by Aaron W. Hughey

Although known as the “Antique Capital of Western Kentucky,” the community of Hazel actually has somewhat of a national reputation when it comes to antique malls and shops.

One of the better known establishments in Hazel is Miss Bradies, which specializes in everything from kitchen items to various Christmas items.

“Miss Bradies is about the only shop in Hazel that is located in an actual house,” McKinley explains. “Our shop is the home of Miss Bradie White, a long-time resident of Hazel. That gives our store somewhat of a different feel than many of the other antique outlets.”

“Typically, most of the antique shops in Hazel draw the majority of their business from tourists and collectors,” McKinley continues. “Our business is about half from visitors and half from local residents.”

“We’re a little bit different from the other antique stores in this area,” explains Jo McKinley, owner of Miss Bradies. “We’re not strictly an antique mall; we also sell new items.”

“Among our most popular items are Christopher Radko Christmas ornaments,” McKinley explains. “People come from all over to buy Radko ornaments at Miss Bradies. We have a better selection than anyone else I know.”

“We participate in various Radko events,” McKinley adds. “This really is one of the things that we are known for.”

It is not surprising that Miss Bradies has a huge following for its Radko ornaments. They sell Christmas merchandise all year round. In addition to the Radko ornaments, they also feature candles, serving dishes and a wide selection of Christmas decorations.

“We have even gotten into a little bit of the gourmet food business,” McKinley explains. “We sell a lot of kitchen items, cookbooks, and new enamelware.”

Along with the other antique malls and shops in Hazel, Miss Bradies participates in a number of special events throughout the year. For example, every year on the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend, Hazel sponsors an antique bike show.

“The antique bike show is really a big event,” McKinley observes. “It draws antique bike enthusiasts from all over the country.”

“We also have an annual 4th of July sale, along with a Halloween sale the first Saturday of October,” McKinley continues.

“One of our biggest events is the annual Christmas sale which is held on the first Saturday in December. That always draws a lot of interest.”

Although originally from Louisville, Kentucky, McKinley has lived in Hazel for about ten years. Her ties to the community are strong; her husband is also the mayor of Hazel.

“We have three full-time and three part-time employees,” McKinley notes. “Everyone who works here loves what they do and I think that shows.”

It is obvious that she enjoys working at Miss Bradies and that she has a special place in her heart for the community.

“I really love Hazel,” McKinley concludes. “Working at Miss Bradies, I get to meet a lot of very interesting people from all over the country. Every day is an adventure.”