Seems like several people have their own shops on here. I was wondering today as I was fleaing how the shop owners on here got started in their business...
Junk Revolution Community » Rescue
Topic: Getting started
(120 posts)-
Posted 4 years ago #
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Hi Leveta:
I do not have my own shop - but I do rent a large booth/room and a case in the Hixton Schoolhouse Antique Mall in Wisconsin.
I started in 2001 with a case at a mall in Madison, Wisconsin...my husband urged me to give it a try. The plan, at first, was just to weed out my own overflow/stock of stuff. Well, that case became a booth at one mall & then another...and I began to buy to resell.By selling, I was able to enjoy hunting & gathering and displaying. It also "fed" my hobby - offering me money to reinvest. It has also provided tax advantages.
I will be honest, my rule is to at least double my rent each --- and I decided at the beginning that if I was not able to meet that goal, I would not continue to sell. I have never been disappointed - usually far exceeding this rule of thumb.
To me, it also has to be fun. And, when I tire of something in my home - it is great to have a "little store" to take it to.
KariPosted 4 years ago # -
I would suggest getting a booth before getting a shop. Keep good records so you actually know if you are making money. I tried a booth for awhile, and I did well. My problem was that the management of the mall was impossible to work with. Almost everyone who was there when I was there has now left for the same reason. Make sure that you know all the rules of the mall up front, and can live with them. Talk to other dealers to see if there are any issues with that mall that you should be aware of. Then remember to have fun, That's the point, because none of us are getting rich at this.
Just my opinion.
MargoView my blog at:
http://robolady.blogspot.com/Posted 4 years ago # -
I've been thinking of opening up my own business for a couple of years now. I haven't taken the plunge yet. I've been doing the craft show thing but they are on the weekends and during the warmer seasons it's hard to commit to alot of them. Last year I was only able to make 2 shows. Between rain, b-days, 2 weddings and a graduation my crafting season was nearly booked up with other things. I haven't done the mall scene because the ones around here are about 25 miles away or farther. I'm not sure if it would be feasable with the gas prices. The overhead for my own building sure wouldn't be profitable either.
I just reread this. Boy, do I sound whinney. (lol) I guess if i'm gonna be this nit-pickey, I'll never start my own business!!!!
Advise would be very helpful.
Cindy (tinta)Posted 4 years ago # -
Lila
MemberLeveta: Thank you for starting this discussion. I'm enjoying reading all the thoughts of the more experienced. We can only keep so much of the goodies we find and need to have ideas for an outlet to pass things on. I hope more contribute to this topic. I'm listening!
LilaPosted 4 years ago # -
Lila thank you. Like you I to have enjoyed these wonderful ladies stories...I do have a little shop that looks like a cabin. DH and I and BIL built last yr. I sell pumpkins,gourds,indian corn,ect for fall displays. I had different people whom I knew that had different talents make things for the shop. I'm only seasonal but this yr I may do christmas also. But looking at these ladies blogs and sites I just got to wondering how that started. Was it slow like me or did it just happen, ect....And it's also inspiring...I did do well last yr. Mostly with the produce, but many loved the crafted things also. I have bought many after christmas sale items for next yr. My sister who has the golden touch I hope is going to help me(as she has her hand full with things at this time). But I am learning, but I am a slooooow learner...Please tell your stories ladies, it's a blessing to hear them....Thank You....
Posted 4 years ago # -
I am hesitant to reply to this post because I have so many questions in my own mind about what I'm doing, but since a couple of you asked, I'll share my story, too.
Three years ago I opened my shop, but half of that time I wasn't open due to relocating/remodeling. It's about 1000 sq. ft. of industrial space. Most of my merchandise is pieces I've redesigned from other stuff, though I have a few antiques. It is noramlly workshop, not open to the public. I set up my wares for the public and sell occasionally.
Here's how it started. I always planned on having a business "someday" but never saw the right thing. Meanwhile, my mom years were spent fixing up a lot of the houses we lived in. I can now do pretty much any construction project (no roofs please!)
and am good with my tools. I also followed many HGTV type shows. Wasn't really into antiques or junking hardcore, but liked unique, interesting things and liked to be creative. When I read about 2 ladies in Minnesota who had a junking business, I knew INSTANTLY that's what I was going to do. Took my 2 daughters on a road trip to check out one of their sales (and the Mall of America) and came home and announced to my family I was going for it!I had no savings or financial backing, but went forward in faith because I knew if I didn't do it then, it would never happen for me. Probably foolish of me, (my family would say so) but I didn't go in lightly. I tried to study it alot on the internet etc. However, there isn't really a standard to go by. I started by patterning it after JunkMarket and adjusting as I went. I felt I had to rent warehouse space beceause I have so much stuff, I need room to make things, but mostly my vision from the start was to hold workshops for people. I want junk now to be what pottery workshops were in the 90's.
I can't say that I've been successful, but I'm still open. My main struggle has been exposure. I have very few people attend my sales and very few takers on my classes. People just don't know about me. When they come they usually freak out a little bit and love my stuff. Some actually tell me they're giddy and some want to work for me. So, I continue to try more things. I'm not giving up yet. I don't regret starting it and still believe it's going to catch on. But it's definitely been more challenging than I would have imagined. The main thing is I'm still having fun!
Midge
Posted 4 years ago # -
Midge if I lived near you I would love to learn. There is nothing around where I live. Well I can't say nothing. But it's few and far between. I'm "off the beaten path"(shop name). We have sold produce for yrs then dad had several strokes and since we also do nuts(black walnuts, hickory, and pecans)I had to stop the produce cause it was to much to do and help take care of dad. I started again 2 falls ago. People came back and lots of new people. I have lots of different produce at a very good price so all can enjoy the fruits of my labors...lol
Posted 4 years ago # -
Oh, wow, this sounds like true confessions. I, too, am a junk-aholic and my husband has a hard time grasping the joy or profitability of it all. Eventually, I would also like to open up a shop of some type or at least rent a booth somewhere. I can't go to any type of estate sale etc. and buying without first looking at the items and try to think of what I'D do with each item - not what it was made for. I guess I'd kind of like to re-invent the wheel or something but in less time. Midge - Do you think that a lot of people just "don't get it" about what we make or do or like to collect? I think of it like trying to open up a trendy coffee shop in a town with one stop sign life is spent on your own back porch with your own coffee and no one is open to change or new ideas. I'm in the process of re-organizing my "junk rooms" right now and I'm ready to quit doing what I do because I've run out of storage space and assembly areas. Shrug!
Posted 4 years ago # -
Hi...just came home from an auction, and was fun to tune back in to this conversation.
