FRANKLIN—What started out as collecting a little of this and a little of that has grown from one business in Courtland to a second venue in Franklin. Even before the first shop, the hobby began at home, but that “outgrew the house,” said Angela Blythe.

She’s the proprietor of The Hope Chest Consignment and Boutique at Armory Drive, which opened Oct. 5 at 1200 A Armory Drive, right next to State Farm and Don Panchos. Blythe’s other shop, Old and New Consignments, is at 28252 Southampton Parkway in Courtland.

“We’re hoping to get people in this area of town,” Angela said about coming to Franklin.

Although The Hope Chest is not quite set up how she wants it to be – “but really close” – there’s already plenty to catch one’s eye. Furniture, clothes, Christmas ornaments, bric-a-brac and artwork are among the many items for sale.

Because both businesses are consignment-based, the people who bring in items to sell will split the profits with Angela.

Dealing in collectibles, consignments and antiques runs in the family. Helping her in operating the two shops are her husband, Delbert, daughter, Amber, and sons, Dillon and Winston.

Also, her parents Jimmy and the late Judy Brown were people whose businesses specialized in antiques and other items.

Up until 10 years ago when he retired to Florida, Jimmy owned and operated Dutch Market Antiques in the nearby Holland Borough of Suffolk.

Judy, who died 15 years ago, had Judy’s Antiques and Judy’s Junk, among other places, said Angela.

For herself, Angela does this simply because “I just like it.”

Hours of operation for both shops are 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday; noon to 6 p.m. Friday; 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday; and 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday.

For more information on either location, call 304-7159.