First antiques, second ceramics

There is more than vintage knick-knacks at First and Second Vintage in downtown Hampton.

In addition to the restored furniture and handcrafted décor, the business also serves as a ceramic workshop for the community.

Run by Jerre Grefe, this store has been part of Hampton’s specialty shops since November of 2017. Originally run by Grefe and two others, she now operates the entire shop on her own.

“It’s a lot of work, but it’s also a lot of love,” Grefe said.

The shop is full of all kinds of antiques and furniture for customers to browse at their leisure, but in the basement of her shop, Grefe has a ceramic studio that is open to the pubic during business hours to utilize. People are allowed to come in and paint ceramics or work on painting projects.

In the basement, guests are free to select a ceramic of their choosing, from gnomes to small animals to dolls, and paint it at the table. Once the object is painted, they can then bring it upstairs to the front counter for purchase.

Grefe also mentioned that the shop can host birthday parties or groups of all kinds that want the chance to paint and gather together. Guests are welcome to bring their own food and drink and make a party of the experience.

Along with running her shop, Grefe participates in estate sales and the downsizing of local houses. The upcoming week of the Franklin County Fair will see her next estate sale.

On days when her shop is not open, Grefe is out and about hunting for various items for the shop. She gets most of her finds from Des Moines.

“I like to find things that stimulate and interest the heart,” said Grefe.

Everyone is always welcome to stop by and take a look.

“It’s just a neat place to stop and poke around in,” said Grefe.