Saturday, April 30, 2011

Choosing The Location Of Your Antique Booth In An Antique Mall: Be Unique And Easy To Remember

How To Choose An Antique Booth In An Antique Mall

The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, Connecticut is a dynamic place where change is always part of their business formula. As both a booth renter and shopper in this 22,000 square feet Antique Mall, I love showing up to Collinsville and discovering the latest improvement or newest dealer.

Change In An Antique Mall Is Good For Business


All this moving and shaking is good for business. It keeps the place from getting stagnant, stale, boring. My own booth has even moved from the back of the store to what could be considered the front. In either case, whether you say I was in the back corner or now the front corner, I had distinctive spots that people could easily remember where I was located. I wasn't buried or lost in any of the aisles.

Choose An Antique Booth Than Visitors Will Remember

This is an important concept for new dealers to keep in mind when you are renting a booth in an Antique Mall. Be sure that your placement will be located somewhere where a visitor will easily remember how to return to you when they visit again. You need not have the best spot, but you should have a unique spot. For example, easy booth spots to recall are those next to or near landmarks such as the "bathroom", "front desk", "book corner", "back door", "steps" etc.

I think you are catching on to what I am trying to explain in this post. Choose a well lighted space in a distinctive location that will help your customers return to you regularly.

C. Dianne Zweig
is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café.To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.comVisit my website, CDianneZweig.comDianne is a member of:The American Society of Journalists and AuthorsThe Society of Professional Journalists

Thursday, April 28, 2011

Farmington Valley Arts Center "Sentiments for Mothers" Exhibition And Mothers Day Gift Sale, Avon, CT., Opens Friday, April 29th, 2011

Handcrafted Mothers Day Gifts Featured At "Sentiments for Mothers Exhibit": Farmington Valley Art Center, Avon, CT

The Farmington Valley Arts Center is buzzing with excitement with the opening of the "Sentiments for Mothers" exhibit which begins with an opening reception , Friday evening, April 29th from 6-9 pm in the Esther B. Drezner Gallery. The show continues through May 9th, 2011. Gallery hours: Wednesday - Saturday, 12:00-4:00pm , Additional hours by appointment: 860.678.1867

Artisan Crafted Mother's Day Gifts

The gallery is packed with wonderful artisan crafted items which are very fairly priced to purchase as Mother's Day gifts.

Original Pottery, Jewelry, Glassware, Mixed Media, Textiles

You will find one of a kind handcrafted pottery, jewelry, artwork, handbags, scarves, textiles, glassware, mixed media cards, photographs. The work is outstanding and represents a variety of regional artists as well as in house artists who have studios at the Center or who are on faculty.

"Sentiments For Mother" Is A FVAC Fundraiser

The Mother's Day exhibition titled "Sentiments For Mothers" is a fundraiser for the Farmington Valley Art Center. Many of the resident artists have donated small works for this special exhibit and sale.

Making Your Own Mother's Day Gifts

If you would like to create your own Mother's day gift, the Center is hosting two gift making workshops . Robin McCahill will teach a workshop on hand-felted scarf making on May 7th from 11 am to 2:30 pm. Fee is $35.00 plus a $15.00 materials fee. On May 8th, 2011, Deb Wadsworth and Heather Whitehouse will help you design and create Monoprint collages from noon to 3:00 pm. Fee is $80.00 plus a $20.00 material fee.

Where Is The Farmington Valley Art Center
Directions

The Farmington Valley Art Center, 25 Art Center Lane, is located just off Route 44 in Avon, Connecticut in a park like setting on the Ensign Bickford grounds. Visitors will find a two level complex with 25 resident studio artists, two exhibition galleries and designated classrooms for ongoing adult, teen and children's classes and workshops. Directions
Gallery hours: Wednesday - Saturday, 12:00-4:00pm
Additional hours by appointment: 860.678.1867
Studio Artists Information
Complete List of Studio Artists
2A Pottery Spectrum
Ginny August
Betsy Gardiner
4A Melissa Croghan
5A Harriet Winograd
6A Studio Available
7A Artist in Residence
8A Kathy Goff
9A Fran Hoffnagle
10A I.S. Levitz
11A Jim Brunelle
1B Candace Abbott
Annette Baser
2B Claire Fish
3B Robin
4B Susan Patla Brereton
5B Deb Wadsworth
Avis Turner
6B Danielle Langford
7B Melissa Meredith
8B Bob Noreika
9B Dianne Zweig
10B Mihaly Portrait
Design
Kevin Mihaly
11B The Chair Clinic
Jan Bennett
Farmington Valley Arts Center
25 Arts Center Lane
Avon, CT 06001

