News Summary
The Briar Patch Antiques, a new antique store in Aiken, has opened its doors, honoring the legacy of its owner’s family. Located at 724 Richland Ave. West, the store offers a unique mix of antiques and contemporary crafts. Highlights include a selection of jewelry, old tools, and a special focus on jadeite milk glass. With vendor spaces fully rented, the store aims to engage both collectors and casual shoppers, enriching Aiken’s antique scene while paying tribute to the owner’s late mother and father.
Aiken—A new antique store, The Briar Patch Antiques, has officially opened its doors at 724 Richland Ave. West in Aiken. The store held its soft opening on June 2, 2025, under the ownership of Heather Braun, who honors her family’s legacy with this venture.
The Briar Patch is named after the antiques shop that was previously run by Heather’s late mother, Juanita Braun. The location carries special significance as it was once the optometry practice of Heather’s late father, Dr. Kenneth Braun. Following the retirement of the last doctor associated with the practice, Heather and her brother, Richi Braun, made the decision to transition the space into an antiques store.
The new store features a diverse array of antiques, many of which were also sold in Juanita Braun’s original store. Customers can explore a variety of offerings, including jewelry, old tools, and equestrian items. A notable highlight is Heather Braun’s fondness for milk glass, particularly the green variant known as jadeite.
In addition to the antiques, The Briar Patch aims to attract a wide customer base by offering contemporary arts and crafts. Shoppers can look forward to a selection of wreaths and candles, along with the traditional antiques that are sure to appeal to collectors and casual shoppers alike. At this time, the vendor spaces within the store are fully rented, and a waiting list is currently being established for future vendors.
The business hours for The Briar Patch Antiques are designed for convenience: open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Sundays. The enthusiastic vendor community includes individuals like Mimi Shackelford, who actively contributes to the arrangement of merchandise within the shop, ensuring a fresh and engaging shopping experience for visitors.
Aiken has a rich history in the antique trade, with various shops and boutiques appealing to both locals and tourists. The opening of The Briar Patch adds another option for those in search of unique, vintage items and is a continuation of the Braun family legacy in the community.
The Briar Patch Antiques not only celebrates the past with its inventory but also seeks to create a welcoming space for contemporary artisans and crafters, reflecting Aiken’s blend of tradition and modern creativity. As the community continues to thrive, businesses like The Briar Patch are pivotal in providing residents and visitors alike with a connection to the rich history of the region.
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Additional Resources
- Post and Courier: The Briar Patch Antiques
- Wikipedia: Aiken, South Carolina
- Post and Courier: Aiken’s Historic District
- Google Search: Aiken antiques
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Antique
