So my Mom and I decided to take a little two day junKation down to Roseburg, Oregon. I have a handful of fun little junk shops I frequent. They don't even show up on Google search, that's how awesomely junky they are!
On our way there, we decided to hit up an estate sale in the morning. We had arrived one hour early and there was already a line of about fifteen people. Since it was raining cats and dogs, we decided to wait in the car, rather than stand in line with the crazies. If you have never been to an estate sale, let me just warn you that every one there is a little crazy.
Typically the first twenty people in line are dealers, ie: your competition. Dealers are quick, knowledgeable, and know how to negotiate. The hard core ones even come with grocery store hand baskets. I prefer a wingman, if available.
This estate sale was only letting five people in at a time. The thought of other dealers taking their time, sorting through possible 1950s party dresses, rhinestones, and imaginary chandeliers made my heart race and my hands sweaty. My mom and I patiently waited in line, keeping our poker faces.
After about thirty minutes, the lady had finally called our names, and we were in! Like the pros that we are, we split upon entry to cover more ground. This plan is usually devised while waiting in the car or in line.
Well, no 1950s dresses or imaginary chandeliers....... but I did score some amazing 1950s suitcases, chalkware figures, and this incredible 1960's hanging rattan chair for $20! I've been wanting one for our patio. Come to find this baby goes for around $200 online. Score baby!
This thing took up half of my car, but it's literally a huge basket, which means I can fill it up with stuff.
We hit up some of my favorite spots and found some cute smalls (which I shared on FB and a future video). The next morning we got up early and were ready to shop the big antique market at the fairgrounds! I was so freaking excited to drag around my new shopping cart I revamped!
I painted her pink and sewed the fabulous liner myself! I got a ton of compliments while standing in line. Totally fed my crafty ego.
At first, Mom and I were wondering around the market with an empty cart, which was quite depressing given I was prepared to fill her up! The market was actually seemingly small with maybe fifty vendor spaces. Some of them were sky high and others had some treasures with meat on the bone (translation: money to be made).
As some of you know, my big 30th birthday is coming up. You could say I'm difficult to shop for, but I'm really not. I provide everyone with a detailed list of photos, places to find the items, and a decent price point at which to purchase. I guess the difficult part is that I want unique shit.
(ie: difficult to find)
One of the impossible to find items actually found ME on this trip! I really enjoy buying my own early birthday presents. The hunt for the perfect item is fun, and I get exactly what my heart desires.
Enter jadeite S&P shakers with original lids.
My mom is getting better at spotting the gaudy shit I love. We were a bit separated in the market and I heard her calling me to come over an look at something. I get a bit spacy and "junk drunk" at events such as this, and it can be difficult to focus. Mom reeled me in over to this amazing gold gilt, filigree, vined, mirrored, porcelain rose fabulousness that was screaming my name. I did not know what this incredible piece was called, but it was Italian and GOLD and it needed to be mine.
Enter the Italian Tole Etagere
SHE LIGHTS UP!
It turns out these are quite rare and valuable. I feel a bit bad for talking the dealer down $10, but I had no clue of it's worth! Check this out: http://www.rubylane.com/item/350519-61890A/Italian-Florentine-Large-Gilt-Metal
I die. That's insane. But she belongs to me now.
My inner old lady is pleased.
Beautiful (and valuable) Italian piece! Looks just like "you!" I love your blog, only recently discovered it after your recent posting. I'm a certified "junker", too. Drives my hubby mad!
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