860-678-1867

C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café.To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.comVisit my website, CDianneZweig.comDianne is a member of:The American Society of Journalists and AuthorsThe Society of Professional Journalists

Sunday, April 24, 2011

Memories Of Making Paper Plate Easter Bonnets: When It Was Still Kosher To Use Paper

Celebrating The Easter Holiday: Confessions Of A Paper Plate Addict
I confess, it is Easter and as someone who celebrates Passover, the closest I ever got to celebrating the rebirth of Christ was participating in the annual Easter parade at P.S. 26 in Fresh Meadows, New York. Making handmade Easter bonnets using paper plates adorned with colored tissue or crepe paper was an activity at my school which rated almost as high as the Maypole dance . Those were the days...they were.

Mastering The Art Of Paper Easter Bonnets


As I went through the early grades, I began to master the art of paper roses and my hats became more and more glamorous. If you have had a chance to read my second book, "Hot Cottage Collectibles For Vintage Style Homes", you will read about my love affair with paper plates, especially the cheap ones with ruffled edges.

Are The Days Of Paper Are Coming To An End?

Paper products were a staple in my home because dad owned a luncheonette and he kept our childhood home stocked with disposables. Paper is a family tradition which brings back warm memories before it was politically incorrect and environmentally stupid to keep using paper.

Secret Paper User

Gosh.......if you use paper plates in your home these days, you could get in trouble with a few goody two-shoes neighbors or relatives. I have become a secret paper user, taking out the pulp when I am assured that critical visitors will not report me to the paper police.

Top image courtesy of http://vintLinkagesavoirfaire.com/
C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café.To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.comVisit my website, CDianneZweig.comDianne is a member of:The American Society of Journalists and AuthorsThe Society of Professional Journalists

Saturday, April 23, 2011

Using A Vintage Quilted Lingerie Tray To Display Small Collectibles In Your Antique Booth

Re-Purposing A Vintage Lingerie And Stocking Organizer

You have seen plenty of these quilted satin Lingerie Trays for sale which were originally sold for women to use as lingerie and stocking organizers. These days, I really do not see these lovely vanity collectibles flying out the door of any shops. But that doesn't mean we can't make use out of them in our displays.

Use The Compartments To Hold And Display Your "Smalls"

So what shall we do with these practical products of yesteryear? Don;t hide them in your booth. USE them in a new way. Consider displaying your "smalls" in the divided compartments . Costume jewelery, sewing notions, trinkets, medals etc will work well tucked into the sections.

C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café.To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.comVisit my website, CDianneZweig.comDianne is a member of:The American Society of Journalists and AuthorsThe Society of Professional Journalists

Displaying Your Antiques And Collectibles In The Right Spot ?

Decorating Your Antique Booth: Where is The Good "Karma" ?

If you have been an antique dealer for a long time, you know that certain sections of your antique booth seem to do better than others. Some areas of your antique booth or shop get better light or exposure while other sections seem to get lost. But good lighting and visibility while helpful is does not guarantee that a particular display area will work out well. You need to factor in the issue of "karma".

How "Karma" Plays A Role In How Much You Sell

Don't kid yourself, some spots in your booth or mall have better "karma" than others. A case in point for me (no pun intended). I have this GREAT 1950s white metal kitchen cabinet that makes a wonderful funky retro display shelving unit.

Some Areas in Your Antique Booth Work Better Than Others

BUT things never sell out of it? I have no idea why? I love this cabinet because it is narrow, easy to move around and sets the retro mood in my booth. The problem is.....no matter where I place it or what I put on the shelves of this retro cabinet, nothing seems to sell off of it. It just seems to have bad "karma".

Displaying Collectibles On A Handmade Potting Table

In a less prominent spot in my booth is a darling soft green painted hand made garden potting table which I display vintage kitchen housewares or cottage style collectibles. The "karma" on this potting table is much better than that which surrounds my retro 1950s kitchen cabinet. The same kitchen collectible which is displayed in the metal cabinet will sell when it gets moved to the potting table .....go figure?

The moral of the story is that you should always move around the objects in your antique booth and learn where the best "karma" is!

Photos taken at my shop "Kitsch n Stuff" which is part of The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT.

