Bijou Betties, Southtown antique shop, is closing

What's next: The antique shop will remain open through the end of March as the owner attempts to clear out inventory, per the email.

What they're saying: "High rent and a poor economy make it impossible to maintain a thriving retail presence in King William," the email reads.

Details: The eclectic space was always filled to the brim with funky glasses, strange art, vintage jewelry and so much more. A bonus backyard contained a bounty of architectural artifacts.

💭 Megan's thought bubble: I'm sad. Bijou Betties offered room after room of weird, unique tchotchkes that would add personality to anyone's home.

• The store reminded me of Grandma Aggie's bag in "Halloweentown" — it appears small on the outside, but it actually goes on forever and holds an endless amount of treasures.
• People love to browse antique stores even if they don't buy anything. I always wonder how that works out business-wise, but there's something to be said for having an uncommon place to window shop in a walkable part of town.