When you wander into Diana Cooks’ Second Home Salon, 12910 Larchmere, you'll find yourself surrounded by one-of-a-kind home accents and fine furnishings that are looking for their “second home.” You'll also find yourself playing a role in Diana's personal campaign to reuse, repurpose, and refurbish the world's goods and help decrease our collective carbon footprint.

"In the store, I carry unique items that have been manufactured 20 or more years ago – my contribution to decreasing our landfill," Diana explained.  "A great fact to know – each person who reuses five things in the world can decrease their own carbon footprint by 64 percent."

“I also enjoy the idea of helping people acquire fine things at a reduced price,” Diana added. “When a young couple or new homeowner comes in and needs an accent piece, I hope to give them that special quality piece that can make a difference.”

Most items in her shop also come with a history.

"I love to share their stories," she said.

Diana also likes to see these stories continue. Her standing offer is: anything purchased in the shop can be traded in when you’re done with it, for the next piece in your collection.

Diana first discovered Larchmere while working at the Cleveland Skating Club.

“I always loved all the antiques and little shops – my waving friends,” she said with a smile. “I’d wave to them as I walked by. Larchmere just had a vibe I liked. I knew in my heart I’d be here one day – I just didn't know it would be as a merchant!”

She's recently taken her Larchmere involvement to a new level, as Co-President of the Larchmere Merchants Association with Lynne Alfred.

Said Diana: "We're very pleased to announce First Fridays on Larchmere, modeled after similar successful programs in Tremont and Ohio City. From May to October, merchants are coming together on the First Friday of the month to stay open later, offer specials and showcase all Larchmere has to offer."

Most restaurants will be open until midnight, shops until 9 p.m.

“Every venue participating will have some kind of deal," Diana said. "There’s a great energy on Larchmere. We invite everyone to come give it a try!”

Second Home Salon is open from 11 a.m. – 6 p.m., Weds.- Fri.; 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Saturdays; and, after Memorial Day, from 1 – 5 p.m. on Sundays. Or visit the shop anytime at http://www.secondhomesalon.biz

Story and photograph by Katie Montgomery, an active member of the Larchmere Community Association. She contributes a monthly column to the Larchemere Newsletter.