Several other items I would add:
1. It is about taking a risk - but, if you don't try -- then it is maybe a regret...you may have to be patient or tweak your idea -- but why not "dream with your eyes open". **It is also important to take a wise risk - for instance you may want to try a small booth first, work with a mall with month to month leases (vs. a lock in 6 month lease), and as Margo stated - know the rules of the mall.
2. You have to be true to yourself. I have found my niche, and have stayed very true to buying what I like vs. only what I think might sell. I then am selling a style too...and some won't like it, but others will.
3. I believe, if you have a booth or case or shop -- you have to "work it" -- spending time to highlight what you have thru creative display, even adding notes about what an item might be used for. For instance, I have this thing for old mop buckets on wheels right now -- the metal ones. I will add them to a garden area of my booth with a note attached to each bucket "Plant in me...I am moveable too!"
4. As in this forum - don't be afraid to ask questions...I ask everywhere I go. I have found wonderful mentors over the years.
KariPosted 4 years ago # -
I, too, think this is a great post and appreciate the wise words of everyone. It's nice to hear thoughts from people who have "been there".
Chic -- It's funny that you'd say you reinvent the wheel, my husband is always asking me why I feel compelled to do that. Maybe it's a trait of junkers. I do think there are some people who don't get it and never will. But they are a great many people who do get it, and love it. And the numbers are increasing all the time. And not to stereotype, but it seems the younger, the more likely that they get it. College age LOVES repurposed stuff. In my case, I think I have to continue to unravel the mystery of marketing. And as Kari said, display is huge. It's my weak area, so I'm trying to learn and improve and to ask for help when I need it. Hope you continue to work on stuff, but I can definitely relate to space issues.
Leveta -- Thanks for the good words. And your produce stand sounds like a hike from me, but it sure sounds fun!Midge
Posted 4 years ago # -
lovecrafting
MemberI just opened a booth in a local antique mall 2 weeks ago just to see how it would go. The rent was really reasonable and I figured why not give it a shot. Things have been slow so far but they are everywhere in our area. I am confident they'll pick up and things will go well. Cross your fingers for me!
Posted 4 years ago # -
Lovecrafting: Good for you - you are "Doing It"! And, you are right - we still are not certain how the economy will effect our business. On the one hand - at my mall, we are still seeing people coming in for reasonably priced well-made items, "green" items (reuse,recycle), and for people to get a bang for their buck.
Even in a good economy - there will be slow months: generally December, May & September --- and those in the business for a long time can usually share with you this information.
Kari
Posted 4 years ago # -
I have had my little store for 15 years now! Time does fly! When people ask me, " What's it like to own your own store? I've always wanted to do that!" ... my reply is... "You know that romantic dream of owning your own country store? Well... it's not all you think it is!" You have to love it and have it in your blood! Because we aren't getting rich, that's for sure! But, it is a nice supplement and does help justify our desire for shopping, decorating and the hunt for "old stuff" !
I started out open full time. Six days a week with my sister as my partner. She soon quit and I was on my own. Our town, just outside of Omaha, had a few little shops in it and we tried joint venturing on advertising. Many of shops have come and gone. I had many a day where I didn't see one customer and you'd end up talking to the birds and squirrels! In the early days I could have two people and do $100.00, some days I could have 30 people and do $8.00. It's retail and you just never know. It was very hard to keep the shop full of antiques, re-purposed, and handmade items when I was there all the time. In the fall, here in the mid-west there are a lot of craft shows, antique markets etc. When I was open all the time I wasn't able to go... so sometimes that "romantic dream" wasn't as much fun as going to other shows and shops!
After a few years I started cutting back and closing during the slow times, winter and summer. Now I am an event only store, holding "open houses" for each season and opening on Saturdays for the Holiday season. During an open house, customers begin to line up an hour before we open. I have added market items along with our handmade items and "Rescued Furniture" my husband creates from old doors, windows and antique pieces. Having a mix of product sets us apart from any "regular" retail store. Our store is very tiny, which surprises first time customers that we can pack so much into a tiny space. They have to circle many times to see it all.
In this economic "crunch" to say the least, I am glad that I am not open on a full time basis. Having to not keep the store full on a regular basis is a good thing. I have a mailing list and if I send a flyer ... they will come! My customers are ready for a Whistle Stop "fix" by the time the next show comes around and it gives me time to make and hunt for new "old" things.
If you are thinking of opening up a shop this would be my advice to you...
... begin by having "shows... open houses" at your own home to create a customer following
... create a mailing list... even if you are open full time, hold special "events" to get many customers there at one time to create a "buying frenzy"
... if you take the plunge to open a store front, find as cheap of rent as you can. You don't want to spend all you make on rent... you need to have money to replace merchandise... customers want to see new things every time they come!
... location, location, location... if you are not visible you need to do a lot more advertising for people to find you. Join forces with other shop owners in the area to share advertising costs.
I am off the main street and people still have a hard time finding me!
... keep up with your book work!!! It doesn't take long for it to get out of hand. You wear many hats when you are a shop owner! ... customer service agent; janitor; decorator; handy woman; bookkeeper; advertising agent; event organizer ... and I'm sure more duties that I can't think of right now.With all that said... if you love it... and can afford to try... go for it! It is a lot of fun, you meet many nice people and make some good friends along the way.
Sorry, I didn't mean to write a book!
Take a look at our website to see some pic's of what we do!Posted 4 years ago # -
csudderth
MemberI don't presently sell my stuff but, like many others, I would like to find a way to. There is a waiting list for the antique mall here in town which is kind of amazing because some of the booths in there have the same thing most of the time. I've really enjoyed and appreciated all the input all you experienced people have given to us hopefuls. Maybe I'll take the plunge soon!
Christy
Posted 4 years ago # -
primstop thank you. That's the way I'd like to do things. I'm only open maybe 3rd weekend in sept to before holloween. But this yr i'm shooting for xmas as well. I'd like to even have a weekend with santa....My shop was paid for as we went along. The barnwood on the inside walls was free. The cedar that was to go on the floor(which I'm not doing now)was all cut by my DH and his brother. So in this way I'm very blessed. I hate that now at 48 i'm getting the chance to do what I've wanted to do for yrs. I think your ideals are great about the open houses. I thought about having like a womens day and have someone come in that sells maybe beauty or skins products...Have a few eats and just let them relax....
Posted 4 years ago # -
Primstop, thank you, thank you, thank you for all the advise. It's no wonder you've been at this for 15 years. You've got a great outlook on the whole thing. After reading your post, I just decided I am going to take the plunge. Thank you for the boost that I needed. :) :) :)
Leveta - you have a great idea, "having like a womens day and have someone come in that sells maybe beauty or skin products."
