Artistic dove sculpture titled 'Laughing Lady Antiques Dove,' adorned with intricate patterns and vintage-inspired elements, reflecting the nostalgic charm of Laughing Lady Antiques in Parksville, NY. The sculpture captures the essence of the store's unique and eclectic collection.

7. Laughing Ladies Antiques

Town: Mongaup Valley

Artists: Blake Hays, Ben Lebel

About: Laughing Lady Antiques in Mongaup Valley, New York, is a delightful treasure trove for antique enthusiasts and collectors. Located in a charming rural setting, this unique shop offers a diverse collection of vintage items, from furniture to rare collectibles. The store is also home to the “Laughing Lady Antiques dove,” a beautifully crafted piece of art that reflects the whimsical and eclectic spirit of the shop. Created by a local artist, this dove is part of the Dove Trail, symbolizing the town’s rich history and vibrant community.

Address: 1095 State Route 17B
Mongaup Valley, NY 12762

Directions
Close-up of the 'Laughing Lady Antiques Dove,' highlighting the detailed artwork that mirrors the vintage and whimsical character of Laughing Lady Antiques in Parksville, NY.

Location: Laughing Lady Antiques

Nestled in the serene landscape of Mongaup Valley, New York, Laughing Lady Antiques is a beloved destination for those with a passion for the past. The store is a true gem, offering an eclectic array of antiques, vintage collectibles, and one-of-a-kind treasures that transport visitors to a bygone era. With its welcoming atmosphere and thoughtfully curated selection, Laughing Lady Antiques invites shoppers to explore a world of history and nostalgia, where each item has its own unique story.

The shop is more than just a place to find antiques; it’s a community hub where locals and visitors alike gather to share their love of all things vintage. Whether you’re searching for a specific piece or simply browsing, Laughing Lady Antiques provides an experience that is both enriching and enjoyable.

Adding to its charm is the “Laughing Lady Antiques dove,” part of the Dove Trail public art project that celebrates the cultural and artistic heritage of the region. This dove, created by a local artist, embodies the playful and spirited nature of the shop, capturing the essence of what makes Laughing Lady Antiques so special. The dove serves as a visual representation of the shop’s connection to the community and its role in preserving the area’s rich history.

For more about this unique shop and its offerings, visit their Facebook page here

Artists: Blake Hays, Ben Lebel

Ben Lebel and Blake Hays. Their story started long before they ever met, and long before they were even born. Two families and their unique stories and passions would inevitably combine to become the beginning of “The Laughing Ladies’” story. Village Common is a dream three generations in the making, spanning over 40 years. They are continuing the Laughing Ladies family’s passion, rooted in bringing authentic, unique, and well-made products to the community. Beginning in 1968, and from where they got their name, the first Village Common opened its doors in Avenel, New Jersey. It was run by Grandma Bernadette, current owner Ben Lebel’s grandmother. In its first incarnation, Village Common was an antique store of carefully selected, fine pieces from all eras. Grandma Bernadette also had beautiful plants and flowers for sale on the front porch that always attracted passersby to stop in. In 1984, the Village Common moved to Stroudsburg, Pa., on the property of the Stroudsmoor Country Inn, and was reimagined into a country store by Susan Lebel, Bernadette’s daughter and Ben’s mother. Antiques were still available alongside candles, soaps, homemade canned goods, and unique gift ideas. Susan has since blossomed this once-country store into a thriving floral and decor studio. From their Southern roots, Billy Hays, current owner Blake Hays’ grandfather, opened his first country store in Pineville, Louisiana in 1960. It served as a vintage bodega; offering local produce and custom goods. Because of the construction of the new “American Highway”, Billy moved and opened his second store in 1978, this time offering mouthwatering barbecue and other country store favorites. Blake Hays and Benjamin Lebel bring to you a new installment of these family traditions blended together. Creating handmade, natural apothecary goods, kindled by their family history, Ben and Blake are continuing the legacy of the Village Common. Village Common is a dream coming true. Their relationship has brought their families and their traditions together.

  • Places to Stay
    • Happy Days Campground (454 Horseshoe Lake Rd. Swan Lake, NY 12783)
    • Horse & Hounds Bed and Breakfast (385 Hurd Rd. Bethel, NY 12720)
    • Bradstan Country Hotel (1561 NY-17B, White Lake, NY 12786)
  • Places to Eat
    • Hectors Inn (14 Dr. Duggan Road Bethel, NY 12720)
    • Catskill Distilling Company/ Dancing Cat Saloon (2037 State Rte. 17B Bethel, NY 12720)
    • Benji & Jakes (5 Horseshoe Lake Rd, Kauneonga Lake, NY 12749)
    • Big Kev’s (350 Royce Rd, Swan Lake, NY 12783)
    • The Local Table and Tap (3 Horseshoe Lake Rd, Kauneonga Lake, NY 12749)
    • Barrio Kitchen (1 Horseshoe Lake Rd, White Lake, NY 12786)
  • Places to Explore
    • Yasgur Road Productions (34 Yasgur Rd. Bethel, NY 12720)
    • Rosehaven Alpacas Boutique & Mill (2720 State Rte. 17B Bethel, NY 12720)
    • Stray Cat Gallery (2023 Rte. 17B Bethel, NY 12720)
    • Lake Superior State Park (342 Dr. Duggan Rd. Bethel, NY 12720)
    • The Museum at Bethel Woods (200 Hurd Rd. Bethel, NY 12720)
    • Rolling Stone Ranch (282 West Shore Rd. Bethel, NY 12720)
    • Bethel Woods Center for the Arts (200 Hurd Road, Bethel, NY 12720)

Photos by Paul Henshaw