So many people have told me about the miracle that is Garden Ridge, but I’d never been to one. Until yesterday. Yes, one finally came back to Richmond (we heard a lot about the one that used to be out by the airport but it was gone by the time we moved here 4+ years ago). Anyway, here’s what I found on my maiden voyage to the big Costco-ish warehouse full o’ house, garden, and other random stuff.
My first reaction was “man this place is huge” followed by “Teresa Guidice would like it here” (NJ Housewives reference anyone?) since there are oversized urns and stone columns a plenty. Klassy. Let’s just say it’s one of those places that you have to dig through to find the goodies (hidden among many insane and unnecessary things).
But there were definitely a few diamonds in the rough. If by diamonds you mean metal herons that I fell in love with. I know my animal obsession is weird, but these guys actually seemed kind of sophisticated – if they were used for good instead of evil (read: located among a pretty backyard garden instead of among plastic gnomes and flamingos in the front).
And John did his best knight impression while saying that he can’t wait to get one of ’em for the new house. Just kidding. File this under “who the heck buys this stuff?”
Then I fell in love with this rug and those crazy knights were forgiven. It was natural fiber (jute I think) and incredibly inexpensive (I don’t remember the exact price but it was around $30 for a huge 5 x 7′ version). Uh, yes please. I especially loved how modern many of their rug options were since many other discount rugs are only available with traditional and ornate floral designs.
Oh and I liked this queen sized bedding (priced at just $39) that looked especially high end to me- kind of like something out of the Garnet Hill catalog.
And two yards of this pre-cut fabric (priced at just $5.99) seemed like a great deal, considering it looks a lot like some $35 a yard stuff that we’ve seen around.
$1.99 ceramic bird. No further explanation necessary.
Oh and they had tons of pillows. This is just the brown and blue aisle. Yeah, we’re talking tons.
But every “wow” moment I had was tempered with a “really?” moment which followed soon after. But that’s the fun of shopping at hit or miss places like this. Besides, it’s not every day that you lay eyes on a toilet paper stand like this. And yes, that’s a plunger on his head.
Oh and some of the art had potential, especially if it was hung in the right space. For example, we thought this cheerful cherry print would look sweet in a charming white cottage-esque kitchen with red accessories (like a red teapot and red apples in a bowl).
We even thought this crazy textile-ish painting could look Domino-magazine-chic if it was hung in the right room (maybe as a headboard in a soft aqua kids room with a bold orange comforter).
And check out this $24 mirror. Not bad right? Especially if you painted it a color for added pop (daffodil yellow or smoky gray would be cool).
And here we have a $79 bar stool that would look great in a kitchen with a gorgeous bar-height island. Especially if you reupholstered those seats with something a bit more “custom” looking, which would really elevate the classic x-back design.
And here’s the cutest thing in the store: our offspring! Just kidding. This is a picture of the square tray that John’s holding (Clara’s cute face is just an added bonus). We actually ended up buying that sleek branchy tray for just $12 because I love square trays (we have a green one that I move all over the house, so I love the fact that I now have a second one to put to work around here).
And so ends our window shopping spree at Garden Ridge. Do you guys have them in your neck of the woods? Do you know who’s buying those knights in shining armor? Anyone else have an obsession with the ever-elusive square tray? Or a penchant for metal waterbirds? Let’s talk.
Jenn W-M says
The Garden Ridge in Nashville closed many years ago. You could easily accessorize your home there. I was so bummed when they closed. They had the best selection of Christmas decorations, kitchen wares, and great rugs. They also had numerous garden pots and decor, patios, ect. Like other posts have stated, the sales were incredible, often 50% but more around 75% off.
Our Garden Ridge was just in a part of town that did not take off and they closed. Enjoy, I sure miss ours!
Meri says
We bought the “Knight” for a prom theme. The manager at Garden Ridge was so nice,he told us to use it and then bring it back!