Cindy (tinta)Posted 4 years ago # -
Tinta -- Congrats on your decision to finally take the plunge into business ownership. I hope things go really well for you. Have your decided how you're going to set it up -- craft show, mall booth, or your own building? Or did you come up with some other game plan? How exciting!
Midge
Posted 4 years ago # -
morninglori
MemberMy friend and I started doing a show in her garden 1 weekend in June and have found that to be very sucessful. Our stuff is garden themed, we hit all the sales and redo,paint,and create things out of our treasures. This will be our 3rd year and the satisfaction we have gotten, along with the growth we have both made in what we do, can't even be described! Its alot of work but also alot of fun and it leaves all the other weekends available to hit the estate sales,flea markets,and garage sales to start it all over again!
Sandy
Posted 4 years ago # -
Midge, My first idea is to have it like a yard sale to start out with. One a month. I'll get my yard all decorated with products that I will sell so people can see how to use them. Or...My insurance agent owns a few buildings in town (I live near a town with only 1700 people). I thought if I could, talk to him about getting cheap rent for the first year just to see how it would go. I probably won't have time to make things and get a building ready right away so I will still start with the yard sale idea just so I can start working on getting clientelle.
My next thing is....how do you all keep track of your inventory? bookkeeping? etc? Is there a program out there for the computer to use for this type of business? I am no good at spreadsheet to customize something.
Cindy (tinta)Posted 4 years ago # -
petals
MemberI use Quickbooks for my flower/gift/antique shop. It works fairly well. I take a physical inventory once a year... thinking about doing it twice a year but its so much work!
KimPosted 4 years ago # -
Cindy---Good for you -- "dream with your eyes open"!
My next step from the mall I sell at is to open the hay loft in our barn for occasional sales (likely three weekends a year when the traffic on the road we live on is heavier with people heading north). We have been preparing the barn since we bought our farm in 2006: donated all the straw & hay in 2007, new tin roof in 2008...exterior stairs this year. I hope to open late summer 2009 or 2010. I will use my antique booth to help advertise since I use the name of our farm "Meadowview Farm" in all I do now for name recognition.
Also -- be sure to collect email addresses on a sign in sheet at your sale -- then you can quickly send out invites and reminders of your next sale.
Kari
Posted 4 years ago # -
Oh it's good to be back. Been without power since tues. Kari I love the ideal of the barn loft. I'd love to see what you've done to it..
Posted 4 years ago # -
Oh Kari, I do love a good barn sale! I'm only a couple of hours away and will definitely be there.
Posted 4 years ago # -
I'm with the others, the sales held in the barn loft sounds really cool. Wish I was closer, too. But hey, you never know. Thanks for all your insight advice on this post. It's been helpful to me and I'm sure to others.
Midge
Posted 4 years ago # -
Hey Kari, I would love to have an old barn! Some day maybe. I have been looking for
"junking" places to go in Oregon when I go to visit my friend this summer. I ran across this blog http://barnhousebh.blogspot.com/ It's just a metal pole barn but, boy they do it up awesome for their sales. Just thought it might give you some ideas and inspiration.
LauriePosted 4 years ago # -
Leveta...oh no - you must have been in the "ice storm" - glad your power is on again.
Marge...when the day comes when my barn opens - I will be sure to post it here. I am just 20 minutes south of Eau Claire, Wisconsin -just about 4 miles off I94.
Midge & Laurie...thanks for your support on the barn -- we had carpenters from our Amish Community put on the tin roof this past October -- what a day when all the horses & wagons arrived. My little goats didn't quite know what to do!
I will keep you posted and will try to add pictures this spring.
KariPosted 4 years ago # -
Kari yes our whole state was in state of emergency. Spent 4 days in garage with grandbabies. But we are in home and i''m washin clothes...Oh I wish I could be there to see. Please take many pic's. I would have loved to see the amish also. I was born in Lancaster Pa. They are amazing craftsman...Take pic of your barn and show us when you can. I'm sooo excited for you...
Posted 4 years ago # -
What an inspirational topic and comments! My story...
I have always been a risk taker and my husband says I look at life through rose colored glasses. I suppose I do. I started my first retail store when I was 19, women's clothing. I begged my mom & dad to invest in my dream and they did. I was clueless. I was a fashion merchandising drop out. (I lasted less than 2 weeks.) But I had a vision and I believed in it. I was a tireless worker and learned along the way. Folks told me I would be out of business within 12 months. I ran a successful multi-store retail business for 25 years. In hind sight, what would I have done differently? Signed up for an accounting class.
I believe the reason I was successful was that I didn't doubt my decisions and I loved merchandising. I found everything I learned in the retail clothing business translated into the junk business.
After 25 years, I was burnt out on traveling, dressing up, customer returns, mall dictated hours, and competition from the big chains. I closed my stores. I miss my staff, (many had been with me over 20 years), but not the business.
I tried my hand at a few different jobs, including freelance design for several large corporations and I was miserable. Fall of 1999, I had a giant garage sale and realized I was back in my element. I grossed over $11,000. in a weekend and decided I had found my calling. I had vowed I would never go back to retail. I had heard about a shop in Buffalo MN, 2nd Hand Rose, that opened once a month. (Now that sounded more appealing than 7 days a week.) I was intrigued, and after standing in line to get in the front door at one of her sales, I knew she was onto something.
Within 30 days, I rented a warehouse, bought a bunch of junk...my initial investment was $5,000. and opened my doors to family and friends. I was born again! I have never regretted my decision!
My words of junk wisdom:
1. Buy a quick books program for accounting or hire a partime bookkeeper. Treat it as a business not a hobby.
2. Start small, in a existing shop, fleamarket, garage sale etc.
3. Hold on to your vision...listen, but don't let others determine your course.
4. Mantain quality and style. Your style.
5. Don't spend more money than you have...
6. Get customers emails. Let the local media know you are alive.
7. Be different. Set your self apart from other shops & sales.
8. Display. Display. Display. I believe extraordinary merchandising will make or break your success. If you feel you aren't as good as you need to be, hire someone that is. You won't be sorry.
9. Don't pay too much for inventory or price your products too low. I rarely bought anything I felt I couldn't get a 100% markup. I had to pass up some really cool stuff, but it has to be profitable. (I occassionaly bought a conversation piece or two...)
10. Buy in quantity from vendors and you will be able to get way better prices while positioning yourself for higher margins. Be kind and treat your vendors and staff with the utmost respect.
11. Invision your customer and her style and give her a name. When buying or designing product, always ask yourself, would Betty buy this? This will help you not to go off on tangents or buy too much of the wrong stuff. I love funky industrial, my customers were more conservative. I referred to my ficticious customer, Betty, quite often.
