Antiques & More features variety of dealers

A new shopping destination has opened on the south side of town.

Antiques & More officially opened its doors on East Pine Log Road last week and has discovered that the community seems excited about the new shop.

Sandy and Jim Cassada and Barbara Ring are partners in the business which features nearly 40 dealers under one roof. The store carries a wide variety of items that are antiques, gently used or brand new.

The trio decided that, despite rough economic times, now was the perfect time to open. They are no strangers to the business - the Cassadas own and operate an antique mall called Ridge Antiques & Dry Goods on Main Street in Ridge Spring, and Ring formerly owned Twisted Sisters on Richland Avenue.

"We hoped Aiken would support it," Sandy Cassada said. "In this economy, this is more economically friendly, and we offer reasonable prices."

"We have a bit of everything from A to Z," said Ring. "It is a wonderful eclectic mix. The dealers have all set up great booths and so far the people who have come in have been impressed with us."

The shop contains custom-made jewelry, primitives, French, country, Victorian and shabby chic styles.

"It's not just antiques; it's more," said Cassada.

The store will hold an official grand opening event in May.

Antiques & More is open Monday through Saturday from 10:30 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. and Sunday from 1 until 5:30 p.m.

The store is located on East Pine Log Road near Powderhouse Road.

For more information, call 644-1060.

Contact Rachel Johnson at rjohnson@aikenstandard.com.