Residing in Cary, North Carolina, Annamarie and her husband have resided in their home for 2 1/2 years. Inspired by Rachel Ashwell, founder of Shabby Chic, and her mother who's always collected antiques, Annamarie refers to her style as "1920's Glam meets vintage shabby cottage".

 

From her italian chair and french settee in her parlor, to her antique porcelain adorned with roses, "This style is in your blood", says Annamarie. "It comes from your heart. It is an addiction, a passion, and a love". With all the beauty spilling into each and every space, her very favorite room is the bedroom, where it is calming and relaxing. "I actually feel like I sleep in a bed and breakfast. So romantic, even my husband Ralph loves it! We love being surrounded in beautiful things."

 

Annamarie collects many things, and among those she favors wedding items, pictures of brides, veils, wedding dresses, glitzy items, rhinestones, and vintage jewelry. And she advises "Mix it up! Use antiques, vintage hats, dresses, slips, porcelain, and lots of lace. Combine vintage clothing and lace, and mix it up with strands of pearls, or fill pedestal dishes and place crystal chandeliers in every room." Annamarie enjoys treasure hunting at the Raleigh Fairgrounds flea market in North Carolina, as well as the local downtown shops and neighboring towns in Apex, Cary, Raleigh, and Fuquay Varina.

 

Annamarie sells on eBay, under the user name bocarose, and she also has two booths at an antique mall, K&B in neighboring town, Fuquay Varina. If you're in the area, please stop by and be sure to mention you spotted her feature at The Old Painted Cottage. You can also check out Annamarie's garden that was previously featured here.

(Photographs provided by homeowner, written feature by Jennifer Grey)