tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-76137495899384017212023-11-16T08:45:32.531-08:00Vintage Show OffDenise Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13389394184925325152noreply@blogger.comBlogger77125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7613749589938401721.post-52697578044648033922015-12-13T16:29:00.002-08:002020-07-23T06:32:46.024-07:00Last PostThe Vintage Show Off blog and Facebook page have been a labor of love. I enjoyed sharing what I've learned with others trying to find success in this business. Since my husband was diagnosed with cancer and later died, I have lost my interest in the antiquing business. My life has turned upside down and I'm finding myself in completely new territory. I had hoped to keep dabbling here, but I have come to realize that isn't going to work. I'm simply too busy with other things.<br />
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This will be my last post here. I'll leave the blog posts up and hopefully, they'll continue to help vendors. Thanks for all the kind words along my journey. They meant more than anyone will ever know.<div><br /></div><div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>
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<br /><div><br /></div></div>Denise Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13389394184925325152noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7613749589938401721.post-37774433926067050522015-10-28T17:21:00.000-07:002015-10-28T17:21:23.679-07:00Two Booths in One MallI've been thinking recently about vendors who have two booths in one mall. This post is not to debate the pros and cons of doing that, but rather one idea for using those booths. This idea came to me when thinking about how to help a particular vendor who has recently been troubled by slow sales. <br />
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First, for this idea to work, the two booths shouldn't look the same. The vendor I am thinking of has a booth with all neutrals. It's very pretty (she's incredibly talented) and she refreshes it often. Since the look is always neutral, even after something new is brought in, it's not always apparent that things have changed.<br />
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Her price point is high for the area. She brings things in and marks them at the most she thinks she could get. There are times when the item sells quickly. There are other times when things sit for months. Most any vendor could say the same. <br />
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After an item sits for awhile, this vendor will do what most vendors do - she marks it down. The problem is, many customers have already checked out the piece and decided it's more than they can afford. They have no way of knowing it's been marked down. If they return to the store, they might glance at the item as they walk through the store, but they often don't take a new look at the price tag. They remember it was high. This vendor doesn't use big tacky sale signs on anything. To do that in a high end booth is very risky. Anyway, the item is likely to sit for a good while more, even after it's been marked down.<br />
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This vendor has a second booth. It, too, is all neutrals. It, too, is high end. It's very similar in look and feel to her first booth. <b>That second booth is an opportunity to do something different!</b><br />
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If this were me, I would use the second booth as a spot to re-introduce pieces that haven't sold, in a way that makes them look different and new to the store. The furniture would stay neutral (no need to paint it), but accessories would be colorful. In other words, if a piece from the neutral pricey booth didn't sell, then it would be marked to a lower price, moved to booth 2 and redecorated with color so it looks like a brand new item. I would NOT put a sale sign on it. I'd make a whole new tag at a lower price as if it's something that has just been brought in. Even customers who had seen the item would wonder, "Is that the piece I was looking at in the other booth last month?" They'd take another look at the tag. <br />
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Another bonus - if a customer has a colorful style, they might not have been able to envision the piece in their home while it was in the neutral booth. This is another opportunity to attract different customers.<br />
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I have said many times to many vendors, "If something doesn't sell in a timely manner, then make it seem completely different." If you have two booths, it's a perfect opportunity to keep all of your items looking new and exciting, even when sales are slow. <br />
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Bringing color into the second booth doesn't have to be expensive or a major undertaking. You don't have to use every color under the sun, unless you want to. Here are some photos that might give you some ideas -<br />
