Editorials

Rare Bird Antique Mall Under New Ownership

21-Year-Old Antique Mall Gets A Fresh, New Look

The Rare Bird Antique Mall in Goodlettsville, Tenn., has new owners and they’re shakingthings up a bit. Rare Bird has enjoyed along list of devoted and celebrity clientele over its 21 year history, and is sure to enjoy many more. The new owners are bringing a fresh, new look and updating the mall which is opening the world of antiques to a whole new audience as well.

“Antiques are in my blood,” stated new owner, Lori Hanks. Hanks has a long history of interior decorating, staging homes and upcycling antiques. Her last professional role was as a consultant for small business owners. Hanks taught ecommerce best practices, SEO and social media skills to entrepreneurs.

Hanks and husband, Jody Hanks, a corporate attorney, purchased the Rare Bird in April from Rare Bird founders Jon & Joan Wright. The Wright’s were seeking to retire in Georgia to be with their daughter and grandchildren. “By combining my talents and Jody’s business acumen, we have great strengths for Rare Bird,” stated Hanks. The couple has certainly placed their mark on the store in just three short months. The store is more open and inviting. Vignettes have been staged to show customers how antiques can be incorporated into their décor at home.

The Hanks have created a new website and launched social media profiles on Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest. A blog is in the works and will be coming soon. Many of the dealers have been in the mall for the entire 21 years. Hanks is using her marketing and merchandising skills to help these vendors revitalize and stage their booths to appeal to the evolving antiques customer.

Customers and dealers alike are raving over the changes to the store. Laughing, Hanks stated, “I think we’ve been the talk of the town – my ears have been burning for sure.”

Rare Bird Antique Mall was founded in 1996, and the mall is an 11,000 sq. ft. space with 60 booths and 23 showcases. The dealers provide a little bit of everything antique, vintage and rare. www.rarebirdantiquemall.com