There are a lot of ways to run an antique business—and honestly, that’s part of the magic. Every dealer brings their own eye, standards, and personality into the pieces they source and the way they sell them.
But over time, I’ve realized there are a few things that just don’t align with how I want to show up in this space.
So here it is—my personal list:
1. I won’t negotiate with a seller whose only reference point is 1stDibs
Pricing antiques is nuanced. Condition, rarity, provenance, and real market demand all matter.
Using only one high-end marketplace as a benchmark completely misses the mark when determining value. I believe in pricing that reflects both value and accessibility, especially for pieces meant to be lived with.
If a dealer can't tell me anything about a piece except "this is what it sells for on 1st Dibs" and shows me an online listing, we probably aren't going to agree on much.
2. I won’t call something “antique” just because it looks old
Words matter.
“Antique” has a definition (traditionally 100+ years old), and I think it’s important to honor that. There’s nothing wrong with vintage, found, or simply old pieces—but transparency builds trust, and trust is everything in this business.
If I call something "antique", I need to back that up with data: where and when it was made, what clues the piece gives to its age, and how I came up with the date I've assigned it.
Now this... is OLD - engravings of British war ships from the 1790s Encyclopedia Brittanica.
3. I won’t skimp on packing materials when shipping your order
If you’ve ever received a fragile piece in questionable packaging… you already know why this matters.
Your order should arrive safely, thoughtfully wrapped, and protected like it matters—because it does. These pieces have already lasted decades (sometimes centuries). The least I can do is make sure they get to you in one piece.
I refuse to cut corners on safe packaging materials.
4. I won’t put a “Not for Sale” tag on my booth furniture
If it’s in my booth, it’s for sale. Period.
I want people to feel inspired by how pieces can live together—but also empowered to take that exact piece home. Nothing kills the experience faster than falling in love with something… and realizing you can’t actually buy it.
5. I won’t buy another Sunbonnet quilt
This one might be a little controversial—but if you know, you know.
We all have those pieces we’ve sourced one too many times. Its ok to not like something everyone else loves. Stay true to who you are.
Everyone’s “Refuse To” list probably looks a little different and that’s exactly how it should be.
That’s what makes this world of antiques so interesting. No two sellers curate the same way, source the same way, or value the same things. And that’s what allows you to find pieces that truly feel like you.
And if you’re a fellow antique lover who found yourself nodding along to every one of these…
Let’s be friends 🤍 Comment below on your Refuse list!
Booth photos are from my spot at Glenwood Antique Mall—come shop if you’re in the Kansas City area!