The Evolution Of A Connecticut Home Stager: Antiques Dealer

The Evolution Of A Connecticut Home Stager: Antiques Dealer

When I "retired" from Corporate America, I had a plan. Aside from starting an interior decorating business, I also decided to become an Antiques Dealer.

With so many antiques galleries in the Fairfield and New Haven Counties (CT), it was relatively easy to find rental space. Dealers are responsible for providing inventory and merchandising their own "shops", and the gallery staff takes care of the rest - all for a monthly rental fee, which is deducted from the sales. Best of all, you don't have to be there!

My first "shop" - with a shopper in it! Those vintage floral baskets were all the rage. They sold really well when I put dried hydrangea in them.

Months before retiring, I started purchasing inventory. I had done my homework, and knew that dealers with a specific point of view and look drew the most shoppers. Sharp prices made for the most sales. So I decided to focus on a Country version of "Shabby Chic". Yes, ten years ago, Connecticut was riding the Shabby Chic tidal wave.

Vintage or antique, I kept most of the inventory white or in pale pastels. That dresser went the first day!

Most Home Stagers love to shop, and this future Stager had a blast. With my sister, Annette, frequently in tow, I went to the flea markets in New Milford, consignment shops in Rhode Island, and best of all, the periodic antique extravaganzas in Brimfield, MA. Auctions, estate/tag/garage sales, and - yes - road side finds were also inventory staples. The most important factor: Buy What You Love!

I LOVE that painting of the lilacs (upper left corner) - wish I hadn't sold it. But if you can buy something for $25, and sell it for $300 - you do!

"Smalls" are lovingly arranged on shelves.

I spent a lot of time re-wiring lamps, cleaning old painted surfaces, lining drawers with vintage wallpaper, painting pieces, and making simple repairs. Everything I sold was move-in ready! (Sound familiar???)

Juvenile furniture went well - I hand-painted some Swedish designs on some chairs.

Some of my favorite things were these tiny vintage sheep, made from spun wool.

So, that's a little more about a path I took to Home Staging. What were you doing ten years ago?