12. Be happy and love every minute! Your joy will shine through your business.I am passionate about merchandising and display and could go on and on about the business of junk. I miss having my sales. I will dabble in it again someday...when life says it is the right time. There is money to be made in junk, but more importantly it can feed the soul!
Thanks everyone for sharing your stories. I loved reading them. I wish I had junking mentors to talk to when I started in business...I would have certainly by-passed a few annoying pitfalls.
Peace,
KiAttachments
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sign_(Small).jpg (64.5 KB, 3 downloads) 4 years old
Posted 4 years ago # -
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Wow. Thank you so much for that post. It was awesome. (I'm almost crying reading it, and I don't even know why! And I'm not even a cryer!). It certainly is a passion thing. The business part can be challenging. Thanks for being a mentor to those of us who are just beginning that journey.
Midge
Posted 4 years ago # -
Thanks, Ki, for being so candid with your past and present junking habits/sales/ideas. I also want to thank you for being approachable with our ideas, goals and dreams. Junking is becoming more appealing in part due to the economy, in part due to "going green" and in part just due to "artists" like those that you attract on Junk Revolution. Thanks again for all of your help and encouragement.
Sue
Posted 4 years ago # -
Kari, glad you're back in your home now. Winter can be hell sometimes.
Ki, thank you for all your help. Love your story. I hope I can bring out the passion in the things that I sell.
Cindy (tinta)Posted 4 years ago # -
Ki, can you help me merchandise my mall space? Just joking, but that seems to be the hardest part for me. It never seems right, but other dealers come by and say it looks great. I recently heard a "retailer" make the statement "stack it high and watch it fly". So I try to bring as much up to eye level as I can, but you can't have your floor look too empty either. A Good friend, who sells lots of stuff at her booths has the philosophy to just "pack it in". She sells the most stuff, but it's mostly low dollar smalls. I don't know if she sells the most dollars, but her reports are really long of individual items.
Her booth is not asthetically pleasing, but she's got some gems in there if you are willing to look. And she's got a regular clientele, mostly other dealers.Posted 4 years ago # -
thats so interesting ki...i didnt know you were from the mall world...how different the junk world must seem to you.....we, meaning the secondary market, are so unorganized, so far flung, so un homoginized compared to the corporate life , the biggest guys at the markets might look like rough hillbillies to the unaware..you do great on one thing and never find it again.... etc etc....
i think your efforts have been great for our businesses....you have shown a glimpse of what the modern version of junk and antiques can look like....and we sure cant count on what it looked like 15 or 20 yrs ago.... ..i so agree with you on display...and wish it wasnt so...when we started we were in a barn and just threw it in... and the dealers who bought from us could see right thru the mess to the good stuff...now we are mostly retail and have to make it look as good as possible...
i still love a big messy pile tho!!
ann
www.magpiecottage.blogspot.comPosted 4 years ago # -
Ki, Thank you for your wisdom. Your advice is like perious jewels. The reson I love this site and GJ is that I can give people around here something different. I try to price things that I could afford if I walked in. And I try to display things rightly but it's all a learning process. And I'm a slowwww learner. I try to buy things that grab my atten. but that are priced usually around 5.00 and under and spice them up abit and go from there. Unless it's something I really have a feeling about. Then I may pay a bit more.Again Thank You...Would it be ok to ask you questions from time to time?...
Posted 4 years ago # -
Wow - this is like an "idea festival"! I am loving all the conversations on this amazing site -- a dialogue of mentors & colleagues....with our supreme guru, Ki, at our helm!!
Just a quick note -- I worked at the antique mall on Sunday --- steady stream of people all day, lots of sales...still seems to be a business that is doing O.K. in our economy.
Also, regarding merchandising...there seems to be a customer for each type of booth:
1. Piles (like a treasure chest)
2. Shelves with lined up stuff (in my mind very boring)
3. Displayed booths (inspiring)
What I can say is that people generally remember the displayed booths and are repeat customers.Kari
Posted 4 years ago # -
Maggie
MemberWow! So much good information! I'm in awe of all of you! I know what I like when I see it. I just don't know what to do with it.Is that something that is learned, or is it a talent that you have or not? I like rusty metal things like gears,old tools, plow points & such.
Posted 4 years ago # -
when you sell you learn so much.... you put it out on the table and the customers give their verdict.. thats really the best way to learn.... imho.
...and dont shoot yourself in the foot by pricing too high....especially when you dont know much...just go for it and make a little, and then get some more stuff and learn more as you go... every transaction gets you farther along....if you are just buying for yourself you only have to please one person!!! ann
www.magpiecottage.blogspot.comPosted 4 years ago # -
I’m feeling left out of this conversation so will jump in here. Here’s how I got started. I was a 3-day a week legal secretary and I sewed for a shop in my town. I made runners, placemats, pillows and purses. I did trash to treasure things, too, mostly wood furniture rehabbed and painted in a shabby or prim style.
With encouragement from my shop owner friend, I opened a shop across the street from her (2004). I carried a nice mix of a few antiques, my own hand made and rehabbed items and new manufactured country and prim items. “Emma’s Nook & Granny – a blend of old and new for your home.” My shop was open Thurs, Fri & Sat with occasional Sundays (I worked Mon-Wed at the law office). The shop was quite successful and a whole lot of fun, but I was now working 6 and sometimes 7 days a week. (There are pictures of my shop in the archives of my blog from June 08.)
I soon found I had no time to sew and no time to work on t2t projects. I was missing all the good auctions, fleas and estate sales as they are usually on weekends. More importantly, I was missing out on a whole lot of family events. After 2 years I quit the law office job but didn’t expand my shop hours. I had more time off but my weekends were still tied up. About a year ago, my DH (who had been retired for quite a while) was growing tired of me not having weekends free and I knew we were missing out on too many things. Then, in May of last year, he had a heart attack and triple bypass surgery. It didn’t take me long to decide to give up the shop and I closed last year in early July. Priorities.
Now I sell on consignment in two shops in my town. One is open weekends year round. The other is open 4-6 consecutive weekends 3 times a year – her version of “occasional.” This gal has been doing these sales for over 15 years. She has done very well, has a huge following and has made her shop very special because it is only open 3 times a year. I do well at that one and okay at the other (I’m not sure if that one will make it). I don’t have a room or a booth at either. They do all the set up and take a percentage.
I also sold at spring and fall barn sales last year in two other locations, plus I did the Junk Bonanza last September. I did really well at all 3 of those. What I miss about my own shop is the decorating and display and contact with the customers. I would love to have my own booth in a shop within reasonable driving distance of home. That’s what I am looking for right now.
