There is always something special waiting for you inside Victoria's Curio
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Go Green, Go Spring Antiquing
Spring is always highly anticipated here in the north of New York. The geese are flying back home, birds are making their nests, buds are popping out on the trees. You can feel the warming weather in the very air.
Spring is a great time to get out of the house and go antiquing. The destinations can be newly sprouted weekend garage sales or the wonderful array of antique stores and malls. I know this year will be a challenge for many who enjoy this past time. Gas prices have risen exponentially over the last 3 years and are predicted to go even higher by summer. Don't let this stop you from taking a day or even a weekend, packing a lunch and heading out to dig around for some treasures.
The first step in making this worth your time and gas is to grab your paper and circle the sales you wish to visit. If you are going to shops and malls, grab your phone book and make a list of where you'd like to go. Next, use Google Maps and type in your addresses to get an idea of where each location is from your home. My plan usually is to start with the furthest place from home and work my way back.
This not only helps in case your vehicle gets too full to make another stop, you are already on your way home. But, it will save time and gas ($$$) because you are not randomly driving around trying to find a place to shop.
Pack that picnic lunch with plenty of beverages; both hot and cold. Grab your directions and get out the door early. With Google mapping it will give you a rough estimate on how long it will take you to get from home to your first destination then each destination thereafter. If you plan your day well, you should be able to shop at least 5 places including drive time.
If you have never experienced a day of antiquing then let this be your guide on getting into a wonderful tradition. Saturday will be your best day to plan and don't forget any estate sales. These are wonderful places to pick up some great deals on pretty much anything. With estate sales, you'll most likely be able to get in the door fairly early, say 9:00a.m. Make this your first stop prior to hitting any antique stores which usually open at 10:00a.m.
If Saturday isn't a good day, there are estate sales and garage sales on Fridays. Plan wisely for the day and you can even get home before the kids are off the bus. Get out there and enjoy the changing of the season and find yourself some wonderful things. Whatever your into, there is a treasure trove just waiting for you at your destination(s).
The best part about this great past-time is that you are doing your part by recycling and keeping perfectly good clothing, furniture, bric-a-brac, etc. out of our landfills. Go Green and go antiquing!
Until the next time,
Vicki
Spring is a great time to get out of the house and go antiquing. The destinations can be newly sprouted weekend garage sales or the wonderful array of antique stores and malls. I know this year will be a challenge for many who enjoy this past time. Gas prices have risen exponentially over the last 3 years and are predicted to go even higher by summer. Don't let this stop you from taking a day or even a weekend, packing a lunch and heading out to dig around for some treasures.
The first step in making this worth your time and gas is to grab your paper and circle the sales you wish to visit. If you are going to shops and malls, grab your phone book and make a list of where you'd like to go. Next, use Google Maps and type in your addresses to get an idea of where each location is from your home. My plan usually is to start with the furthest place from home and work my way back.
This not only helps in case your vehicle gets too full to make another stop, you are already on your way home. But, it will save time and gas ($$$) because you are not randomly driving around trying to find a place to shop.
Pack that picnic lunch with plenty of beverages; both hot and cold. Grab your directions and get out the door early. With Google mapping it will give you a rough estimate on how long it will take you to get from home to your first destination then each destination thereafter. If you plan your day well, you should be able to shop at least 5 places including drive time.
If you have never experienced a day of antiquing then let this be your guide on getting into a wonderful tradition. Saturday will be your best day to plan and don't forget any estate sales. These are wonderful places to pick up some great deals on pretty much anything. With estate sales, you'll most likely be able to get in the door fairly early, say 9:00a.m. Make this your first stop prior to hitting any antique stores which usually open at 10:00a.m.
If Saturday isn't a good day, there are estate sales and garage sales on Fridays. Plan wisely for the day and you can even get home before the kids are off the bus. Get out there and enjoy the changing of the season and find yourself some wonderful things. Whatever your into, there is a treasure trove just waiting for you at your destination(s).
The best part about this great past-time is that you are doing your part by recycling and keeping perfectly good clothing, furniture, bric-a-brac, etc. out of our landfills. Go Green and go antiquing!
