Meet Jana Holland of Collected Treasures

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jana Holland.

Jana, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
The fact I have loved old things since I was a small girl has led me to this point in my life. Throughout the years my passion grew, as did my collection of all things vintage, old, and with a past. I worked in the corporate world for years, and was even a flight attendant for American Airlines for 20 years as well. Working as a flight attendant, I found I had time to spare and opened my first antique booth, selling some of my treasures. That business grew over the years, expanding to online selling as well as individual shows. When I retired from American, I opened by brick and mortar business downtown Arlington, wanting to be part of the redevelopment of the area.

I start my 15th year in September of this year. My building not only houses my antique Shoppe, but also my line of creations under the Nettie Jane Designs label. There is also a portion of the building where my daughter and I have a business which holds little girl’s princess dress up parties and special events. This portion of the business is called “A Moment in Time”.

Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Oh goodness, no. It should be of special note that one year after I opened my brick and mortar, and six months before I purchased the building the stock market hit rock bottom affecting the economy like we have never seen before in my lifetime. People quit buying, and even quit coming. I was in with “both feet” and had to figure a way to survive……….and I did.

The challenge now is to compete with online shopping and stay current.

Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Collected Treasures – what should we know?
My passion….my love. My Shoppe is full of one of a kind items that have been upcycled and reborn with design elements which makes them unique. I tell people it is definitely NOT your Grandmother’s antique store, as I work very diligently to make people want the things again that they once tossed aside.

Whether with paint, fabric, or just a creative eye……things are repurposed for today’s market. That is not to say I do not have traditional antiques and collectibles, because I do, but I find that the majority of my clientele come into my Shoppe for the designs elements, the creative process, and for the ideas……I tell everyone the memories I provide are free. It is like stepping back in time as I stay true to my love of antiques and vintage items, refusing to sell anything manufactured in China or any reproductions.

People know if they shop with me it is the “real deal” as I have not sold out to the mass production on new things that look old…. just can’t do it.

I am particularly known for my line of creative designs sold under the Nettie Jane Designs label. The line includes unique altered couture clothing, handbags, home décor, jewelry, and furniture items as well. All are one of a kind and made of vintage and antique materials. I have been featured many times in the national magazine Somerset Publications for several of my creations, and it’s always exciting to see them in print.

I am most proud of the fact I stay true to what I love, and honestly just love to see it loved again by others.

I am most proud of the fact I have chosen to be a part of Downtown Arlington and it’s redevelopment.

I am most proud of the fact I did not give up when it was so incredibly difficult.

I am most proud of the fact I have been able to invent myself and my Shoppe, and then do it again as needed.

I am most proud of the fact I am part of an effort to save the past.

The one thing that sets me a part of others is the fact that I am willing to work harder than most to do what I love.

Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
Tenacity, incredible vision, undying passion and a creative mind.

Contact Info:

• Address: 406 West Main Street, Arlington, Texas 76010
• Website: http://collectedtreasures.com
• Phone: 817-275-7444
• Email: Jholland@collectedtreasures.com
• Instagram: collectedtreasures
• Facebook: http://facebook.com/collectedtreasures
• Other: http://facebook.com/Mainstreetantiquejunkfest

Getting in touch: VoyageDallas is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.