So that’s my story, morning glory. :)
I love a good junk shop where I have to dig through dusty, musty piles. But in a mall setting with different vendor booths, I think merchandising and display makes a world of difference in sales dollars. There you need to stand out from the crowd. In my shop I tried to make vignettes to show people how to use things in their homes, mixing old with new. I think you need to use all your space from floor to ceiling (well, as high as makes sense), but rearrange and move things around frequently because people just don’t see everything and will think something is new when moved to a different spot.
Posted 4 years ago # -
Maggie i'm with you...I see things that I know would make something good, buttttt...My sister is the master at these things. She was born with it where I'm trying to learn it...She can make a horse turd beautiful...She has had her hands full this past yr with family problems, but said she was going to try and help me this yr.
Anne thank you for your wisdom as well....I am going to make it to your shop I hope some weekend maybe this spring...
Marge what a great story....I hope your DH is doing better...Those things do help you see differently. When dad had several massive strokes in 96 and we took care of him at home for 5 1/2 yrs i seen things very different too about life....Posted 4 years ago # -
I love the horse turd comment. I believe you can learn enough to amaze people...even if you weren't born with it. I have the worst singing voice on the planet, but I am convinced with a tutor and practice I could be an okay singer. Maybe not quite American Idol material...
The best advice as Marge said, is to not over commit yourself so you don't have time for family and friends. And there is that junking thing. If you are sitting in the shop, you can't be digging through the piles of junk at an auction, garage sale or flea market. You don't want to miss all that fun!
Margo, my pratical, rule of thumb merchandising tips are as follows. I am sure folks already know most of these things, but I am throwing them out there. Merchandising is my favorite part of the job, so I might just come help you when I am in Texas!
1. Before you buy..make a seasonal plan. Don't be caught with snow shoes in your booth in March. Watch Pottery Barn or Target for clues on seasonsal releases. It may mean you will have to put the leftover garden tools away for a season or two.
2. If your booth is small, stay with one style ie cottage, country, romantic, kitschy, etc. If it is larger you can do several looks if they are distinctly seperated. Note you can squeeze a little modern or industrial in with most looks.
3. Plan and stick to a color scheme for the month or season. Again if your booth is larger you can go with several color schemes if you seperate them. You can also get some hints from the magazines and catalogues on color trending for the season. I like to find a wonderful vintage fabric and work around that.
4. Promote holidays and seasonal themes. Even if it isn't holiday product you are selling, show folks how to use it for the holidays, particulary entertaining and decorating. Free ideas sell product.
5. Narrow and deep. But quantities of smalls and show in mass. Buckets of salt and pepper shakers are so much more appealing than just one set on a shelf. Show folks how to use the shakers...in different ways and promote that they purchase not just 2 but 8 to decorate their spring Easter brunch table.
6. If you have enough room, do one major display table in center of your booth. This will set the mood for your area. Always put something on the table with height. An old chair, small tree in a pot, a bench, an umbrella. This should be the focal point of your booth.
7. Never put smaller products or buckets on the floor! Raise them up a minimum of 6" to 12". Customers don't spend as much time browsing products that they have to stoop for. I like to use stackable potato crates so that I can display buckets of products at different heights. This works great under tables and beside cabinets. (I try to fill buckets that contained breakables with natural colored excelsior. You can pick up at most packing or floral supply places) Use chairs, benches, stools, crates to raise your buckets, crates, boxes and drawers with stuff in them.
8. Remember if you display lots of smaller items on your big pieces,your big pieces may not sell from underneath. I always found particularly coffee tables would go unnoticed if I piled them with too much stuff. By clearing off and throwing some magazines and a hurricane on folks can invision it in their family room.
9. If it isn't selling, don't panic. First move it somewhere else in the booth. Give it another purpose. Highlight it in a display. Give it a lower price with a new sticker (not a markdown sticker) If the lower price doesn't work...have a sale tub or shelf. If it truly is a piece of junk, paint it, redesign it, or chop it up and put it in your junk pieces pile. (Warning, never destroy something of value, you will regret it someday.)
10. Signs. Use them! Make sure all your signs coordinate and are well done. If you have lousy handwriting like me, print them on the computer. Use signs to let customers know the history and give them ideas how to use your products.
Wow...Sorry for blabbing. I'll check my photo archive and see if I can come up with some examples.
Oh, I forgot one thing...pricepoints...have them all! $1. to $1,000. Know your area and customer. I found $35.-$75. was the hot ticket for the JunkMarket. I was sure to have the majority of products in that range.
Peace,
KiPosted 4 years ago # -
Here are some pics of JunkMarket sales and some of the ideas I mentioned above in my comments.
Peace,
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Posted 4 years ago # -
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Oh Ki I love it...
Posted 4 years ago # -
Maggie
MemberKi, thank you for all the info & pics! You have some great displays! Please blab all you want!! LOL!!
Posted 4 years ago # -
Laurie -Primstop- are you from Omaha Ne?! I'm from 70 miles from there! Please post your site.
I started selling on etsy a few months ago and for now that's it for me but someday would like a booth somewhere!
This is great info!Posted 4 years ago # -
ki, wow, love seeing the display pictures....and your list relates to my store so well....good good reminders...
do you just limit to 100 vendors? i would like to see 1000!!! lol... i would love to see the show...have heard its beautiful.... but too far for me....ann
www.magpiecottage.blogspot.comPosted 4 years ago # -
Wow, What a lot of great information. I printed it out, and my head is spinning already, about how to change some stuff up. Thank you so much for your wisdom. You should write a book on the subject.
MargoPosted 4 years ago # -
KI.
Loved the pictures!! I wish I could collect that much for a show. Of, course my shop is so tiny it wouldn't hold that much! Ask, Cammy, she's seen it. It's only 400+ sq. feet! I would love to do the Junk Bonanza. With my school job and doing a Fall Show at the shop it would be pretty tough for me to have that much time off. I can dream though! and still am considering it! With the Jaunk Jaunt here in NE which I have never done either. I just don't see how I can work in September!!I also had some questions to any of you gals that have done the Bonanza. I know most people don't like to give a dollar amount of what they did at shows. But, I was just wondering how sales were. ??? If we did the show it would mean 4 or 5 nights at a hotel, gas for a seven hour drive, cost of the booth etc. We would have to rent a trailer also. So, just was wondering if the pay off out ways the cost.
I know it would just in excitement of being there and going shopping!!! but... there are those things called "BILLS" that come every month! I appreciate any info. or advice about the Junk Bonanza! Thanks!!