C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café.To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.comVisit my website, CDianneZweig.comDianne is a member of:The American Society of Journalists and AuthorsThe Society of Professional Journalists

Add Some Red To Your Pink And Yellow Vintage Kitchen Displays In Your Antique Shop Or Home

Decorating Your Antique Booth With Pink And Yellow Kitchen Collectibles And A Touch Of RED

I have always adored pink and yellow vintage kitchen collectibles. But when you are decorating your home kitchen or organizing your antique booth with these sweet colors, you really do need to add a third color to your mix or your displays will become sleepy.

Pink And Yellow Vintage Kitchenwares

While I was re-doing my antique booth for Spring, I selected out my yellow and pink collectibles and began setting them down on the Hoosier cabinet I use for display. I just couldn't get the look I wanted. I always step away from my booth and look at it from a distance to see how the public will see my booth from the aisle.

Add A Touch of RED to Your Antique Booth Displays

This time, the pink and yellow vintage kitchen collectibles were simply getting lost. So I took a bold step and adding some additional kitchenwares that included RED and GREEN. Now, originally I did not want to add a primary colors because I was in a pastel mode. But drastic measures were called for and I really needed to wake up my display which was getting too soft and safe.

C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café.To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.comVisit my website, CDianneZweig.comDianne is a member of:The American Society of Journalists and AuthorsThe Society of Professional Journalists

Monday, April 18, 2011

Cooking A Tradtional Passover Brisket: It's A Love-Hate Relationship

Preparing Brisket For Passover: Tips From The Kitschy Collector

I have a love-hate relationship with Brisket. When I am an invited guest to a home that serves a delicious Brisket, I am in heaven. But when the tables are turned and I am the hostess preparing a Brisket.......I am in agony. Why are briskets so unpredictable?

Briskets Have A Mind Of Their Own : Double The Cooking Time

I have yet to see a Brisket cook in the amount of time that every recipe book states is the ideal cooking time. I would say, that my experience is to DOUBLE the time that these tricky Briskets take to cook. For example, if a recipe says 3 hours....forget it...think SIX . Now before we go any further, I may be the author of several books and many articles about kitchen collectibles, BUT when it comes to cooking a Brisket...I am no authority,
so take whatever I say with a grain of salt.

Never Experiment With A New Brisket Recipe Before A Major Holiday Such As Passover

And that is exactly what my Brisket needed last night...SALT. Salt can fix up any recipe. Here is the problem I ran into. I decided to try a new Brisket recipe. Now here is some sound advice.....never try a new recipe the night before a MAJOR holiday dinner (Passover Seder). Cooking experimentation should be done on a minor holiday...such as Ground Hog Day.

Start Cooking Your Brisket EARLY In The Day

Here are some other tips to consider. Don't start cooking a Brisket too late in the day or you will be slicing your meat at midnight! And don't plan to eat anything on the day of your cooking. I tasted my Brisket so many times while I was preparing it that I AM SICK OF IT NOW.

Slice The Brisket Against The Grain: LOL ......It Doesn't Mean A Darn Thing

And my last comment to you......what the heck does "slicing it against the grain" mean ?
I thought I had this part down to a science. Not a chance.......thank goodness, I have a back up Rock Cornish Hen meal in the oven as we speak. Oops...gotta go.....time to return to holiday preparations.

C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café.To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.comVisit my website, CDianneZweig.comDianne is a member of:The American Society of Journalists and AuthorsThe Society of Professional Journalists

Sunday, April 17, 2011

Setting Your Passover Table With Color And Whimsy Using Fiestaware

Time For A Retro Religious Passover Seder

How about starting the Passover holiday with some vintage pizazz? Have you considered a Retro religious dinner table? Now you can add both color and whimsy to your Seder table and still keep the important traditional Springtime ritual tasteful.

Passover also referred to as Pesach, commemorates the story of the Exodus, in which ancient Israelites were freed from slavery in Egypt. At the start of this holiday, a large family dinner called the Seder, is held on the first two nights.

I visited the wonderful official blog of the Homer Laughlin China Collectors Association and found a fabulous tablescape created by Saarin Scwartz. Saarin used a vintage Fiesta relish tray for her Seder plate. She also has incorporated Ovenserve Riviera/Tango, Post-86 Fiesta and Bakelite flatware.

