"We really want to honor her legacy," Blanchet said. "She was such a respected and well-loved member of this community."
Gary Stevens and his wife, Michelle, have been in the antique business for about five years. He previously owned I Remember That, an antique store on Main Street. Blanchet is owner and operator of Stanford Manor Guesthouse on Lancaster Street.
It almost seems Forest Hill Antiques could pass as a bed and breakfast. Each room is filled with merchandise, and nothing is off limits to the customer. A dining room is decorated with an Amish table, and completely furnished with antique items that may be expected in someone's dining room.
A music room is filled with unique sitting chairs, lounges and a 1900 Berger Grand Piano. The kitchen has an antique dishwasher, dishes, pots, pans and cabinetry. The upstairs has bedrooms furnished with antique bed frames, vanities, rare fainting couches, women's vintage clothing, jewelry and hats. A children's room also is upstairs filled with old toys still in good condition.
Sights and smells seem cozy and familiar
The sights and even the smells of the inside of the old estate seem cozy and familiar.
"That's what we wanted - smells triggering memories," Gary Stevens said.
The owners of the shop hope to make more memories if their ideas for the future fly. Gary Stevens and Blanchet have plans to hold weddings and afternoon teas. They plan to do some work around the outside of the shop this spring.
In addition to selling antiques, the Stevens and Blanchet will assist customers with heirloom research, fulfill antique requests, and design services for homes and businesses.
"When they visit, they're not only visiting an antique shop, but a historic 1840s home," Gary Stevens said.
Forest Hill Antiques is located at 55 Hubble Road. Hours of operation are 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Wednesday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and 1-6 p.m. Sunday. Call Gary Stevens at (606) 669-2671 or Blanchet at (606) 365-2929 for more information.
