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VERN and VERA Shop Brings New York Sophistication to Edgewater: Owner

By Benjamin Woodard | September 5, 2014 5:40am
 Sean Cowan (l.) and partner Eric Silverstrim moved to the neighborhood in 2007.
Sean Cowan (l.) and partner Eric Silverstrim moved to the neighborhood in 2007.
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DNAinfo/Benjamin Woodard

EDGEWATER — The owners of a new high-end, "fine vintage" antique shop said they are bringing a New York City sophistication to Edgewater.

Eric Silverstrim, 34, and partner Sean Cowan, 35, opened VERN + VERA at 5856 North Broadway a few months ago by appointment only. Now they're working on plans to hold regular business hours.

The couple live above the storefront with their two dogs, who are also the store's namesakes.

Silverstrim said he began managing and designing "high-end antique dealers" in New York City.

"It's in my blood," he said. "I grew up going to flea markets and antique stores."

The couple moved to the neighborhood in 2007, and finally decided to open a store and "do it ourselves," Silverstrim said.

"I think we're bringing something sophisticated," he said, and many of the pieces are "collectable in nature."

Among the store's merchandise, much of it made during the '60s and '70s, is a set of leather chairs around a solid marble table. The set — pieces can be sold separately — has a list price of $12,700.

"We're a little more high-end" than other neighborhood shops," Cowan said, adding that the store's style is best described as "fine vintage."

"Everything's got a little bit of polish," he said.

Smaller stuff, like table bowls, and other decorative items, goes for about $50.

VERN + VERA is open by appointment, and soon during regular business hours. On Sept. 13 and 14, the shop will be open from noon-7 p.m. for an open house.

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