Living in Seminole Heights since 1992 and doing business here since 2009, Debra Vallejo does plenty to demonstrate her commitment to the neighborhood.
Still, in October she and her husband and business partner David Vallejo moved their from 4707 N. Nebraska Ave. to 4709 N. Florida Ave. After just three months, the Vallejos are in the process of doubling their square footage from 1,300 to 2,600. Debra said the build out should be complete by Jan. 1, creating booth space for seven to 10 new vendors.
D&D Antiques and More
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4709 N Florida Ave.
813-625-3703
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Owners: Debra and David Vallejo
Neighborly synergy: D&D is right next door to . "But because of that antique store," said Debra, "I've noticed an increase in foot traffic. You would think that it's competition, but it's not. Yes, we're both selling furniture, but style-wise they might be different eras." While both stores sell antiques from several eras, Seminole Heights Antiques and Home Decor features more mid century modern stock. "Mid-century modern is very popular right now," said Debra. "I might sell some lamps, but it's just not my niche."
Old ambiance track record: Vallejo used to co-own House of Two Sisters tea room which, in its final location, was housed in a restored early 1900s casita in Ybor City. Vallejo and her sister, Diane Reynolds, sold the business in 2006, which is now the Tea Rose Cottage.
Vallejo's rule of thumb: "Things needn't be matchy-matchy in a room. But they should look like they know each other."
Thus, the trend she sees: "The shift is coming from 30-somethings that are setting up their homes. That age group is good at knowing that not everything has to match."
Practicing what she preaches: For her own home decor, Vallejo follows her own dictum about avoiding homogeny. Her dining room table, for example, is a modern glass top but with antique wood shield back chairs.
Extra service: David Vallejo also does furniture painting and repair, and Debra offers real estate home staging services.
Hours: Tuesday through Friday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sunday noon to 4 p.m.