C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café.To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.comVisit my website, CDianneZweig.comDianne is a member of:The American Society of Journalists and AuthorsThe Society of Professional Journalists

Friday, April 15, 2011

What To Do With Junk When Cleaning Out A House

Got A House Filled With Plastic Bags........ Make Art Not Garbage

You have heard of the phrase, "from rag to riches", but what about "from plastic bags to riches"? Here is my question to you......does the junk that accumulates in mom or dad's house amount to anything besides garbage? Or put another way... are the plastic garbage bags worth anything?

Why Do Seniors Hold Onto Plastic Bags?

Let's start at the beginning. Why do older adults hang onto so many plastic bags? Any bona fide Depressoin era survivor has learned to save every single plastic bag that comes into their home. For someone in their eighties...that is a lot of PLASTIC BAGS over a life time. And let's face it, this habit was established way before it was cool to be "green" in the kitchen.

Should You Throw Out Plastic Bags?

But let's say that the time has come to pack up mom and or dad's home to move into a smaller place or to liquidate an estate? Should you throw out the plastic bags, save them, donate them or even try to sell them?

My first thought is that if you are planning to have a tag or yard sale, save the plastic bags to use in the sale for buyer to take home their goodies in.

Introducing Plastic Bag Artists

But I also want to tell you that there are oodles of people who are "plastic bag artists". Over the years I have met many mixed media artists who make art out of plastic bags. You will find plastic bag artists who all types of plastic bags and re-work them to make to make figures, pocketbooks, chairs, clothing, table decorations, party decor, masks, furniture etc. out of grocery bags, garbage bags, newspaper bags etc.

Throw Out The Garbage, Not The Garbage Bags

So if you discover a room or closet filled with plastic bags.......don't be so quick to discard them.
Hold onto to some to use for an upcoming yard sale and consider offering them or selling them (cheaply) to a plastic bag artist.

Photos courtesy of:
http://szildiko.blogspot.com/

C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café.To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.comVisit my website, CDianneZweig.comDianne is a member of:The American Society of Journalists and AuthorsThe Society of Professional Journalists

Wednesday, April 13, 2011

Using Vintage Kitchen Tools And Collectibles In Your Art Or Craft Studio

Making Art With Thrifty, Nifty Vintage Kitchen Utensils And Tools

Have you ever considered using vintage kitchen tools and utensils for making art? I just bought a few more of these wonderful older housewares to use in my art studio. If you shop in art stores you know that tools and materials are very expensive.

Using Old Kitchen Tools For Art Projects

But here is a new idea....try working with old kitchen utensils when your are making art. Whether you work on paper or you sculpt with clay, there are so many different types of vintage kitchen-wares that can make you life easier.


Plastic Kitchen Carousel Works Well For Holding Paint Brushes And Art Supplies

On my work table right now, I have a wonder plastic utensil carousel with compartments that was intended for kitchen tools. I use it for paint brushes, palette knives, plastic stickes etc. It spins and it holds so many tools. I love it. I bout it for 50 cents at a church White Elephant sale.Old ceramic Lazy Susan's with compartments work great for organizing craft accessories.

Do You Own A Vintage Ice Pick?

I have several ice picks which serve many purposes. They make great tools for punching holes in objects. I also rely on my ice pick for taking out staple gun staples from projects mounted on the wall. And of course they are wonderful piercing tools when glue or paint tubes and containers are stuffed up.

Paint With A Vintage Pastry Spatula

You can get a lot of mileage out of vintage pastry spatulas. Narrow metal spatulas can be used as palette knives. I have used large old spoons to mix paints and gels. Nothing gets thrown out in my house or garage.

Slice Up Your Clay With An Old Hand Chopper

Slice up blocks of clay with the heavy blade of an old hand chopper. My dad always used his hand chopper to mince onions...now I use it for cutting clay. While I am on the subject of chopping...when your kitchen chopping boards get nasty, don't throw them away. They work wonders in an art studio or craft studio for lots of project that require cutting.

Don't Throw Out Your Beat Up Cookie And Baking Trays

Old tin cookie and baking trays (with sides) come in handy for many art projects as well.I have used them to hold shaving cream mixed with food coloring when making "marbleized paper". And enamel cooking trays are wonderful as palettes.

Printing Or Painting With A Turkey Baster

Oh my, I keep thinking of all my art projects and the kitchen tools I have used. I actually printed with the rubber end of a Turkey baster. I dipped the end into paint and stamped with it.
And I met an artist who used the Turkey baster to suck up paint which he than dripped and splattered onto a huge canvas.