Until the next time,
Vicki
Friday, January 4, 2008
A New Year with New Shopping Opportunities
Whenever I celebrate a new year I rarely make resolutions I can't keep. This year is no exception. For just a moment let's forget about diets and exercise, dropping old habits just to start new ones, etc.
Instead, take a look around your home and focus on something that is near and dear to you. Have you just acquired this item or is it something that was passed down from generation to generation and it is now yours to enjoy and treasure for a time?
Now imagine this item sitting in someones home 100 years from now. Kind of hard to do isn't it? For all the things that survived burn piles and land fills to decorate homes and preserve history, there are a thousand times more items that did not. I have serious doubts that most of the new products of today will come through unscathed to reach a 100 years old.
What does this say about our current society? We've heard the term "throw away", "newest and greatest" in the same sentence describing our current generations. But it isn't like that for some of us.
I look around my home and see furniture that was handcrafted and designed to last. A beautiful English buffet with curved glass curio on the bottom. A solid oak side board with a mirrored back and hand carved designs. A claw foot chair that hugs you when you sit in it. Hand painted porcelain tankards with matching cups used to serve wine at dinner. A Victorian sofa with a curved back inviting visitors to sit and talk a while.
All of these items are 100+ years old yet are still very functional, very beautiful and deeply cherished. I'm not saying we don't have contemporary furnishings and decorative pieces; we do. What amazes me as how well the antique go with the current. An how well the antique hold up; where the comtemporary fizzles out over a very short period of time.
If you are thinking about sprucing up your surroundings in the new year with paint, paper and maybe some new furniture, please don't discount the old. Take a look around antique stores, local auctions and flea markets. There are hidden treasures everywhere that just may add a focal point to your living space. And just might become that cherished piece to be handed down from generation to generation.
Happy New Year!
Until we meet again,
My Best,
Vicki
Instead, take a look around your home and focus on something that is near and dear to you. Have you just acquired this item or is it something that was passed down from generation to generation and it is now yours to enjoy and treasure for a time?
Now imagine this item sitting in someones home 100 years from now. Kind of hard to do isn't it? For all the things that survived burn piles and land fills to decorate homes and preserve history, there are a thousand times more items that did not. I have serious doubts that most of the new products of today will come through unscathed to reach a 100 years old.
What does this say about our current society? We've heard the term "throw away", "newest and greatest" in the same sentence describing our current generations. But it isn't like that for some of us.
I look around my home and see furniture that was handcrafted and designed to last. A beautiful English buffet with curved glass curio on the bottom. A solid oak side board with a mirrored back and hand carved designs. A claw foot chair that hugs you when you sit in it. Hand painted porcelain tankards with matching cups used to serve wine at dinner. A Victorian sofa with a curved back inviting visitors to sit and talk a while.
All of these items are 100+ years old yet are still very functional, very beautiful and deeply cherished. I'm not saying we don't have contemporary furnishings and decorative pieces; we do. What amazes me as how well the antique go with the current. An how well the antique hold up; where the comtemporary fizzles out over a very short period of time.
If you are thinking about sprucing up your surroundings in the new year with paint, paper and maybe some new furniture, please don't discount the old. Take a look around antique stores, local auctions and flea markets. There are hidden treasures everywhere that just may add a focal point to your living space. And just might become that cherished piece to be handed down from generation to generation.
Happy New Year!
Until we meet again,
My Best,
Vicki
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
Post Christmas Shopping - FOR YOU!
Well, Christmas for this year is right around the bend. I hope you were able to get everything on your list for those you love. Shopping is getting to be very overwhelming and intense right now. Those last minute folks will be hitting the malls since it is a bit late to shop on line. If you haven't gotten all your shopping done, I can sympathize. I haven't either. Hopefully the next few days I can sneak out and get it done early in the morning. I know I am not alone! Here's to the great deals still to be had.
But what about after Christmas? You know - that time when all of us are looking to buy for ourselves. Let's face it, there are always items on our wish lists on Dec. 26th. Keep the faith because the best time of the season for self gift giving is fast approaching.
I personally go out to shop for Christmas decorations that are 50-75% the day after the holiday. It is so much fun tucking these items away and pulling them out next year looking oh-so-brand-new and festive. What will you be looking post-Christmas time as a gift to yourself? Have you a hint of what Santa is bringing?