LauriePosted 4 years ago # -
Jillruth- My shop is in Elkhorn or West "O" (Omaha) Our town was annexed by Omaha but, we still go by the Elkhorn name. You can go to my site at to see pic's of the store.(look at my member info and it has my web address. When I try and write it in my post it won't go through.???) I haven't set my show dates as of yet. Always hard to do. I'm afraid a good show will come up somewhere and I'll be tied to my show! I also work full time with special needs kiddo's so, I have to think about my school schedule. I hope to have my dates posted this week. Also, am thinking of having a "mini" one day show... "A Fix for your Cabin Fever". Just haven't quite gotten the motivation in our cold weather to get things pulled together! The shop is still decorated with Christmas! Keep an eye on my site to see what's comin' up. Hope to meet you some time!
Laurie
P.S. how does etsy do for you?Posted 4 years ago # -
I appreciate the questions raised by Laurie regarding the Junk Bonanza...perhaps we should begin a new subject on that?!?
KariPosted 4 years ago # -
Just checking to see if it's working...
Posted 4 years ago # -
The photos I posted earlier were actually of the JunkMarket sales a few years back when we owned and displayed all our own product. It was quite an undertaking as we had a 7,000 square ft warehouse to fill. Things are much simpler with the Bonanza, but I do miss making all the great buys and spending my hours arranging displays.
Folks can do extremely well at the Bonanza. If vendors bring the right product and have enough backstock it is a very profitable show even for out-of-towners. The majority of our out state vendors are coming back this year. I suspect we will be full in the next few months based on sign ups so far. We cut if off at 100 vendors to make sure everyone has a chance to do well. We are excited about our new location and will update the website as we make plans.
Email Jane Hall (on the Bonanza site) for more specific info.
Peace,
KiPosted 4 years ago # -
Do you buy things and sell them as you bought them or do you change them a bit to make something a bit different with them?
Posted 4 years ago # -
Leveta...I am a fairly good "gatherer" - but not so creative in repurposing an item to sell. So, I buy and sell - trying to move my items into my booth soon after I buy them. However, my one exception is that I do remove and store seasonal & holiday items from year to year---priced and ready to go when I take them out the next year. I keep rubbermade tubs labeled for each season in my basement for ease of finding & storing.
I am also fortunate to have a barn - so I keep an area for larger items...price tags made up and ready to go. I then "shop" this area as I head to the booth - will take these items in as bigger items sell in my booth. I also may store an item here for the right season -- for instance I currently have a sweet patio/porch table waiting to anchor my spring display.
Kari
Posted 4 years ago # -
Thanks Kari, People areound here I don't think ever seen junk creations. I was doing a tri screen in victoian colors and DH was storing in over head in my shop and dropped it and the end broke(along with my heart). I hope it can be fixed. Some of the slats came out. This spring I will get it back out and look at the damage. I have some people around me that do have a creative touch, so I try to get them to look at things and see waht thoughts they may have. I like to barter their services for maybe something i have that they may like. I'm learning but still have a long way to go. I'm the only person around here that has a shop like i have. And I so want it to be a get experiance for those who come. But i'm seasonal so I have all yr to get things together...
Posted 4 years ago # -
lovecrafting
MemberLeveta-Are you in NW Arkansas? Just wondering as we were caught in the ice storm here last week and had no power for almost a week.
Posted 4 years ago # -
lovecrafting no i'm in ky. between lousiville and owensboro. I have a cousin that lives in ark and they got caught in the ice storm also...
Posted 4 years ago # -
I posted on this thread earlier about how difficult it has been for me to get exposure for my business. Happily, today I got some very exciting news in that area. A reporter from our local paper (circulation 185,000) wants to do a feature story for the front page of the Sunday Home & Garden section all about my business. She said the staff loved what I'm doing with junk and especially that I'm trying to get others involved by holding classes, and they want to help me get the word out. She's coming to my shop next week with a photographer. It's very exciting, but kind of scary, too. (translation = I'm kinda freaking out!). But this is the chance I've been waiting for. Oh, Boy.
Midge
Posted 4 years ago # -
Midge that's wonderful and exciting! If they have an online version I hope you'll post the link when the article is published. What a great chance for you to get your name out there. I'd be nervous too - but no doubt you'll do great - enjoy it!
Posted 4 years ago # -
Midge! Super exciting news. Would that be the GR Press? Please let us know when it'll be in the paper and I'll run out and buy one. Let's plan a GW Friday soon and maybe I can take a look at your shop and get more inspired! I am so happy for you ~ Giddy, in fact! Congratulations. Sue
Posted 4 years ago # -
Midge...How wonderful - good for you! Once word gets out - look out!!
On a separate note - we have seen a huge surge in antique business this month. One mall in Wisconsin had the largest retail day in their 25 year history in early February. If you hunt & gather - they will come!
Kari
Posted 4 years ago # -
OH HOW WONDERFUL Midge....I am so happy for you...
Posted 4 years ago # -
lovecrafting
MemberCONGRATULATIONS!!!
Posted 4 years ago # -
All you guys -- Thanks for your encouraging words, I needed them! The reporter called yesterday and moved the interview back one week, the timing actually is better than the original. So I am calmed down a bit and focusing on figuring out what I need to do to make the most of this opportunity. I'm also working on shooing away all the self-doubt that keeps creeping in -- that's a tougher assignment for me.
Sue -- Yes, it is the G.R. Press and I think the plan is for March 15. I will definitely let you know. And I would LOVE to plan a workshop Friday. The next two Fridays aren't good, but after that I'm ready to roll.
MidgePosted 4 years ago # -
gigi
Memberso happy for you!! just use those calming mantra's like "uhhmmm....amennnn" :)
might do you well to take a gander at the tips that Ki left for setting up displays and booths to maximize your visual impact...couldn't hurt? forget which post it was but very recently she left it.
^j^ here's some good luck ^j^ angels ^j^ for you!!!
Posted 4 years ago # -
Midge ~ that's good that you get to breathe a little bit before the interview and figure out what you are going to feature. How fun and exciting!
If you are busy the next two Fridays, that puts us at Friday, March 13 which would work fine for me. Do you have any interest in going to the GW early and then on to your place? Or, I could go to your place first and to the GW...Let me know what you think. Thanks so much for the offer ~ I can't wait to meet you and check out your shop! Sue
Posted 4 years ago # -
LuAnn
MemberMidge--way to go!!! How about posting a link to the paper so we all can read too!!!
LuAnn
Posted 4 years ago # -
here,here...I second that....
Posted 4 years ago # -
csudderth
MemberCongratulations--that is so exciting. Be sure and let us know when it come out. Hopefully they'll have it where we can read it online.