Where to Find Vintage Kitchen Utensils

Vintage kitchen tools and utensils can be found at antique shops, tag sales, thrift stores, online auctions, mom's kitchen, grandma's drawers etc. Check out the Salvation Army stores or Goodwill first. These stores have lots of kitchen tools and gadgets for very low prices. Next time you are headed to the art store or hardware store for interesting tools, think about going vintage....it's a lot cheaper!

Some of the photos are courtesy of http://www.flickr.com/
Red handled tool photos courtesy of http://ludgera.blogspot.com/2011/02/red-things-i-like.html
C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café.To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.comVisit my website, CDianneZweig.comDianne is a member of:The American Society of Journalists and AuthorsThe Society of Professional Journalists

Visiting Centerport Antiques And Etceteras, Centerport, N.Y.

Antiquing on The North Shore Of Long Island: Stopping In Centerport

It was off to the North Shore of Long Island, bopping around with my sister visiting some really fun antique shops and Multi-dealer stores. One of my favorite stops was visiting "Centerport Antiques And Etceteras" on Route 25 (Main Street).

Centerport Antiques Is In a Lovely Setting With Cared For Gardens

When you pull up to this charming group shop which is spread into several cottage, you are wondering just what will you find inside? The exterior buildings and grounds are well taken care of with a colorful whimsical theme. Specially made signs with cute sayings greet you as well as many potted seasonal blooming flowers and rock gardens. It is really important for owners of antique shops to create inviting shops. Here the owners went the extra mile to paint the exterior of their store in eye catching colors. It's an easy place to find over and over again.

What Will You Find At Centerport Antiques?

But, enough time of the cute outside...it is time to tell you about what is inside! Once again this is one of those group shops that looks smaller than it actually is. You will find a mix of collectibles, jewelry, decorative pieces, primitives, cottage collectibles, Country collectibles and antiques, wall decor, wicker furniture, Victorian, dolls, toys etc. Of course I am on the hunt for kitchen collectibles, so I size up a place based on what it offer in vintage kitchenwares.

Plenty of Kitchen Collectibles At Centerport Antiques

Centerport did indeed have many dealers with lovely displays of older housewares, kitchen-wares, glassware, textiles etc. You will find a pleasant staff and lots of goodies to take home.

Centerport Antiques & Etceteras

311 E. Main St.
Route 25
Centerport, N.Y.
631-549-9700


C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café.To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.comVisit my website, CDianneZweig.comDianne is a member of:The American Society of Journalists and AuthorsThe Society of Professional Journalists

Tuesday, April 12, 2011

How To Advertise Your Tag Sale, Yard Sale, Estate Sale

How To Have A Successful Tag Sale, Yard Sale, Estate Sale With FREE Advertising

You may have great tag sale or estate sale stuff to sell, but if you don't create some buzz, how will you attract lots of buyers? Some people are lucky enough to live on a street with high traffic and lots of visibility. But folks who have homes or apartments which are tucked away in residential communities need extra help in getting the word out about their upcoming tag, yard, garage, estate sale.

Who Buys At Tag, Estate, Yard Sales

First I want to discuss two different types of buyers. The casual buyer may be a neighbor who sees your sale sign and stops by your home or yard to browse and perhaps pick up a few bargains. But another type of buyer may be an antique dealer or collector who is after a particular item and searches out sales on a regular basis.

Finding The Right Buyers For Your Upcoming Estate, Yard, Tag Sale

If you have a lot of vintage and antique merchandise for sale, you really do want to find the motivated buyers who will appreciate what you have for sale. One terrific and FREE place that you can advertise upcoming sales is on I Antique Online.com. , the largest social network on antiques and collectibles.

You can promote your upcoming tag sale or estate sale on I Antique Online.com in several different places. First you need to join this free site...takes a minute or two. Then you can post your sale in the following places on I Antique Online.com

How To Use I Antique Online.com To Post Your Upcoming Tag or Estate Sale For FREE

1. Post your sale on The Main Forum of I Antique Online.com (front page of the site).

2. Post your sale in the Estate, Yard, Tag Sale Connection Group on I Antique Online.com

3. Post Your sale in any of the over 180 Group Forums (i.e. Glassware, Jewelry, Furniture) which you will find on I Antique Online.com

Post your event in the events calendar on the site.

Reminder : Be sure to tell your friends and neighbors about I Antique Online.com

C. Dianne Zweig
is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café.To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.comVisit my website, CDianneZweig.comDianne is a member of:The American Society of Journalists and AuthorsThe Society of Professional Journalists

Wednesday, April 6, 2011

Who Can I Hire For An Estate Sale Or Tag Sale?

