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.
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