ChristyPosted 4 years ago # -
Midge,
Yahoo! You are on your way! Exposure is priceless! There is absolutely no reason to be nervous. Remember, they picked you for a reason! You are talented and have a story to tell.Don't feel obligated to share anything you don't feel comfortable talking about. Be sure they include all the details you want folks to know. You may want to offer the reporter a cheat sheet with basic facts. It is helpful to know before hand what direction the reporter wants to go with the story, repurposing, green, teaching etc. That way you can set displays accordingly.
This is such exciting news! I can't wait to read the article. Be sure to let us know how to find it online!
Congratulations! Take a deep breath and enjoy the limelight!
Peace,
KiPosted 4 years ago # -
Sue -- I think the 13th should work, just a VERY slim chance a got something going that day, but let's tentatively plan on it. Let's go to the GW first in case we find something to work with. If we come up empty-handed there's plenty of treasures at my shop we can play with, or bring some of your own stuff with you and we'll see what happens. There's a very hometown restaurant near my shop (Rainbow Grille) and of course there's a Russ' in Grandville where we could break for lunch. We'll stay in touch and work out the details later.
Gigi -- you are too funny! I definitely will review those posts. Display and presentation IS my weakest area, (it's like you already knew). And I feel as though there already are angels watching over me, but thank you for sending me more. I can use all I can get.
Luv, Kari, Leveta, Love, LuAnn, & Christy -- I believe that the article will be published March 15 and that there is an online edition I can link. I will certainly let you know. THANK YOU all for your kind words.
Ki -- Thank you SO MUCH for your words of wisdom. They mean more than you know and I will certainly take them to heart. Right now I see myself more as "just a mom" than a "Captain of Industry". But maybe the truth is that I'm somewhere in between, and still learning. You played a big part (even though you didn't know it) in me starting down this junking road I'm on, and I thank you for that, too.
Peace out -- Midge
Posted 4 years ago # -
Midge ~ great, sounds like a plan. Just let me know if the other possibility becomes a reality and we can move the date. Lunch at the Rainbow sounds charming - who doesn't like the hometown eating?! I'll probably bring some of my junk with the hopes of also finding something from the Goodwill! I'm so excited that I can hardly wait!
Posted 4 years ago # -
Well, Sunday's edition of the Grand Rapids Press ran the article highlighting my business on the front page of the Home & Garden section. I'm glad it's finally out because it was making me kind of anxious. I was afraid to look. People at church were saying it was good and I should check it out. So finally about 3:30 I dared peek. I was pleased with it. Not too many pictures of me. Several pictures of my stuff on the front page. The picture of me I didn't like was on the following page and on the online version. I think the reporter did a good job of capturing what I do. Time will tell what difference it makes for drawing people in for classes and sales. If anyone is interested in seeing the online version the link is
mlive.com/homeandgarden/index.ssf/2009/03/hudsonville_junker_finds_new_u.htmlOr just go to mlive.com choose the GR Press, and the Home & garden.
Sorry I don't know how to link it.
midgePosted 4 years ago # -
gigi
Memberwow, i am so proud...you are just amazing lady!! :)
great article, great pictures, too!!
i am in awe of your knowledge of tools and all and anyone who takes your classes will be better off for it!!Posted 4 years ago # -
Midge - how awesome. The article was super - although brief! We want more - we want more- we want more! Really, the article was super and did give you some exposure. Hopefully people will be lined up to take your classes now and lined up around the building for your sale next month. Congratulations and thank you for making us "junkers" look so good!
I'd still like to get up there some time in the near future. Next Friday I'm out of town, but the next few Fridays after that are wide open right now.
Sue
Posted 4 years ago # -
Gigi and Sue, Thanks for the kind words.
Wordwise, the online and print versions were exactly the same. But the print version had quite a few more photos, so I took a picture of the print version (badly) to get a better idea of what it looked like.
MidgeAttachments
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Posted 4 years ago # -
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Oh, thanks Midge - there's your record bird house too! The boot birdhouse looks cool too! Thanks for posting the actual print version!
Posted 4 years ago # -
OH I was so excited just reading it...I wish you lived around here I'd be there taking your classes...Great articule I wish you many blessed classes and and a unending trail of junkers....
Posted 4 years ago # -
What a great honor! It pays to be creative. Congratulations! Jan
Posted 4 years ago # -
Midge:
Congratulations to you...may many find their way to your door!
KariPosted 4 years ago # -
The article was wonderful Midge! I'm so glad you shared, and like those before me, I hope this will bring you an outpouring of students and customers. I enjoy your blog and website - keep up the good work!
Posted 4 years ago # -
A great job on the article, Midge. You're a celebrity now!!! You better be ready, cuz they'll be knocking down your door to buy you 'junk'. (lol)
Cindy (tinta)Posted 4 years ago # -
csudderth
MemberGreat article Midge--I'm so excited for you! You had a vision and now it is coming true. I'm sure your classes will be a big hit. Congratulations!
ChristyPosted 4 years ago # -
Wow! Nice article and great exposure for your business. Congrats!
Posted 4 years ago # -
Congratulations Midge!!! Great Article - great work featured!!! :-)
Posted 4 years ago # -
SecondHandRosie
MemberWell, how neat! I just now started scrolling down this post and it was like reading an exciting book! I couldn't wait to get to see how it all ended. Sounds to me like it's just beginning for you. Congratulations on the exposure and a step-up in the Junking Business!
Posted 4 years ago # -
SecondHandRosie -- Thanks so much. It HAS been very exciting. I just posted under "Anything good today" about something that was a direct result of the article. My next sale is next weekend, that is when I can better gauge how helpful it was. Also, at the end of May is the annual "Parade of Homes". A builder has called me about staging his Parade home with some of my things, so that will be very exciting too. We'll have to see where it all leads. I realize I'm very blessed to be able to do this as my full time profession and I hope I can continue to do so.
Thank you also to Leveta, Jan, Kari, Luv, Cindy, Christy, Marge, and Redneck for your words of encouragement. It's nice to be surrounded by such a great group of junker friends who "get" it.
MidgePosted 4 years ago # -
Midge...staging a parade home - how cool is that, please post pictures!!
KariPosted 4 years ago # -
Midge it looks like your on your way girl...I am so excited for you....Can't wait to see what new roads open up for you....
Posted 4 years ago # -
Congrats! I'm sure there will be many more opportunities for you to share your talents with the world! Enjoy the journey! Great article!
