Catherine Martin knows true love.
Her eclectic store on Chattanooga’s North Shore was born out of love for distinctive one-of-a-kind, home-enhancing antiques and accessories.
“You can change your home drastically by changing out your decorative accessories,”says Martin, who has created an atmosphere for clients to find an array of beautiful items they can cherish for a lifetime. “I carefully select each piece and I am absolutely thrilled each time someone falls in love with that special treasure, whether it’s an exquisite trumeau or a handsome lamp.”
After graduating from the University of Mississippi, Martin owned a design shop on the coast of Mississippi and established import contacts at the port of New Orleans. Antiques, including 1920s pieces from the South of France, have been among her new store’s popular items in its ever-changing inventory, she says. “I like to feature items from all over Europe, mainly France. I absolutely love Country French style – it’s very pleasing and unique.”
Martin’s shop, with its thoughtfully chosen collection of treasures including novel gift items, fine furniture, lovely linens, lighting and carefully selected local artwork, was opened during the holiday season last year. “When I started toying with the idea of opening another shop, I called on old friends to find high-quality imports,” she adds. “I always try to buy the best quality at the best prices. My desire to create inspires me as I search for inventory. Accessories like pillows, throws, linens, magnolia wreaths and boxwood topiaries add instant style to a room,” she notes.
Available exclusively at the C. Martin Collection is the McGowan and McClain jewelry line, made by two cousins from Chattanooga. Some pieces are crafted using molds of organic natural products, like cuffs made from a mold of a banana peel and a necklace made with a wisteria pod, says Martin. Her store is also an excellent source for housewarming and hostess gifts including candles, decorative soaps and preserved floral arrangements.
Martin also helps her clients search for antiques and gift items. “That’s something we like to do,” she says. “We will help find that perfect piece they’ve been looking for, one they will love!”