New Ownership Springs Forward

story by ROBIN TODD     photos by CHARLOTTE BERKELEY-STANGE

Since September 1999, just over the downtown bridge, you will find the Collectors Antique Mall. Twenty years ago, Jane Tarrance and her husband purchased the beloved antique mall. Initially set up in Port Royal, it has now found its home on Lady’s Island. The purchase was her husband’s idea. Jane explains that she was a teacher’s assistant at the time when he said, “Let’s do it!” She didn’t object and had no regrets. It has brought so much joy not only to her own family but also to the community at large. Forming a special bond between dealers and the opportunity for new friendships with antique travelers, the mall has undoubtedly been an idea that was a gift to many and keeps giving.

After two decades of having the opportunity to meet with new dealers, local shoppers, the traveling families of brand new marine graduates, tourists, and, of course, antique lovers from all over the map, she is hanging her hat and will pass the torch to three new owners. Jane is very excited about the change of ownership, as change can stir things up a bit in all the best ways. Jane will still be here locally and will maintain a booth. She will continue to deal antiques herself, as it is something that has brought her joy over the years, and she has no intention of stopping. “It will be a very different change of perspective, to be able to just come in to help as needed, and to maintain just my booth,” Jane explains, “to come and go while still maintaining the relationships and tight-knit community the mall has become.”

Jane loves the family that the antique mall dealers have become over time. Change can be a good thing, she explains. She wants to share with the community that she does not expect any significant changes with the turnover. Some things may change internally; however, the antique mall will still be the same and operate as usual. Jane talks about how change is sometimes needed to bring forth new ideas and, of course, freshen things up.

Collectors Antique Mall, located on Sea Island Parkway, consists of multiple spaces rented by many dealers. Most are local to Beaufort and its surrounding sea islands, as well as from Hilton Head and even a couple of dealers from as far as Atlanta. If you want the chance to become an antique dealer here at the shop, you better hurry up and get in line! There are currently no open slots, but they do maintain a waiting list that they do utilize. Some of the dealers have been with her since the very beginning in 1999 and still continue to bring new items for the public to shop and view.

Some dealers have multiple booths, while some booths have multiple dealers. Jane does not foresee this changing much; however, consignment will most likely end as part of the setup here at the mall. If one does not know the difference, consignment is when the shop owner sells on your behalf, and you receive a percentage of the sale price only after the items have sold.

This antique mall is also a stop on the antique trail. This sweet space has become a staple in the community for many. Whether it be a routine weekend stop or a place to meander and find treasures on a lousy beach day, there is always plenty to see here at the Collectors Antique Mall. You can find a vast array of items while perusing the numerous booths. You will see a variety of glassware, china, furniture, artwork, toys, tools, collectibles, and random knickknacks you will not find anywhere else.

Jane explains that she isn’t leaving because she doesn’t like it anymore. “It’s time for the next season of life. Time to enjoy a new phase, while I still can!” She describes how she plans to do a bit of traveling but mainly focus on the important things, such as much needed quality time with her family and being present to enjoy the mall from a new perspective.

The new owners are dealers themselves and are no stranger to the space. Carlo Haigler, Jeanie Pickel, and Sheila Krill will be taking the reigns as Jane steps down to pursue retirement. Jane is excited to keep the “Women in Business” movement going strong!! Her current dealers have such sweet things to say about Jane Tarrance, and she will be missed, however, not far! This town can anticipate nothing less from the Collectors Antique Mall than what they have come to know and love over the past 20 years.