Katy :) says
We have that cherry “People tend to seek happiness” print in our kitchen. I actually designed the kitchen around the print -mostly because since we purchased it from Ballard Design it is the most expensive thing in our kitchen ;)
I have always loved cherries and was super excited to find something more bing (cherry) and less maraschino (cherry). ;) Plus the statement is pretty dead on. love the blog. good luck with your move.
katie says
we’ve got a GR in memphis. LOVE IT. and those knights…well, there’s a home in the central gardens neighborhood (homes built in the early 1900’s)that houses one of those gigantic guys (in their basement). as the home has changed owners, the knight has stayed put. pretty cool! :)
Amy says
That cherry print is a Rodney White (prob. a reproduction) His art work is amazing! Check it out @ http://www.rodney-white.com/
Ballard Designs carries his stuff as does World Market. The print is huge – I have it hanging in my entryway. The cost at World Market where I bought mine was about $125 – so if it’s only $69 at this place – WOW! Ballard still sells it for $249…
SG says
A little off topic here . . . I was wondering about your take on using an outdoor rug inside for a dining room – specifically, I’m interested in your thoughts on offgassing and chemicals and stuff like that. There are very young kids in the mix.
Thanks!
YoungHouseLove says
Depends on the materials. If it’s natural fiber (like jute, sisal, etc) it’s actually great- and just as fantastic inside as out. If it’s made of polypropylene or other things spelled like that we wouldn’t do it. Waaaay too many stinky chemicals to be trapped inside. Although we have heard that placing stinky off-gasing objects outside in the hot sun speeds up the off-gassing progress so they can be less chemical-riddled over time using that method.
xo,
s
Catherine says
I had a middle school history teacher that had one of those knights in their classroom!
Amanda says
LOVE that tray, and for only $12! Wish we had a Garden Ridge in Colorado!
Jena says
Garden Ridge is a great place to stock up on generic items, like plain wine/champagne glasses (for a party); totally doable (and more green?) at about $3 a pop! You can also find great deals on lawn type furniture, like adirondack chairs (really expensive at stores like Pottery Barn) for a very reasonable price. Check back in the summer!
tasha roe says
the last time i was in Garden Ridge I swore I wouldnt go back – do disorganized and dated. Looks like they have at least entered the 21st century now.
Have you ever been to Old Time Pottery? they have fun stuff – great deals on dishes, fabric, baskets, decor & discounted linens.
Melissa e says
Okay.
If there’s a suggestion box anywhere around that place please-oh-please drop in a note that requests a flock of these stores be sent to Canada. I thought costco was cool (and it is) but that seems like the kinda place I could spend hours and hours in.
They ought to have a sign next to the knights with a running tally of how many get sold ’cause I really would like to know.
Jessica says
Thanks for bringing us along on your latest shopping adventure. You really have a great eye for design. In a store filled mostly with junk you managed to find inspiring options. And that’s why we’re all YHL groupies, counting down with you ’til the new house.
Our local Garden Ridge smelled so powerfully of cinnamon pine cones, (in October) my son and I practically ran through the front of the store with our noses and mouths covered! Those poor cashiers. Did Clara notice the intense scent?
YoungHouseLove says
We actually didn’t notice too much of a scent, thank goodness. But they were playing Christmas music (weeks before Thanksgiving no less) which kinda threw us off!
xo,
s
Sara K says
I am so jealous – we don’t have anything like this in Canada (and if we do, I’m sadly unaware). Aisles and aisles of pillows (organized by colours no less) = heaven.
I love your blog too much – it’s become an obsession (crazy stalker alert – jk). I just wish you’d offer contests open to Canadian residents… eh.
MelissaOklahoma says
We have a Garden Ridge in OKC, but I’ve never been. I’ve heard some great things can be found… perhaps I should check it out!
Did you guys buy anything?