Let me make a suggestion if I may - There will be many merchants still looking to entice shoppers whether it's last minute or self gifting. I am one of those merchants. If you haven't shopped my store, please do. I have wonderful antique porcelain, jewelry, vintage postcards, antiquarian books, silver and so much more. It is the time of year and into the New Year when we collectors will be looking for the next wonderful item to call our own. Sometimes it's just too hard for others to buy for us so that leaves it in our capable hands.
I hope your holiday season will be filled with joy and laughter, love and kindness, peace into the New Year. Hug your children and pets, give that special someone a kiss and to you and yours, Merry Christmas!
My Best for the Season and New Year!
Vicki
Victoria's Curio
But what about after Christmas? You know - that time when all of us are looking to buy for ourselves. Let's face it, there are always items on our wish lists on Dec. 26th. Keep the faith because the best time of the season for self gift giving is fast approaching.
I personally go out to shop for Christmas decorations that are 50-75% the day after the holiday. It is so much fun tucking these items away and pulling them out next year looking oh-so-brand-new and festive. What will you be looking post-Christmas time as a gift to yourself? Have you a hint of what Santa is bringing?
Let me make a suggestion if I may - There will be many merchants still looking to entice shoppers whether it's last minute or self gifting. I am one of those merchants. If you haven't shopped my store, please do. I have wonderful antique porcelain, jewelry, vintage postcards, antiquarian books, silver and so much more. It is the time of year and into the New Year when we collectors will be looking for the next wonderful item to call our own. Sometimes it's just too hard for others to buy for us so that leaves it in our capable hands.
I hope your holiday season will be filled with joy and laughter, love and kindness, peace into the New Year. Hug your children and pets, give that special someone a kiss and to you and yours, Merry Christmas!
My Best for the Season and New Year!
Vicki
Victoria's Curio
Saturday, December 8, 2007
Think about what you are gifting this year....
This little poem needs no explanation. I hope it saves a life!
Last Years Christmas Present
Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house
Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse;
The stockings were hung by the chimney with care,
In hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there;
The children were nestled all snug in their beds,
With no thought of the dog outside filling their head.
And mamma in her 'kerchief, and I in my cap,
Knew he was cold, but didn't care about that.
When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter,
I sprang from the bed to see what was the matter.
Away to the window I flew like a flash,
Figuring the dog was free and into the trash.
The moon on the breast of the new-fallen snow
Gave the luster of midday to objects below,
When, what to my wondering eyes should appear,
But Santa Claus - his eyes full of tears.
He unchained the dog, once so lively and quick,
Last years Christmas present, now thin and sick.
More rapid than eagles he called the dog's name.
And the dog ran to him, despite all his pain;
"Now, DASHER! Now, DANCER! Now, PRANCER and VIXEN!
On, COMET! On CUPID! On, DONNER and BLITZEN!
To the top of the porch! To the top of the wall!
Let's find this dog a home where he'll be loved by all"
I knew in an instant there would be no gifts this year,
For Santa Claus had made one thing quite clear,
The gift of a dog is not just for the season,
We had gotten the pup for all the wrong reasons.
In our haste to think of giving the kids a gift
There was one important thing that we missed.
A dog should be family, and cared for the same
You don't give a gift, then put it on a chain.
And I heard him exclaim as he rode out of sight,
"You weren't given a gift! You were given a life!"
—Author Unknown
Last Years Christmas Present
Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house
Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse;
The stockings were hung by the chimney with care,
In hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there;
The children were nestled all snug in their beds,
With no thought of the dog outside filling their head.
And mamma in her 'kerchief, and I in my cap,
Knew he was cold, but didn't care about that.
When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter,
I sprang from the bed to see what was the matter.
Away to the window I flew like a flash,
Figuring the dog was free and into the trash.
The moon on the breast of the new-fallen snow
Gave the luster of midday to objects below,
When, what to my wondering eyes should appear,
But Santa Claus - his eyes full of tears.
He unchained the dog, once so lively and quick,
Last years Christmas present, now thin and sick.
More rapid than eagles he called the dog's name.
