Nestled in the heart of Main Street in Salmon, Idaho, The Cornerstone Gifts & Antiques is more than just a store—it’s a treasure trove of history, charm, and creativity. Every small town has that one special place that feels like a step back in time while still being beautifully curated for today’s world, and for Salmon, that place is Cornerstone.

At the heart of this beloved shop is Cyndi, the owner and operator whose vision has shaped The Cornerstone into the charming, eclectic space it is today. My first introduction to Cyndi’s world of antiques and gifts was years ago when she ran her shop from a cozy little yellow house. Walking through that space felt like walking into a piece of my own history. My grandmother, Donel, had a deep love for antiques—old treasures, intricate trinkets, and the kind of pieces that tell a story. She was a true maximalist at heart, finding beauty in the details and nostalgia in the worn edges of a well-loved item. That same feeling comes rushing back every time I step into The Cornerstone.

Cyndi has a gift, not just for curating unique and stylish pieces but for preserving their stories. She knows where every item comes from, the hands it has passed through, and the charm it brings to someone new. Whether it’s a vintage pin from a bygone era, a beautifully handcrafted butter dish, or the coziest flannel you didn’t know you needed, she has a way of making every find feel personal.

Beyond the antiques, The Cornerstone is a hub for local artisans and makers. Cyndi has opened her space to vendors who create everything from handcrafted signs to locally made skincare products. It’s this blend of old and new, history and creativity, that makes the shop so special. There’s something about knowing that when you shop at Cornerstone, you’re not just picking up a gift or a piece of decor—you’re supporting a network of small businesses and makers who pour their hearts into their work.

Cyndi expanded The Cornerstone beyond antiques and it is the place for unique lifestyle and houseware items. Whether you’re looking to refresh your kitchen with stylish, functional pieces or find the perfect accent for your living space, The Cornerstone now offers a carefully curated selection of housewares. From elegant dinnerware and cozy textiles to artisan-crafted kitchen essentials, every item is chosen with the same care and attention to detail that has always defined the store. These lifestyle additions make it easy to blend vintage charm with modern living, giving your home a personal touch that feels warm and inviting.

One of my favorite things about photographing The Cornerstone was capturing the way it feels to be inside. The warm lighting, the stacks of well-loved books, the displays of hand-selected items—it all tells a story. In a world that moves fast, places like this remind us to slow down, to appreciate craftsmanship, and to find joy in the little things. It’s a reminder of why small towns are special, why local businesses matter, and why places like The Cornerstone Gifts & Antiques deserve to be cherished.

So next time you find yourself on Main Street in Salmon, step inside. Whether you leave with a vintage find, a handmade treasure, a beautiful new piece for your home, or just a warm conversation with Cyndi, you’ll walk away with something meaningful. And in a place like this, that’s the best kind of gift of all.