YoungHouseLove says
Just the tray that we showed at the end. We’re resisting the urge to buy too much since we’re moving soon!
xo,
s
Christy says
We have two Garden Ridge stores nearby, and I used to be obsessed with them. I feel like they have gotten “cheaper” in the past year or two. Now they sell lots of furniture, luggage, scrubs and books. I really don’t understand. I thought it was more of a home and garden decor store. For years I have wondered to myself, “Who buys those knights?” I’m so glad you thought the same thing. The columns remind me of “My Big Fat Greek Wedding,” and I’m not really going for that look either. My favorite time to go to Garden Ridge is after the holidays. I score tons of ribbon for cheap every year! This year I will have red and silver ribbon on all my gifts because there were so many options after Christmas last year. Good luck decorating the new casa. I can’t wait to see what you have in store for us.
kathy says
I just looked and am so sad that there isn’t one in Washington State. *sad face* Someday…
Rhonda says
I used to live in Illinois and we had a Garden Ridge less than 1 mile from us…I loved shopping there (hit and miss for sure, but worth it). Now I live in po-dunk Montana and I so miss having the option of shopping in places like Garden Ridge.
Rachel says
I used to love Garden Ridge & I still try to stop in if I ever happen to pass one…but they’ve all gone downhill lately, probably due to the economy. On my last visit the store looked like they were carrying half of the variety, but had doubled up on some products in an attempt of keeping things looking full-ish. Of course, none of them ever ever ever had anywhere near the selection of yours.
You’re lucky living so close to DC. Everything is bigger & better. My first Ikea trip was to yours & when I went to the one in Atlanta, I was kinda sad about the difference in size. Better for my wallet, I suppose. :-)
Laura says
Hi there. I’m new to this so let me start out by saying that my friend Katie was the one who introduced me to ya’lls blog and I have been back to it nearly every single day since I first looked. I even went ahead and bookmarked it! Anyway, you have some fabulous ideas and being a fellow devoted thrifter myself, it’s nice to see your take on hand me downs as I am always looking for ways to spruce up my $2.00 finds!
I think the two of you are fantastic and love your work. I’m really excited and oh-so looking forward to what you have in store for your new house. Congratulations, btw!
Also, I loved the glass etching project so much that I went out the very next day and bought all the right supplies to do my own version and I did! I’ve linked your blog in my blog so people know where to go for the instructions if they so wish to (I was too lazy to give them or take pictures of me at work. Ha!)
Anyway, sorry for rambling just wanted you to know you’ve got another fan out there loving what you’re doing and enjoying all of the reading.
Ya’ll are great! Keep up the wonderful work :]
Tasmin says
Sort of off topic, but what carrier are you using for Clara in the knight picture? I’m trying to find a good one and was thinking about the Beco Butterfly 2? Looks similar
YoungHouseLove says
Hey Tasmin,
It’s the Ergo. Similar to the Beco but a bit cheaper. We love it (as does Clara)!
xo,
s
kyle says
Does it count as window shopping if you go in and buy something? I’m all for it :). That tray is gorgeous!!!!!
Claire @ Claire K Creations says
I’m so jealous! We don’t have anything like this in Australia except one lonely Costco :-(
Amanda @ Serenity Now says
I can’t believe GR came back to Richmond. I’m about an hour North of you guys but spent some shopping time in GR when we we used to visit my grandparents in Texas. By the time I grew up and decided I actually liked shopping, GR had closed!! SO excited to drive down and check the store out. :)
Nicole says
So jealous! We used to have one here in Nashville also. I still get compliments from a set of mirrors I bought there over 10 years ago. I hope this means there is hope for its return to Nashville!
Christine says
WOW That place looks awesome!!
Wish we had one in Northern VA..
Emily says
Hi, I was just flipping throught the Ballard Designs catalog and I saw that picture with the cheeries on it….for $249
http://www.ballarddesigns.com/seek-happiness-print/paintings-prints/vintage-prints/10474
Tonja Morris says
No fair! You make me fall in love with a place only to find they are only East Coast again. Why is Oregon so forsaken? I guess I will live vicariously through you!
Kevin M says
I’ve always thought their suits of armor were weird/interesting. Totally wouldn’t fit in our current home, but if we had a loft or something I might be tempted.
I really like the tray John is holding as well as the “Seek Happiness” cherry print. In fact, I may run up at lunch today and see if they have them here.
WendyMI says
That’s it… I’m moving south. *sigh*
My obsession is square picture frames. Can’t find them enough, so when I see them I snag them.
Love that rug and mirror! And I’d snap up the tray, too. =)
sue says
I’m already planning a trip to the closest Garden Ridge! Looks like too much fun!