And the dog ran to him, despite all his pain;
"Now, DASHER! Now, DANCER! Now, PRANCER and VIXEN!
On, COMET! On CUPID! On, DONNER and BLITZEN!
To the top of the porch! To the top of the wall!
Let's find this dog a home where he'll be loved by all"
I knew in an instant there would be no gifts this year,
For Santa Claus had made one thing quite clear,
The gift of a dog is not just for the season,
We had gotten the pup for all the wrong reasons.
In our haste to think of giving the kids a gift
There was one important thing that we missed.
A dog should be family, and cared for the same
You don't give a gift, then put it on a chain.
And I heard him exclaim as he rode out of sight,
"You weren't given a gift! You were given a life!"
—Author Unknown
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
Jewelry always makes a great gift!
There hasn't been once in my lifetime that I have turned my nose up at a gift of jewelry. Even if you have eclectic tastes there is a wide variety of jewelry items to fit your personality and fashion style.
I personally love older pieces and I'll tell you why. When my grandmother could no long take care of herself and moved into an assisted living environment; the grandchildren were allowed to come to her house and select special items of her and my grandfather's life together. Among the things that I cherish is the beautiful selection of vintage costume jewelry that Gramma had for her Sunday best outfits.
The brooches are timeless with rhinestones and seed pearls. The earrings are older screw back style with some matching her pins. A seed pearl choker with 20 strands attached to an antiqued clasp still makes a suit look smashing. Whenever I wear one of her pieces, I think of her. Which is, of course, the idea of cherishing vintage items passed down through the family.
Jewelry gifts offer the same feeling of remembrance to the giver and receiver. You will rarely forget a piece of jewelry you've given because it probably was given from the heart and certainly with the recipient in mind. The person receiving the gift will always remember who gave them their piece of jewelry and will think of that person when they wear it.
Jewelry does not have to be expensive nor is it gender specific. For both men and women there is an endless selection to choose from. Watches, chains, tie tacks, rings, earrings, pendants, bracelets. These are all items that can be found for the man or woman, girl or boy on your Holiday shopping list this season. The fun is finding that perfect something that really speaks to the person your buying for.
Take it from me - Jewelry ALWAYS makes a great gift!
Until next time ~
My Best,
Vicki
I personally love older pieces and I'll tell you why. When my grandmother could no long take care of herself and moved into an assisted living environment; the grandchildren were allowed to come to her house and select special items of her and my grandfather's life together. Among the things that I cherish is the beautiful selection of vintage costume jewelry that Gramma had for her Sunday best outfits.
The brooches are timeless with rhinestones and seed pearls. The earrings are older screw back style with some matching her pins. A seed pearl choker with 20 strands attached to an antiqued clasp still makes a suit look smashing. Whenever I wear one of her pieces, I think of her. Which is, of course, the idea of cherishing vintage items passed down through the family.
Jewelry gifts offer the same feeling of remembrance to the giver and receiver. You will rarely forget a piece of jewelry you've given because it probably was given from the heart and certainly with the recipient in mind. The person receiving the gift will always remember who gave them their piece of jewelry and will think of that person when they wear it.
Jewelry does not have to be expensive nor is it gender specific. For both men and women there is an endless selection to choose from. Watches, chains, tie tacks, rings, earrings, pendants, bracelets. These are all items that can be found for the man or woman, girl or boy on your Holiday shopping list this season. The fun is finding that perfect something that really speaks to the person your buying for.
Take it from me - Jewelry ALWAYS makes a great gift!
Until next time ~
My Best,
Vicki
Shop
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Holiday Shopping for Antiques and Collectibles on Ruby Lane
Let me first say that I am a collector as well as a seller of vintage and antique items. There is satisfaction in owning something that has withstood the test of time and showcases a lifestyle long ago. With all of the recalls from Chinese made products in our current news, collecting items that have been made with thought to detail and craftsmanship from years past is very satisfying.
If you have a collector in your life or you yourself are one, the internet has made this hobby so much easier and gratifying. So many places and people are offering many wonderful items and they are all at your fingertips!
