On Sept. 3, Second Bloom Antiques opened its doors in Monmouth Junction, N.J., welcoming more than 150 people during its opening day events. Second Bloom is more than an antiques store. It is a part of a growing shift toward destination shopping. Places that offer not only things to buy, but an experience worth spending time in. Located inside the historical barn at Carrefour Gardens, 981 Georges Road in Monmouth Junction, Second Bloom sits within a nursery filled with gardens, waterfalls and winding spaces to explore. Visitors can stroll the tranquil grounds, stop for a game of outdoor chess, browse antiques and collectibles, discover the bookshop nook, shop at the farmers market, view work by local artists, take an art class, or wander the variety of unique plants and seasonal offerings. The space also hosts events, lectures and classes, as well as food trucks. Its a place to wander. To discover something old, something growing, something handmade, something unexpected, said Maureen Bodnar. Joe and Maureen Bodnar of Bodnars Auction are a part of this vision. Were still growing into what Second Bloom will become, but the idea has always been simple, create a place that feels intentional, interesting and a little different every time you visit. South Brunswick is full of history, and this vision for Second Bloom is a community-based business that can have a positive impact on the residents. Its connection with Carrefour Gardens began simply. Every year the Bodnars would visit the nursery for seasonal outdoor plants. At checkout customers would enter the barn that operated as a gift shop many years ago. After the owner of Crossroads Nursery passed about five years ago, the inside of the barn had been in transition. The Bodnars eventually approached the new owner, Joe Polito, and after many conversations and brainstorming together, they began a collaboration. Thus, Second Bloom began to grow. They are still planting seeds, and new things are happening every week. New ideas, displays and events are being added. Bodnars Auction recently hosted the first appraisal days that drew a large gathering of local residents. Small local businesses became part of the experience providing refreshments from Pierres Bakery, Terhune Orchards, and Pink Little Cake. The store is filled with antiques, collectibles, jewelry, toys, unique finds and hidden treasures picked from local estates and auctions. Seasonal displays and items bring another layer to the experience with vintage and crafted Halloween collectibles currently filling the shop. Christmas will follow in the same spirit, blending nostalgia, history and tradition. Plans are underway for an interactive Christmas display visitors can walk through and explore the changing sights. October continues with a full calendar of events. Upcoming events include a pumpkin carving contest; a writers and book club organizers meetup; a wear the art event; a live heat pressing session; a dot painting mini-workshop with Eva; an antique appraisal day sponsored by Bodnars Auction; twilight in the garden, an unofficial Twilight-inspired evening celebrating the books and films; and disco dance night at the garden. Full event details are at www.secondbloomantiques.com.