Like “Fixer Upper”? Meet Indian Trail’s shabby chic row

The U.S. 74 Business Village in Indian Trail — really no more than a tiny strip mall — is a mecca for fans of shabby chic furnishings and accessories. It’s home to four shops that specialize in the genre: Southern Marketplace, Well Worth It, Farmhouse Market and Peddler’s Marketplace.

While there are slight differences among shops, they all follow essentially the same format, renting out booths to local artisans who refurbish furniture, make accessories or collect antiques or quirky found objects.

Seriously, if Joanna Gaines was remaking a home in Charlotte, I guarantee she couldn’t resist these places. Plus, they’re by and large affordable, giving you the look you crave at a price that won’t bust your budget.

Let’s explore.

Southern Marketplace

This might be the granddaddy of shabby chic stores in the Charlotte area. Store managers are very social media savvy — and very responsive. They’re constantly updating their inventory with pictures on Facebook, and they’ll put a one-hour hold on an item you like so you can come check it out or hold it so you can pay by phone and pick up later.

Seriously, look how pretty this entrance is.

The Farmhouse Market

You’re greeted in true farmhouse style before you even enter this shop with beautiful barn-style doors, rocking chairs and rustic crates. You’ll find the usual mixture of rustic furniture, as well as farmhouse paints if you’re into remaking your own project. Simply Southern T-shirts also are in stock.

If that’s not enough, head to the back wall for these awesome rustic metal signs.

Well Worth It

The new kid on the block, Well Worth It doesn’t disappoint. They were getting ready to deliver a gorgeous 7-foot trestle table when I visited, and it’s not uncommon for these shops to offer custom made new tables that come in farmhouse styles.

There’s also a collection of used books in the back in addition to painted furniture, décor and accessories.

Peddler’s Marketplace

Peddler’s has a cool vibe that helps it stick out from the crowd. There’s even a little buggy out front that pays homage to its logo. If Joanna visited here, I think she’d gravitate to the whimsical accessories and cool old school touches, including the glass tops of vintage gumball machines and metal barnyard animals.

Bonus: The Bees Knees

This happy vintage store in a yellow house is just a couple of miles from the 74 Business Village. You won’t find as much painted furniture, but you will find really unique items from chandeliers and pottery to yard décor and rustic shelves.