The holiday shopping season is upon us and the internet is the place to shop. No hassles, easy access to millions of items, and all the convenience of having your purchases delivered right to your door. Many retailers are offering discounts to get the season started for shoppers. I am one of those retailers who work with my customers to find the best shipping method and make their shopping experience painless and hassle free.
On that note, you haven't visited Ruby Lane, I invite you to do so. Ruby Lane shops are full to bursting with vintage and antique items that will not leave you lacking in choices for gifts this Holiday season.
If you have a collector in your life or you yourself are one, the internet has made this hobby so much easier and gratifying. So many places and people are offering many wonderful items and they are all at your fingertips!
The holiday shopping season is upon us and the internet is the place to shop. No hassles, easy access to millions of items, and all the convenience of having your purchases delivered right to your door. Many retailers are offering discounts to get the season started for shoppers. I am one of those retailers who work with my customers to find the best shipping method and make their shopping experience painless and hassle free.
On that note, you haven't visited Ruby Lane, I invite you to do so. Ruby Lane shops are full to bursting with vintage and antique items that will not leave you lacking in choices for gifts this Holiday season.
Shop
My Best to you ~
Vicki
Victoria's Curio
Sunday, June 10, 2007
Antique Furniture for Today
Sometimes it's easier to let other people show you what is worth collecting simply by paying attention to their purchases. This weekend I had an opportunity to see the other side of buying up close and personal. I was asked to lend a hand at an estate sale by a local prominent company that always have wonderful items to offer. I was still able to shop and was very pleased at what I purchased, but the fun and exciting part was watching others.
This estate had beautiful furniture pieces dating from the mid 1800's to now. One piece that sold the minute the door opened was a leaded glass bookcase. Other pieces had to wait for their new owners to find their way through the door.
A Victorian fainting couch and an Art Deco cedar chest that went to one young lady who was very pleased. Another gentleman decided on gorgeous gate leg table, pine glass door book case, and a beautiful spinet lady's desk. He definitely knew quality when he saw it.
Another item quietly waited in the corner of the dining room for a new home. This was a very large original oak ice box with a lift up top and original hardware. There it waited, as people oohed and ahhed at it but walked away searching for smaller treasures. Finally, a young man in his late 30's walked in and spotted this beautiful old ice chest. He lifted the lid and opened the doors and after his inspection, he said "I'll take it". Another happy collector.
A Victorian Settee and matching chairs also waited patiently in the living room of this old house. Again, buyers walked by commenting on how lovely it was, but were not interested in purchasing such an old set for one reason or another. "No where to put it", "My husband would kill me", the comments were probably true. The right person walked in, struck a deal and was quite happy to take this antique set home to cherish and enjoy.
Other items that made their way to new homes were an old chopping block table that must have weighed 500 pounds, a white enameled table and matching chairs, a flax wheel and yarn wheel, and a child's roll topped desk. These pieces were made with such care and quality, that I personally would pass up a contemporary alternative for one of these old items. That is the mentality of a true collector. You don't scour the Sunday ads for new things, you turn to the auction and estate classifieds to see where you will be shopping that week.
Estate sales and auctions are such a fun experience that everyone should try them out at least once. You never know what you will find and what you will learn. They can certainly be a window to the past of how life was lived long ago.
With all the wonderful things that were for sale, it was hard to walk away with the few items I had and not continue to buy. The Victorian Settee was especially appealing to me but I knew if I was to purchase and then call my husband with the news, it would not have gone well. I can commiserate with the "My husband would kill me" buyer. But this set is on my wish list for sometime in the future. And when I do buy, my husband will be with me (hopefully writing the check)!
Here is hoping your treasure hunting is successful!
Until next time.
My Best,
Vicki
Victoria's Curio
Visit our store to shop our unique selection of antique and vintage items. While you are visiting take a look at our sale items!
Also visit us on Squidoo!
This estate had beautiful furniture pieces dating from the mid 1800's to now. One piece that sold the minute the door opened was a leaded glass bookcase. Other pieces had to wait for their new owners to find their way through the door.
A Victorian fainting couch and an Art Deco cedar chest that went to one young lady who was very pleased. Another gentleman decided on gorgeous gate leg table, pine glass door book case, and a beautiful spinet lady's desk. He definitely knew quality when he saw it.
