How & Where to Buy Vintage/Antique Items

There are many ways to snag great vintage and antique finds. I am often asked for the best places to find items. The answer depends on a variety of factors, including how much time you have available. Here are my favorite ways you can find vintage and antique items!

Thrifting (for the bargain shoppers!)

This type of shopping typically takes place in a local thrift store. I enjoy it very much because you never know what you’re going to find! You could run across an item you’ve researched and are looking for or you could find something that just sparks your eye. Either way, thrift stores usually often have the best prices because items are donated.

Here are my top tips for thrifting:

1. Go on an early weekend morning. I always like to get there right when the doors open. Most thrift stores put out items that were donated over the week on Saturday morning.

2. Call ahead and ask about discounts. Many stores offer discounts throughout the week. It may be 20% of kitchen items on Mondays or BOGO on all clothing items for the week. Also, many thrift stores offer special discounts to students, military, seniors and teachers.

Auctions & Estate Sales (for those who are willing to wait in line)

These sales are the best places to find antique items (40+ years old). However, they are a bit more complicated. Keep in mind most auction and estate sales only take cash. You can find upcoming sales in your local newspaper or online. These items are typically priced at a fair rate, but a bit higher than if you found it at a thrift store or online. This is due to the cost of the sale, including fees for the auctioneer and a buyer's premium.

Here are my top tip for shopping auction and estate sales:

1. Look up items before you go. Auction and estate sales list their items online to drum up interest and attendance. Checking the items before you go can end up saving you a lot of time.

2. Be patient. Unlike thrifting, you need to show up very early and get in line for these sales. Due to COVID, most places only let a few people in at a time. You will likely spend time waiting in line before you even get to see what is available. Wear comfortable shoes and bring a snack!

Antique Malls & Shops

This is one of my favorite ways to find items! Antique malls and shops are fun because everything stocked has a story. I guarantee you will find something you love. Many physical shops offer a competitive price, but keep in mind vendors are required to pay booth rental. You may be able to find it cheaper online, but you'll have to pay for shipping and wait for it’s arrival.

Here are my top tip for shopping antique malls and shops:

1. Bring cash for a better deal! Credit card processors take a portion of the profit for vendors. With cash, you may be able to get the item for a less rate.

2. Form relationships with the vendors if you can.

Online Shops (easiest!)

Last but not least, online shops! This is my absolute favorite way to share the items I find.

This is the quiet and most efficient way to find the items you want most. I do all the searching, digging, cleaning and packaging so you can just enjoy the item.

Here are my top tips for online shopping:

1. Shipping is a big part of the process. If you find a shop with free shipping, you have hit the gold mine! Most shops charge large shipping rates due to high-quality packaging.

2. Read the description carefully. Shop owners are usually great at sharing a detailed description, including dimensions and any imperfections.

3. Shop my store here!

Here’s the thing to keep in mind… anyone can become a thrifter, antique/vintage shopper! Whether you’re looking to start collecting items or want to decorate your house with vintage furniture, you can absolutely do it. I hope this article kick starts your journey!