BEST ANTIQUE SHOP

BEST ANTIQUE SHOP:

It's Just Serendipity, 5630 Hohman Ave., Hammond, IN. 219.932.NEAT (6328). itsjustserendipity.com

The cozy, whimsical It's Just Serendipity shop in downtown Hammond has only been open for the past year and a half, but it's managed to create quite a following with its eclectic mix of inventory. Owner Karen Maravilla, who grew up in Hammond, opened the shop because she wanted to do her part to revitalize the city's downtown area. Besides standard antique fare, which includes furniture, clothing, jewelry, and other accessories, It's Just Serendipity sells handmade items, art, and specialty food items from local artists and producers. Maravilla also produces custom gift baskets for a variety of occasions.

Quote: "The fun thing is that you know it's going to be unique. No one has it. And you're also recycling something. You're giving something old a new life." - Karen Maravilla, Owner

TIE for SECOND PLACE

Tish's Antiques, 201 E Commercial Ave. (State Route 2), Lowell, IN. 219.690.1666. tishsantiques.com

The Vintage Rose, 316 E Lincolnway, La Porte, IN. 219.325.0850. thevinrose.com