Another item quietly waited in the corner of the dining room for a new home. This was a very large original oak ice box with a lift up top and original hardware. There it waited, as people oohed and ahhed at it but walked away searching for smaller treasures. Finally, a young man in his late 30's walked in and spotted this beautiful old ice chest. He lifted the lid and opened the doors and after his inspection, he said "I'll take it". Another happy collector.
A Victorian Settee and matching chairs also waited patiently in the living room of this old house. Again, buyers walked by commenting on how lovely it was, but were not interested in purchasing such an old set for one reason or another. "No where to put it", "My husband would kill me", the comments were probably true. The right person walked in, struck a deal and was quite happy to take this antique set home to cherish and enjoy.
Other items that made their way to new homes were an old chopping block table that must have weighed 500 pounds, a white enameled table and matching chairs, a flax wheel and yarn wheel, and a child's roll topped desk. These pieces were made with such care and quality, that I personally would pass up a contemporary alternative for one of these old items. That is the mentality of a true collector. You don't scour the Sunday ads for new things, you turn to the auction and estate classifieds to see where you will be shopping that week.
Estate sales and auctions are such a fun experience that everyone should try them out at least once. You never know what you will find and what you will learn. They can certainly be a window to the past of how life was lived long ago.
With all the wonderful things that were for sale, it was hard to walk away with the few items I had and not continue to buy. The Victorian Settee was especially appealing to me but I knew if I was to purchase and then call my husband with the news, it would not have gone well. I can commiserate with the "My husband would kill me" buyer. But this set is on my wish list for sometime in the future. And when I do buy, my husband will be with me (hopefully writing the check)!
Here is hoping your treasure hunting is successful!
Until next time.
My Best,
Vicki
Victoria's Curio
Visit our store to shop our unique selection of antique and vintage items. While you are visiting take a look at our sale items!
Also visit us on Squidoo!
Wednesday, May 30, 2007
Buying Collectibles On The Internet
The great thing about buying on the internet is that you can sit at your computer in the comfort and privacy of your own home and browse, and browse, and browse..But, what you can't do is hold the item in your hand, inspect it with your own eyes (or someone else's) and get a feel for the item's qualities. There is definitely good and bad about buying on-line. Let's talk about both sides of this issue.
The GOOD about shopping for collectibles on the internet:
1. WWW means Worldwide Wide Web and that is just what it is. There are people literally all over the world selling everything and it is right at your finger tips.
2. Selection is great on the internet. If you are into numerous collectible areas this is a huge time saver. Use anyone of the search engines, type in your key word(s) and you are off shopping.
3. Price comparisons can be instantly done with internet shopping. Bookmark an item and continue shopping the internet until you find another comparable item. Bring up the bookmarked site and you can compare side by side without ever leaving your chair.
4. Internet shopping is a savings in many areas. It can save you time, money, and gas. With the price of gasoline in the U.S., folks are not leaving home as much and discretionary income is dwindling. If you don't want to totally give up your collectible habit, then buying on line can help salvage this. Your time is also money as they say, and with the internet open 24/7, whenever the mood strikes you can shop.
5. Convenience has played a role in all of the above and it is the utmost in this - a delivery of your item right to your door. Yes, we all know postage has gone up, but if you roll all of the other conveniences together with delivery to your door, the postage paid is well worth it. Most likely, you would have paid more in gas and time had you search your local buying area and may have come home empty handed to boot.
The Bad about shopping for collectibles on the internet:
1. As mentioned above, you do not get the thrill of holding your would be collectible in your hand when cyber shopping. This is a drawback. BUT, after the first few purchases on line, you will enjoy the anticipation of receiving your item which will outweigh the instant gratification.
2. Security has (and is at times) been a problem with purchasing on line. It still holds many people back from taking the plunge. Because of this, there are other options rather than giving away your credit card information. Many on-line merchants understand this and will wait to receive a money order or check should you wish to pay that way. If you really want to use the convenience of a charge card, PayPal and Google Checkout are set up so you can use them as a go between for payment of your recent find. No credit card information is given to the merchant directly. Payment is made to them with only a verification of your shipping address. Just make sure that you are buying from a merchant that can offer this, and your apprehension will quickly ease away.