Ask For Help When Liquidating Mom's House

The Good Stuff May Not Be In The China Closet

Should you hire a professional to run an Estate Sale or Tag Sale when you are selling off the contents of a parent's home? Or should you engage family members and conduct a tag sale or yard sale yourself ? Unless you have a super helpful family with a lot of time and knowledge.....I say you are nuts to do it yourself.

Running An Estate Sale Is A BIG Job

Running an estate sale is a BIG JOB! And from the volumes of emails I receive asking me to advise family members about whether what they have to sell has any value? I would say that bringing in someone who has experience on these matters is really critical. I have read many emails that have pictures attached to them with great things that would be of great interest to many buyers as well as looked at photos of items that were in very rough shape and work a few dollars at the most.

Hidden Treasures At An Estate Sale

But sometimes the stuff which seems like it in very "rough" shape is actually the hidden treasure.. You really need to know what the market iit is where you are. What folks are looking for in Manhattan may be very different than what they buy in a small town elsewhere.

What I have learned over the years is that the really "good stuff" may not be in the China Closet, but in the basement, garage or attic. Come on, you all have watched all these new T.V. Reality Shows on antiques and collectibles. Where are they poking around? Not in the Curio cabinet but in the rafters of the garage or storage areas.

Grandma Chic Versus Industrial Chic

In today's market, "Industrial Chic" is in, "Grandma Chic" is out. An old rusty factory table or stool may be of more interest to buyers than a nice Maple kitchen table. How crazy is that. I vote for bringing in a professional, someone who has been in the business for awhile and is well networked with auction Houses, antique stores, collectors and experts.
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Even if the home that you are trying to liquidate is filled rooms of bric-a-brac and ordinary "used furniture", it is still a big deal to try to organize, price and sell off all these things. Why make the job harder than it has to be.....call in a professional Estate or Tag Sale service.

Introducing Estate Mavens

For more information about this topic, visit Estate Mavens
Estate Mavens is a resource group which you will find on my site I Antique Online.com.
You will find all the help you need to learn more about what you have to sell and who can help you.

Photos courtesy of "Refind Green Designs" Downtown, Manchester, CT 860-550-1954

C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café.To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.comVisit my website, CDianneZweig.comDianne is a member of:The American Society of Journalists and AuthorsThe Society of Professional Journalists

Friday, April 1, 2011

Kvelling After Watching Howie Mandel's "Mobbed" On Fox T.V..... Pure Joy!

"Everlasting Love" Is The Song Which Plays As "Mobbed" On Fox T.V. Brings Us A Show About Contagious Love And Joy.

What exactly do you watch after American Idol? Well last night, Howie Mandel brought us "Mobbed" a new Fox special which has nothing to do with gangs and everything to do with a spontaneous wedding goes viral ...or is it wedding goes flash mob! The idea of a contagion effect is exploited to bring total strangers together on the street in celebration of a young couple's secret wedding.

All I can say is that I kvelled during the entire show. Kvell is a perfect Yiddish word to describe what I was feeling as I watched this wedding in the making unfold. Utter JOY....I was sitting on the edge of my seat with a beaming smile across my face.

Howie Mandell Produces "Mobbed' On Fox T.V.

Howie, master prankster, I got to hand it to you , as the producer and creator of this show...you succeeded! Crazy fun....imagine walking into your grandiose wedding in the middle of the street with the cast of total strangers dancing and singing to "Everlasting Love" .

Justin Proposes To Nikki While A Mob Of Dancers Await To Hear From The Bride To Be

The groom (Justin) knows what is gong on, but the clueless bride (Nikki) is going along for the ride. Nikki has no idea that choreographer’s Tabitha and Napoleon have been recruited to teach a mob (1000 people) how to dance in public when she arrives to meet her groom to be (a secret Nikki is not in on) . Nikki thinks she is attending a social event as a lucky couple who are treated to a VIP evening. She has no idea she is about to attend the celebration of her life...first the very public marriage proposal and then her wedding watched by millions on T.V. and witnessed by a mob of strangers!

We watch this drama unfold as the kooky Mandel plans this grand prank. Pure joy....... it's about time we watched a mob gather for PURE JOY! Loved the show........I'm ready for more.

C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café.To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.comVisit my website, CDianneZweig.comDianne is a member of:The American Society of Journalists and AuthorsThe Society of Professional Journalists