WendyMI says
Oh my… perhaps I should have done a Store Locator BEFORE I posted. They just opened a store near me in Michigan. I’ll have to pop in this weekend.
*rubs hands together*
You enablers! lol
Snickrsnack Katie says
Oh yes, we have one here in Houston – well, actually Katy, which is right outside Houston. I LOVE IT! Believe it or not, I bought my couch and loveseat there – they were on sale for a grand total of $400 a couple of years ago. They are really nice looking and obviously inexpensive. Sure, they aren’t the most QUALITY as far as craftsmanship, but they are faux leather so they hold up REALLY well. I have bought a lot of pillows, rugs, garden accessories, paintings, trinkets – yes, it can be hit or miss, but it isn’t as weird as you guys seem to paint it in this article. I think it is a great place for people that are on a budget.
Snickrsnack Katie says
I DO have to agree with the one commenter who mentioned that it can be random – and that there are SCRUBS there. I was totally perplexed when I saw the mountain of scrubs right near where the barstools were. Couldn’t figure that one out. But honestly, I think it is a great store.
Mermanda says
Hi! Long-time reader, first-time commenter. My husband and I are actually planning to go to Garden Ridge in Pittsburgh this weekend to stock up on some holiday decorations. Two 4ft. prelit Christmas trees will look great flanking our entryway.
Your post has me excited to find some cute ceramic birds–but I am going to have to try to steer clear of the odd toilet paper holder man, though. ;)
Stacy says
I used to shop at the old GR by the airport before it closed. And yes, they do have a big selection of “what are they thinking?” items. But that is part of the fun in going. I haven’t been to the new location yet. I’m positive it has everything to do with the “crossing of the river” thing. I don’t know why so many people here, on both sides of the river, are like that but we are. It’s weird, I know. I do want to check it out, it will take a bit more planning on my part.
btw… I have a friend that has a knight in his dining room. It’s crazy!!!
Meredith K A says
I just hopped over to the Garden Ridge website’s Find a Store page, and observe that Texas has FAR more locations than any other state – I’d estimate at least 3x as many as the next highest. So perhaps that is the answer to many of your WTF moments? Texans have weird taste? I don’t know for sure, I’ve never been to Texas, but I have heard it’s like another world down there…
In other news, I would have liked some more pics of those trunks behind you in the square tray photo! Were there any classy ones? I didn’t love any of the ones I could see, but a darker, simpler trunk with a flat top…Or, if those were super cheap and reasonably sturdy, I could also see painting one of them a fun color!
The only PA location is in Pittsburgh, so I might have to check it out the next time I go to visit my cousin. Looks like a pretty cool place, though I’ve never heard of it until this post!
Since you added an item, do you now have to get rid of an additional item to meet your goal of 100? i.e. are you counting it by NET or by GROSS?
YoungHouseLove says
We’re definitely game to add on to our 100-thing-purge if we amass anything new during the process (like the tray). 101 items here we come! The good news is that I love square trays so much that two old rectangular trays are now getting the boot.
xo,
s
Christine says
Ah yes, Garden Ridge. I lived in Richmond when the one out near the airport was going strong and it was a great place to buy house basics – like pillows, rugs, bed linens, etc. Probably the best place around to buy baskets of all shapes and sizes, and ceramic plant pot/vase/decor thingys. It’s true that you had to root through a lot to get the good stuff for cheap, but I don’t remember there being things that were quite so “out there” – like the suits of armor. Huh?! Maybe people who are buying the McMansions out in far West End are buying those? Or as mentioned above, the Texas connection would explain a lot. I’m hoping a GR will pop up somewhere in NoVA (where I live now).
Nicole from Richmond! says
So glad GR has come back to Richmond! I am headed there during my lunch hour today (thanks for the reminder)! I am in need of some prints in my power room and newly painted living room : )
Elizabeth says
LOVE that tray…and I concur about the inherent appeal of a square tray. I have a clear acrylic one from CB2 on my ottoman.
We have a similar store here called Old Time Pottery…or as my friend’s father calls it…”the junk store”.
