Windy Hill Creations

By Melissa McCance

Commonly known as the “decade of excess,” decorating styles in the 80s tended toward the opulent, spectacular, and elaborate. But, as is often the case, a counter movement occurred when people tired of the over-the-top style and decorating went in a new direction: shabby chic. This look was softer, subtler, casual, and comforting, and many peo-ple welcomed it into their homes. The style has maintained its popularity and shows no sign of fading.

Windy Hill Creations Market, owned by Michele Hinkley, is an oasis of relaxed beauty. Michele began as a floral designer in the mid-1970s. She opened the boutique in downtown Jackson in September 2017, but closed after a year when the building was sold. A new space became available in 2019, and Michele was ready to reopen her store. Windy Hill Creations has been at 217 N. Jackson St. since October 2019. The name came about because her family lived on a hill and when son Dan was small and playing outside on a windy day, he would say, “It’s a windy hill day.” Michele credits both Dan and daughter Lauren for helping make Windy Hill Creations Market a reality as they did a lot of carrying and rearranging when she was putting the shop together.

Michele prides herself on having “something for everyone,” and that isn’t an idle claim. Besides the shabby chic home décor, there are areas dedicated to chrome, gardens, men’s goods, and more. You will find unique pieces at Windy Hill Creations because along with items from regular retail sources, Michele has 15 consignors. “Some create the pieces entirely, some repurpose and repaint, and some shop for vintage items which they bring here to sell. It really adds a special quality to my inventory, and I am always interested in talking to potential new members of the WHC team!” Browsing the store is like a “walk through time” with discoveries around every corner. And, don’t think you have to spend a fortune to add a special touch to your home—there’s a wide range of prices which underscores that there’s something for everyone. Along with the home décor, Michele brings over 35 years of experience to her complete floral services for weddings and events utilizing both fresh and silk flowers.

An exciting new development for the store is opening the upstairs area which features Amish furniture. Custom-ers can order custom pieces or buy off the floor. Michele is also planning to utilize some of the upstairs as space for her popular classes. She has held classes to make baskets, centerpieces, wreaths, painted tiles, and felting and is hop-ing to offer them on a monthly basis. “I’m always looking for teachers,” says Michele, “so if someone is interested in teaching a workshop, please let me know.”

Make a point to visit Windy Hill Creations and spend some time exploring the wide variety of items. Chances are that you will find something that must go home with you! Shop hours are daily from 11 to 6 on Monday, Thursday, and Friday; 11 to 5 on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Saturday; and by chance on Sunday. Follow on Facebook for the latest news on classes, sales, and special events.

By Melissa McCance

Commonly known as the “decade of excess,” decorating styles in the 80s tended toward the opulent, spectacular, and elaborate. But, as is often the case, a counter movement occurred when people tired of the over-the-top style and decorating went in a new direction: shabby chic. This look was softer, subtler, casual, and comforting, and many peo-ple welcomed it into their homes. The style has maintained its popularity and shows no sign of fading.

Windy Hill Creations Market, owned by Michele Hinkley, is an oasis of relaxed beauty. Michele began as a floral designer in the mid-1970s. She opened the boutique in downtown Jackson in September 2017, but closed after a year when the building was sold. A new space became available in 2019, and Michele was ready to reopen her store. Windy Hill Creations has been at 217 N. Jackson St. since October 2019. The name came about because her family lived on a hill and when son Dan was small and playing outside on a windy day, he would say, “It’s a windy hill day.” Michele credits both Dan and daughter Lauren for helping make Windy Hill Creations Market a reality as they did a lot of carrying and rearranging when she was putting the shop together.

Michele prides herself on having “something for everyone,” and that isn’t an idle claim. Besides the shabby chic home décor, there are areas dedicated to chrome, gardens, men’s goods, and more. You will find unique pieces at Windy Hill Creations because along with items from regular retail sources, Michele has 15 consignors. “Some create the pieces entirely, some repurpose and repaint, and some shop for vintage items which they bring here to sell. It really adds a special quality to my inventory, and I am always interested in talking to potential new members of the WHC team!” Browsing the store is like a “walk through time” with discoveries around every corner. And, don’t think you have to spend a fortune to add a special touch to your home—there’s a wide range of prices which underscores that there’s something for everyone. Along with the home décor, Michele brings over 35 years of experience to her complete floral services for weddings and events utilizing both fresh and silk flowers.

An exciting new development for the store is opening the upstairs area which features Amish furniture. Custom-ers can order custom pieces or buy off the floor. Michele is also planning to utilize some of the upstairs as space for her popular classes. She has held classes to make baskets, centerpieces, wreaths, painted tiles, and felting and is hop-ing to offer them on a monthly basis. “I’m always looking for teachers,” says Michele, “so if someone is interested in teaching a workshop, please let me know.”

Make a point to visit Windy Hill Creations and spend some time exploring the wide variety of items. Chances are that you will find something that must go home with you! Shop hours are daily from 11 to 6 on Monday, Thursday, and Friday; 11 to 5 on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Saturday; and by chance on Sunday. Follow on Facebook for the latest news on classes, sales, and special events.