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Good to Know: Our Guide to Antique Shopping

Designing with vintage accessories and furnishings adds so much history and often tells a story that new home decor cannot. For today's Good To Know, we enlisted the help of our stylist and vintage lover, Marcie Busath, to share a few of her secrets for shopping vintage or antiques for your home.

It’s hard to know what is of actual value, but when you see something that speaks to you, it’s probably doing so for a good reason. I love pieces that show their life and history. Patina tells a story - scratches and dents aren’t always a bad thing, they often make a piece more interesting than it would be without. That said, there are also things that look interesting, but are literally falling apart, that might be a red flag that there is something wrong with it. Furniture can usually be fixed or rebuilt, but make sure it is possible before you make the investment and that the investment is worth it to you. No one but you can make that call. Upholstered pieces are worth inspecting very closely - there are occasionally issues with mold, infestation, etc.

The environmental upside to shopping vintage is a definite consideration. We love when our clients are open to bringing these pieces into their homes not only for the character and history they provide, but the fact that something is getting a second life and creating less waste can’t be undersold. We have a current client who is intent on buying as few new things as possible, understanding the importance of being environmentally responsible. We couldn’t agree more.

Antique Shopping tips from Marice

Tip #1: If you have specific things you are shopping for, make a list before you go so you know what you need. There are so many fun finds, that it’s easy to get distracted and lose sight of your goal.

Tip #2: Know your client. If you are shopping for a client, have a strong sense of what they like, have them on the ready to approve items or be willing to absorb the items into your inventory. Most antique and thrift stores don’t accept returns.

Tip #3: Take your time. Set aside a good amount of time to wander. Many antique and vintage shops are a decent size and have many rooms to sift through. Don’t rush yourself, so you can find the right things.

Tip #4: Be willing to dig a little. The best finds are often hidden behind or underneath other treasures. This tip goes hand in hand with with taking your time.

A few of our favorite finds

My favorite vintage shops in Salt Lake City

My favorite vintage shops online


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