My latest vintage finds are a reflection of my love for the unique and different. I have loved antiques since I was a young girl. And true nerd confession, I love watching Antiques Road Show. I love the history behind the pieces people bring in for appraisal, and how they acquired them. So when I get an opportunity to look for a few treasures of my own, I get a little giddy. It’s been a beat since I’ve touched on decor finds.
There are a few local places I love to look for antiques and vintage pieces. When budget and time allow, my very favorite is Architectural Artifacts in downtown Toledo. It’s chock full of true antiques over 100 years old and reclaimed items, everything from stained glass windows to paintings to old chandeliers and doorknobs. When I only have the budget and time for a quick fix, I head to The House Market in Maumee, where I recently found some amazing vintage finds that are perfect for our farmhouse.
My Vintage Dress Form Jewelry Tree
I bought my jewelry box at an art festival many years ago now. Although I love its craftsmanship, I don’t always like to plow my way through its contents to find certain pieces when I’m trying to get ready and out the door. So, when I spied this vintage dress form at The House Market, it was the perfect solution for displaying my go-to jewelry pieces in a fun way. I also love the color, which looks great in our master bedroom.
Vintage End Tables
I am a true nature lover, so when I saw this end table, I fell hard. And when I saw they had another one that matched, it was meant to be because I really wanted two. I love the bird drawer pulls and their cheery, but not too bright, green color. I also like the fact that the entire piece is not painted flat white, a popular farmhouse look. The wood grain shows through on the top and the graceful legs are nicely distressed, so it has a lot of visual interest. I bought them for our living room, and I’m looking forward to finding the perfect lamps to place on them, too.
What’s So Great About Vintage Finds?
I love vintage finds for so many reasons. Maybe I’m a bit of an old soul but I love the nostalgia factor. When I shop in vintage and antique markets, part of the fun is people watching. There’s always something that sparks a memory for shoppers. That’s a testimony that what I may think of as not so special or interesting is just the thing for someone else.
Vintage and antique pieces are also more unique than the mass-produced and cheaply made pieces you can easily buy today. As a bonus, since they’re pre-owned, they’re also typically less expensive than if you bought something brand new. If there’s one decorating goal I have for our farmhouse, it’s to have as many things as possible be unique and personally meaningful, as long as it doesn’t break the bank. That’s one of the reasons I tend to choose classic lines and patterns over trends. Remember the farmhouse sign trend from a few years ago? They were everywhere and completely overdone. The sign trend may have run its course but classic farmhouse style will always have its place.
Tips For Buying Antiques and Vintage
Love Your Vintage Finds Before You Buy Them
Of course, there’s the thrill of the hunt. You never know what you’ll stumble upon. When I do actually shop for our farmhouse, I try to focus on finding items that are useful, unique, and that fit in the space we have. The last thing I want to do is spend money on something that won’t work. My hard and fast rule when it comes to vintage finds is that it has to pass the “I can love this for a long time in my home” test. It’s not enough to just like something. It has to pass the space, price, uniqueness, and ‘love it’ tests before it can come home.
Take Your Time Examining Vintage Finds
When I’m shopping for pieces for our home, I take the time to scrutinize them. Wobbly chair? Pass. Paint finish a little too chippy? Pass. Can I do this myself? Pass. If I also feel “iffy” about a piece, I also pass. It’s a true sign that I’ll likely regret a purchase if I have to think twice.
Don’t Be Afraid To Negotiate Prices
I don’t shop enough to be a ‘frequent flyer’ but it never hurts to ask if a little can come off the price. You have no idea how long a piece has been sitting unsold. The worst that can happen is for the seller to say no. Try it!
Do you love shopping for antiques and vintage pieces? I’d love to hear about the treasures you’ve found. Happy hunting!
Have you been to Tweaks on ‘Tiques on Secor Road? It is a treasure chest and the owner is so sweet and welcoming.
I have not, but I will definitely check it out. Thanks for the info, Karen!