The Vintage Lady

434 El Camino Real

Tustin, CA. 92780

The Experience

I stumbled upon one of Old Town Tustin’s sweetest treasures the other day by accident. Sitting in my car, messing with my GPS, I looked up and saw the most charming old bungalow (historically established in 1878!!!!!) across the street. Turns out, I had discovered The Vintage Lady! By the looks of the window displays I knew this was an opportunity that I could not pass up! And from my first step inside, it was clear my suspicions were correct!

Here I met Cathy, the store’s sweet owner. She was sitting by the door as I walked in. She welcomed me inside and gladly showed me around the store as if I were a guest in her home. And like any good hostess would, she made me feel comfortable, and offered me a cup of coffee. She began to tell me her story, and I was fascinated. She had been in business for 11 years! Her dream was born in Westminster,CA where she operated as The Vintage Rose next to the widely known shop; Heard’s Country Garden Nursery. It was during her years in business there where she gained inspiration from a dear friend ( I believe it was Mary Lou Heard herself) to someday open a garden themed shop. So here she is, years later, The Vintage Lady- A garden themed shop specializing in treasures old and new.

I was reveling in my every moment spent with Cathy as she led me around her shop, telling me it’s history. I was taken away by all the beautiful vignettes that decorated her store, each with a different theme. I especially loved the ornately detailed birdcages throughout, some antique, some new. Eclectic and magical is how I would describe the style and feel of The Vintage Lady.

I was furiously jotting down every detail I could as I listened to Cathy’s story. And just as I thought I couldn’t be in any more awe, I was! She saved the best for last on the tour she proudly hosted. She led me  to the rear of the shop and out the back door. And I entered a whimsy magical feeling garden, one that I imagine, fairies dance around in when you aren’t looking. It had that Great Expectations feel (read the book!) I was in heaven!

All in All

After seeing the garden, I was convinced that Cathy has a dream job. She hosts herb tastings here and teaches gardening classes. Specializing in the art of the miniature garden, she encourages her students to look around their backyards or garages in search of the perfect planter to start a garden in. Who know’s, maybe it’s an old wheelbarrow or birdbath you use!

Visit Cathy and take the tour of her sweet little shop like I did. Perhaps you’ll walk away with a new treasure or trinket for your garden or home, or maybe, like me, you’ll leave with an extra bounce in your step, feeling inspired and ready to make all of my dreams come true just like Cathy.

Pathway to Heaven!

Miniature Garden

One of a kind garden signs, handmade by Cathy!