Peace,
KiPosted 4 years ago # -
Midge - I second the pictures request!!! Parade homes are SO fun to walk through - and yours is just going to be great!!! Don't forget your camera! :-)
Posted 4 years ago # -
Midge, wow, to STAGE a Parade of Homes house sounds like a great experience and more publicity. We are so PROUD of you! I was thinking of coming up to your sale next weekend if I can squeeze it in. I'll get the times from your website, but if you have a suggestion on which day is best, please let me know. Thanks, Sue
Posted 4 years ago # -
gigi
Membersomeone just staged F-I-L's home for that parade where i live....i didn't go and look but have a question.....
i realize the promoter has knowledge of who did the work of staging but will you get to post your info somewhere in the home so lookers know that it was you who did it, midge?
if so....that would be even more publicity out there.
Posted 4 years ago # -
It's still in the formation stages, so it's not 100% on yet. I had compiled a list of E-mail addresses for builders from previous parades -- I love to go and I save the books. So I sent a blanket e-mail suggesting builders looking for unique items for their parade could give me a call, and of course, subtley mentioning the Press feature. One called back immediately but I was already gone. He left a message saying he wanted me to stage his parade home. He is a developer of midrange homes. My hope is that he has a decorator (I am not one!) and that person would place some of my things in the home -- with tags on them. I imagine I'll be able to leave business cards and possibly flyers. I doubt it will mean more press, but it will mean direct exposure for all who visit. Like I said, nothing's definite yet, but I'm hopeful.
MidgePosted 4 years ago # -
Well, I got to see Junkermidge's "Booth" or studio today and it is awesome! We spent the day together junking and we had a ball. I can't wait to go back and I can't wait to get to work on some more of my projects because of all of the inspiration that Midge gave me today. Thank you Midge!
Sue
Posted 4 years ago # -
Thanks Sue, I really had fun too! I look forward to next time when we can get serious in the workshop and crank out some cool stuff.
MidgePosted 4 years ago # -
I just rented my first space in an antique store/flea market in a town about 20 miles from me. Woohoo!! We'll see... To be honest, I don't know what I will consider "successful" in this venture. I love reading everyone's ideas, stories, suggestions, and tips here.
Posted 3 years ago # -
tricia
MemberWow, what a wealth of information! I'll flag this page for further study.
Posted 3 years ago # -
YAY Jill!!!!!!!!!!!!! You will have to keep us posted on how it goes - and I wanna see pics!!!! Congratulations!!!
Posted 3 years ago # -
Good luck Jill with the booth! Keep us posted on how things go for you. Jan
Posted 3 years ago # -
Gypsyqueen
MemberThanks Ki for the advice. I had a booth in Caddo Mills and I did very well. The new mangement pushed me out. Got too cluttered and things got lost. I want to start my own store so I have the control of the way things look, but the rent is so high every where. That has vbeen a dream for years. Everyone says I should.
Posted 3 years ago # -
tricia
Memberdo any of you do trunk shows?They are popular around here, clubs are looking for programs and pay modest speaking fees? I've seen one on quilts and another on vintage clothing. The presenter interweaves stories.
Posted 3 years ago # -
That sounds neat...Someone was talking about having one a month or so ago,but never heard how it went...
Posted 3 years ago # -
Speaking of getting started...this will be my first year with a booth at Junk Bonanza...anyone out there that has attended want to offer some advice?
I have never had a shop, either, but have sold out of my garage and now have a little shed in my yard that I sell from. I would be too afraid to open my own shop -- kudos to those of you that have taken the leap!!
Posted 3 years ago # -
Take a deep breath and jump right in and take the leap....sounds like you are a knack for it with your past selling experiences. I wish I was closer to attend Junk Bonanza....good luck with it and be sure to share pictures with us so we can drool ! Thanks! Jan
Posted 3 years ago # -
Welcome The Famers Wife and congrats on your booth a JB...
Posted 3 years ago # -
Welcome the Farmer's Wife (hey I am one too!) I'd love to go to junk bonanza!
My booth is filling up and I'll share pics soon. My space though is small- mostly shelves so any big items I have go into the "open space" at the mall. I can't create the vignettes like you all do in your booths. I'm getting over whining about it because this is what is available to me so I'll try to make the most of it.Posted 3 years ago # -
SecondHandRosie
MemberJillruth, your booth sounds like the exact same configuration as mine. It's fine for smalls, but reallly crowded for larger items.
No vignettes, either, unless you consider me occasionally sticking a ladder across the top shelves for linens, etc.Posted 3 years ago # -
weirde
MemberI would like to get more serious on my "junking" projects but I am very restricted in my work space--since I live in a townhome. Do any of you share a workshop space with fellow junkers or have a common studio that you rent to store and repurpose them? And if so pros and cons of doing it....Do you know of anyone that lives in the Twin Cities that would be willing to share space for a minimal amount of rent? Thanks for any imput you may have! I absolutely thrive on all of your experienced advice!
Posted 3 years ago # -
Welcome weirde...I have my own space, my DH's space, my bedroom space and my mom's building space. I have things everywhere...But do things in my shop or on my front porch...
Posted 3 years ago # -
cowpalace
MemberI had my first booth in Louisville, Kentucky many, many years ago. Closed it when we moved back to Texas. When we moved to our ranch nine years ago, I rented a booth in Florence, Texas. Sadly that antique shop closed. Just rented another booth in Killeen, Texas, at Paply's Antiques and Collectibles. I'm having a blast keeping it stocked and making things to add to the collection of furniture and collectibles that I have displayed. Currently I'm trying to work with a 'theme' each month. For June, it's everything wedding. For July it will be flags/red, white, and blue...that sort of thing.
Posted 3 years ago # -
Cowpalace I live about 90 miles from Lousiville. Your both sounds really great...
Posted 3 years ago # -
Hey cowpalace - you're in my neighborhood! i'm going to have to come visit and admire your booth - it sounds fun!!!
:-)
Posted 3 years ago # -
Beware cowpalace - our redneckChic comes armed with duct tape!
Sue
Posted 3 years ago # -
cowpalace
MemberDuct tape doesn't scare me. That, along with a piece of baling wire, and I can fix anything! Y'all come on over to Paply's in Killeen. I think you'll be pleased with the prices you'll find in ALL the booths!
Leveta, I loved Louisville. We lived there six years, before transferring to Oklahoma, then later back home to Texas.
Posted 3 years ago # -
*giggle* bailing wire and duct tape...isn't that what all chevys run on?
oh sue - i think you should come too!!!
Posted 3 years ago # -
Well, I'd love to but Michigan is a little jaunt away! :(
Posted 3 years ago # -
nah.....well, maybe, but......just think how much fun it would be!!!
Posted 3 years ago # -
I need to mark this to read...
Posted 3 years ago # -
I need to mark this to read...
Posted 3 years ago #
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