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Just when I thought I was moving forward with my little Etsy shop, buying and selling delightful tabletop finds - up pops an opportunity for a brick-and-mortar "antique booth" in a town that is VERY well known for their monthly trade days.
Big Mistake.
I simply wasn't ready. I thought that all I had to do was make beautiful displays and post a couple of videos on my Instagram, and boom! customers would flock to my shop. I didn't do my homework. I've been in it for a few months now and, if it weren't for my online presence, I'd be in a huge hole. I thought I had everything priced well, but then browsers pick up a $5 item and put it right back on the table. A customer actually bargained on a $20 item. $20...
I over-bought on space. I thought, "I have enough to fill up a bigger space," so I leased a bigger (i.e., more expensive) space. It's still full of the things I put in it on day one. The only items I've had to replace are the ones I sold online. Epic fail.
I know I sound jaded. Tons of folks are out there making good money and enjoying their "booth" experiences. They were smart - or they've had more time to learn from their errors.
But now I see that the landscape has changed considerably for us small-business owners, and honestly, online is the place to be for vintage home goods like tableware, barware, and textiles. - which is what we do best here at Redux Vintage. SEO has made it easy for clients and potential clients to zoom in on the items that interest them most. And good, honest photography lets you examine before you buy. (AI notwithstanding, caveat emptor.) Add to that a responsive seller you trust, and you've got yourself a winning combination that, truth be told, doesn't really need the IRL space.
All that to say this: I still believe that folks need vintage and antiques in their lives. We're surrounded with disposable things that last about two seconds, aren't particularly attractive, and hold no special place in our hearts. We need curated vintage pieces to remind us we're not alone in our journey through time. These things help us express our individuality, welcome guests, explain the past, and - as heirlooms - look to our futures.
I think I will find myself at an antique mall or trade days booth in my future, but it will take more time and study to find just the right space to complement my online shop. I the meantime, you can find me - and my collection of vintage and antique homegoods - right here.
Cheers!
Jill @ Redux Vintage Boutique