JoDi says
Oh wow, how do we NOT have one of these places within 3 hours of us!!!! Those prices are amazing, and you found some really great stuff.
We have a neighbor one street over that has a suit of armor on their entrance porch. It’s totally strange, and I’ve often wondered why neighborhood kids haven’t tried to take it yet as a prank. I can only guess that maybe it’s really heavy!!
Snickrsnack Katie says
Um, to Meredith KA, I am a Texan, and no, we don’t have poor taste more than any other state in this great country. I am originally from Pennsylvania, and let me tell you that I saw my fair share of gaudy lawn jockeys and garden gnomes and gazing balls in people’s yards enough to know that northerners can have a very tacky sense of style. I have come across some majorly tacky crap all over the globe – it isn’t just here.
That being said, yes – Garden Ridge has a mish-mash of items, some of which might be regarded as tacky. But to each his own, right?
Angela says
LOVE Garden Ridge! Do you guys have an Old Time Pottery in Richmond? There’s one outside of Charlotte where my sister lives and we always make a trip to both spots when we’re visiting! Decorating stores are awesome in the South, we don’t have anything like Garden Ridge or Old Time Pottery in NY!
YoungHouseLove says
Nope, sadly there’s no Old Time Pottery in Richmond, but we’d love to check one out the next time we’re near one on a road trip!
xo,
s
Elisa says
I have NEVER seen that many pillows in one place before. Never. I’m so jealous. I’m really picky about pillows for some reason but I only ever see weird ugly ones in the store.
Fernanda says
I am Jealous! :( we definitely don’t have one in NY/NJ area… I would love to see those pillows in person! I can’t control, I love pillows! We also need some cute art work for our new kitchen! By the way, I cant wait to finish with the details so I can send you a picture! (I hope you remember me :), I am the crazy reader that thought one of your sponsors had a discount for the tile I wanted, but it was actually another sponsor)
Any ways, we are redoing the bedroom now and are looking to drawers chest, do you have any suggestions where to find them? I am not crazy about the IKEA ones and don’t want to spend too much…
Thanks in advance!
And Clara is just tooooooooo cute!
YoungHouseLove says
Craigslist.org! We have found so many great deals there!
xo,
s
Maggie @ Black & White {Side by Side} says
I too went to my first GR last week in Charlotte!!! “Three Acres of Crafting Fun!”
Isn’t that exact cherry-happiness-print in the Ballard Designs catalog!? Deal!
Kelly says
I’m a little ashamed to admit it but I have a knight and we love him. I bought him several years ago thinking he would be a fun whimsical touch for the garden for my son who was obsessed with knights at the time. My husband thought I was nuts when I showed up with a knight laying down in the back of the car! We used to tuck him different spots in the yard and the kids loved going out and discovering him. He holds happy birthday signs, stands on the porch with a candle in his head at Halloween, serves as a scarecrow in the veggie garden, and stands by our barn holding cedar boughs for the holidays. He is rusted and falling apart now but the silly guy has served us well!
ashleyc says
Love the tray!! There are no Garden Ridges here in Az, but we have been to one several times when we lived in Tx.
Elizabeth says
Rock on with your knight, Kelly! Your kids will have lifelong memories of their parents’ sense of fun!
heather j. says
Hey guys,
so glad you reminded me…been wanting to check that place out!
(by the way, i heard that that is a Costco they’re building across the way from there!)
About the knights, I had this friend in college whose family was pretty well to-do. I remember going to her house for the first time, and she lived in this big, crazy, stone castle-type house. I made a joke to her about her mom’s feather-pillow collection (seriously, one of their sofas was covered in various for-real-feathers-covered pillows. She said that her mom pays $200 a piece for them…eeks…)
But, on my way to their upstairs bathroom, no kidding, there was a knight at the top of the stairway. Totally freaked me out. Never even finished climbing the stairs…
Amanda says
I LOVE Garden Ridge! You are right, you have to wade through some crazy stuff though. I bought all of my living room throw pillows at one in Birmingham, AL (8 pillows, 5 different patterns, all in a blue/brown/green color scheme) and they’ve been a hit so far. Best part was they were all under $15 and most were under $10!