Klint and wife, Cindy, “It’s a real family affair as we are bringing up a new generation of antiques lover – our son. He’s grown up around all of our dealer friends and family. This is one of the reasons we especially love the great, safe set-up at Market Hill.”
When asked what pieces he’s most excited about bringing to the fall show, he says, “Our passion lately has been with old neons, general store pieces and original surface furniture. This time around, we are bringing some amazing neons that pertain to oil and gas, as well as bar decor. We will have great store counters, tables and seating that fit our eclectic aesthetic perfectly.”
“Many of our clients have become good friends. By understanding what makes them tick, it helps us get a hold of their design styles, wants and needs.”
When it comes to making these selections for the show, he says, “For 15 years, we have been following our instincts and finding truly wonderful pieces.” It also comes down to really getting to know his customers, he says.
“The majority of our customers are collectors and design industry professionals. Many of our clients have become good friends. By understanding what makes them tick, it helps us get a hold of their design styles, wants and needs. It’s a great feeling to rescue pieces that some might regard as trash and reunite those pieces with our customers who treat them like the treasures they are.”