3. Fakes and Forgeries - Alas, this is a huge concern for those that collect "signed" items. There are a great many forgeries and you as a consumer need to understand what to look for concerning your particular area of collectibles. If you are suspicious of an item, as many questions of the seller. Should they hem, haw and hedge no doubt your suspicions are right and you should avoid the transaction.
I guess in my book, the internet really is a great place to shop. Of course I'm a seller too, so I'm going to be a bit biased. But, I hope that what we have discussed here has put your mind at ease about shopping on the World Wide Web. It is a very fun, interesting, and surprising market place. You may not always find a particular item you are looking for right at that moment. But keep trying. I'm sure at some point you'll be surprised and elated that someone has found your treasure. I am also a source of collectibles and let my customers know to contact me if they are looking for something specific. I do their shopping for them as I attend many estate sales and auctions. So let your fingers do the work and enjoy the leisure of internet collectible shopping.
Until next time...
My Best,
Vicki
Victoria's Curio
Visit our store for more details and to shop our unique selection of antique and vintage items.
Visit Victoria's Curio on Squidoo
The GOOD about shopping for collectibles on the internet:
1. WWW means Worldwide Wide Web and that is just what it is. There are people literally all over the world selling everything and it is right at your finger tips.
2. Selection is great on the internet. If you are into numerous collectible areas this is a huge time saver. Use anyone of the search engines, type in your key word(s) and you are off shopping.
3. Price comparisons can be instantly done with internet shopping. Bookmark an item and continue shopping the internet until you find another comparable item. Bring up the bookmarked site and you can compare side by side without ever leaving your chair.
4. Internet shopping is a savings in many areas. It can save you time, money, and gas. With the price of gasoline in the U.S., folks are not leaving home as much and discretionary income is dwindling. If you don't want to totally give up your collectible habit, then buying on line can help salvage this. Your time is also money as they say, and with the internet open 24/7, whenever the mood strikes you can shop.
5. Convenience has played a role in all of the above and it is the utmost in this - a delivery of your item right to your door. Yes, we all know postage has gone up, but if you roll all of the other conveniences together with delivery to your door, the postage paid is well worth it. Most likely, you would have paid more in gas and time had you search your local buying area and may have come home empty handed to boot.
The Bad about shopping for collectibles on the internet:
1. As mentioned above, you do not get the thrill of holding your would be collectible in your hand when cyber shopping. This is a drawback. BUT, after the first few purchases on line, you will enjoy the anticipation of receiving your item which will outweigh the instant gratification.
2. Security has (and is at times) been a problem with purchasing on line. It still holds many people back from taking the plunge. Because of this, there are other options rather than giving away your credit card information. Many on-line merchants understand this and will wait to receive a money order or check should you wish to pay that way. If you really want to use the convenience of a charge card, PayPal and Google Checkout are set up so you can use them as a go between for payment of your recent find. No credit card information is given to the merchant directly. Payment is made to them with only a verification of your shipping address. Just make sure that you are buying from a merchant that can offer this, and your apprehension will quickly ease away.
3. Fakes and Forgeries - Alas, this is a huge concern for those that collect "signed" items. There are a great many forgeries and you as a consumer need to understand what to look for concerning your particular area of collectibles. If you are suspicious of an item, as many questions of the seller. Should they hem, haw and hedge no doubt your suspicions are right and you should avoid the transaction.
I guess in my book, the internet really is a great place to shop. Of course I'm a seller too, so I'm going to be a bit biased. But, I hope that what we have discussed here has put your mind at ease about shopping on the World Wide Web. It is a very fun, interesting, and surprising market place. You may not always find a particular item you are looking for right at that moment. But keep trying. I'm sure at some point you'll be surprised and elated that someone has found your treasure. I am also a source of collectibles and let my customers know to contact me if they are looking for something specific. I do their shopping for them as I attend many estate sales and auctions. So let your fingers do the work and enjoy the leisure of internet collectible shopping.
Until next time...
My Best,
Vicki
Victoria's Curio
Visit our store for more details and to shop our unique selection of antique and vintage items.
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Saturday, April 14, 2007
Shopping for Antiques & Collectibles On-Line
Hi Folks - I've touched on various venues outside your home that you can shop for your favorite collectible. Today I'm going to talk about the internet venue. For many of us, eBay is the first place that comes to mind. I am a seller of collectibles and have my own eBay store. Many other sellers who have Brick & Mortar stores also have an on-line presence to reach a much broader audience.
What used to be a day trip to different antique stores can now be done in the comfort of your own home. There are many, many stores out there that have wonderful items (mine included) that just take a bit of searching to find. With your cuppa in hand, you can relax and browse hundreds, nay thousands of items. Let's touch on a few basics and you'll be ready to start.
1. Search words - Search engines such as Google and Yahoo! help tremendously with research and shopping on the internet. The more specific you can be about what you are searching for can sometimes back fire though. My recommendation is to start a general word search and work your way down to specifics. Why? Because not all sellers use the same words in describing what they have. Search engines only pick up what others have typed in. But, if you are searching for a specific manufacturer of an item, then by all means, use that phrase first in your search. Most likely if an item is marked with a specific manufacturer, a seller will out that in their description to help a potential customer find their item.
2. Antique On-Line Malls - There are wonderful antique malls right on the internet that have a slew of sellers with all types of items. TIAS and Ruby Lane are but two that come to mind and are the tops in on-line Malls. Browsing at both of these venues is fun and educational. They both have newsletters that you can sign up for that will keep you informed of new and exciting additions. TIAS has started collector's groups which you can become of member of and interact with other collectors. The more the merrier and there is always something to be learned from others.
3. eBay - The World's On-Line Auction Venue - eBay isn't just an auction venue anymore. If you haven't visited in a while, please come and check out the many layers of buying that eBay offers. I myself have an eBay Store - Victoria's Curio - that caters to those that are not interested in waiting and watching an auction. You can come right in and shop, buy, and pay with just a few clicks. No waiting involved and combined shipping on items make this an alternative to the auction format. Most of my items are purchased directly from buyers that come into my store. I am not the only seller on eBay. This again is a wonderful "Mall" of sellers with inventory to purchase without bidding.
Well, what are you waiting for ~ Get shopping!
Until next time.
My Best,
Vicki
Visit our store ~ Victoria’s Curio for more details and to shop our unique selection of antique and vintage items.
What used to be a day trip to different antique stores can now be done in the comfort of your own home. There are many, many stores out there that have wonderful items (mine included) that just take a bit of searching to find. With your cuppa in hand, you can relax and browse hundreds, nay thousands of items. Let's touch on a few basics and you'll be ready to start.
1. Search words - Search engines such as Google and Yahoo! help tremendously with research and shopping on the internet. The more specific you can be about what you are searching for can sometimes back fire though. My recommendation is to start a general word search and work your way down to specifics. Why? Because not all sellers use the same words in describing what they have. Search engines only pick up what others have typed in. But, if you are searching for a specific manufacturer of an item, then by all means, use that phrase first in your search. Most likely if an item is marked with a specific manufacturer, a seller will out that in their description to help a potential customer find their item.
2. Antique On-Line Malls - There are wonderful antique malls right on the internet that have a slew of sellers with all types of items. TIAS and Ruby Lane are but two that come to mind and are the tops in on-line Malls. Browsing at both of these venues is fun and educational. They both have newsletters that you can sign up for that will keep you informed of new and exciting additions. TIAS has started collector's groups which you can become of member of and interact with other collectors. The more the merrier and there is always something to be learned from others.
3. eBay - The World's On-Line Auction Venue - eBay isn't just an auction venue anymore. If you haven't visited in a while, please come and check out the many layers of buying that eBay offers. I myself have an eBay Store - Victoria's Curio - that caters to those that are not interested in waiting and watching an auction. You can come right in and shop, buy, and pay with just a few clicks. No waiting involved and combined shipping on items make this an alternative to the auction format. Most of my items are purchased directly from buyers that come into my store. I am not the only seller on eBay. This again is a wonderful "Mall" of sellers with inventory to purchase without bidding.
Well, what are you waiting for ~ Get shopping!
Until next time.
My Best,
Vicki
Visit our store ~ Victoria’s Curio for more details and to shop our unique selection of antique and vintage items.
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