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In this photo, items are neutral, but the colorful wall makes a statement.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggE7px4EFlIc30SqPNv4CuqvldmCOMdKTTpDsq1tcyudvzWKQwZ8U9QgQBM7u9di91uHfzSu7bR7aSl4uaKlPuHUrkSlIN1pHY1XJer4K0zia8NyOTeIkDrxypwri770uFT9mqGGqzZykA/s1600/755bbc0b5a7fdc6916a2017d62bf3fc9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggE7px4EFlIc30SqPNv4CuqvldmCOMdKTTpDsq1tcyudvzWKQwZ8U9QgQBM7u9di91uHfzSu7bR7aSl4uaKlPuHUrkSlIN1pHY1XJer4K0zia8NyOTeIkDrxypwri770uFT9mqGGqzZykA/s640/755bbc0b5a7fdc6916a2017d62bf3fc9.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a data-element-type="27" href="http://www.paulinaarcklin.nl/picturethis/b-green/" rel="nofollow" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; color: #444444; display: block; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, 'ヒラギノ角ゴ Pro W3', 'Hiragino Kaku Gothic Pro', メイリオ, Meiryo, 'MS Pゴシック', arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; position: relative; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.329412) 1px 1px 0px;">Found on paulinaarcklin.nl</a></td></tr>
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With Christmas around the corner, there are all sorts of opportunities to pull in colors.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvw8Jngt3syoojEwAJPSvweQyJ4J4GkCCA3RXj0gwRTle09HqPFXQkzpnEGs3Ih5MC2J68MFMMGCd2fEWcfQ_y0s7gmuCqreuqNweaUgSLNrFq19kMYQO-Ka95xi6aQo1y0aUu8RW5UFX1/s1600/820333179af76d3c4dd0f25a7305c7b1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvw8Jngt3syoojEwAJPSvweQyJ4J4GkCCA3RXj0gwRTle09HqPFXQkzpnEGs3Ih5MC2J68MFMMGCd2fEWcfQ_y0s7gmuCqreuqNweaUgSLNrFq19kMYQO-Ka95xi6aQo1y0aUu8RW5UFX1/s640/820333179af76d3c4dd0f25a7305c7b1.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a data-element-type="27" href="http://www.rebeccaersfeld.com/2011/11/very-vintage-christmas-show.html" rel="nofollow" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; color: #444444; display: block; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, 'ヒラギノ角ゴ Pro W3', 'Hiragino Kaku Gothic Pro', メイリオ, Meiryo, 'MS Pゴシック', arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; position: relative; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.329412) 1px 1px 0px;">Found on rebeccaersfeld.com</a></td></tr>
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You could paint a few medium and small items a favorite color.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxUkjmG480jNx0k9sqj1BdSkLr8lbwysVhJwm8iuxHKStwO6-WZVZ1a7ggx7_dLxP9AWEskui01Xgt5IXTzqG2W0JYeWTrQDpWBlDf_QYi1o7xcS-t3XskQDsUR2xqiETuUABHZsEJnvWm/s1600/e5c20b4a74b21eaa6be76f4f327cb4bb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxUkjmG480jNx0k9sqj1BdSkLr8lbwysVhJwm8iuxHKStwO6-WZVZ1a7ggx7_dLxP9AWEskui01Xgt5IXTzqG2W0JYeWTrQDpWBlDf_QYi1o7xcS-t3XskQDsUR2xqiETuUABHZsEJnvWm/s640/e5c20b4a74b21eaa6be76f4f327cb4bb.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a data-element-type="27" href="http://vintageshowoff.blogspot.ca/2014/06/is-it-better-to-limit-colors-in-booth.html" rel="nofollow" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; color: #444444; display: block; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, 'ヒラギノ角ゴ Pro W3', 'Hiragino Kaku Gothic Pro', メイリオ, Meiryo, 'MS Pゴシック', arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; position: relative; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.329412) 1px 1px 0px;">Found on vintageshowoff.blogspot.ca</a></td></tr>
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Display crates could be painted an accent color.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh18lXM2GLxORqWQ0eZPhEuxEejm3aDdTcuzTb5roqYWPzk4DE6kEiu7QVSCg7eaAYDTaht7r8_ZZ-ytUEskLe4XorxKD6uV_pdTCZmd9214tfoP8WGO9BKFpyhszDIj3TxHJSgzZ1PZisM/s1600/90b923e66f35493703261ebf1df3762b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh18lXM2GLxORqWQ0eZPhEuxEejm3aDdTcuzTb5roqYWPzk4DE6kEiu7QVSCg7eaAYDTaht7r8_ZZ-ytUEskLe4XorxKD6uV_pdTCZmd9214tfoP8WGO9BKFpyhszDIj3TxHJSgzZ1PZisM/s640/90b923e66f35493703261ebf1df3762b.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a data-element-type="27" href="http://roundbarnpottingco.blogspot.com/2010/05/random-shots.html" rel="nofollow" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; color: #444444; display: block; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, 'ヒラギノ角ゴ Pro W3', 'Hiragino Kaku Gothic Pro', メイリオ, Meiryo, 'MS Pゴシック', arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; position: relative; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.329412) 1px 1px 0px;">Found on roundbarnpottingco.blogspot.com</a></td></tr>
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Fabric and plants can always be used to add a touch of color.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqkt_gFC7LED6IMO4NX3gDZ_yV6p-SQWZuDhYPzr2QWocp7lP13lPrTwVOAMOm7msUf0MM-X8JnhR-xVWPR3Y3PLHTZjyAWvqpedwn4dSGlMaEzxi6ReK1t-_IohFL42MFn_RdxsW9m8RC/s1600/ef35422d0ed08fbd59be015dfc1799c8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqkt_gFC7LED6IMO4NX3gDZ_yV6p-SQWZuDhYPzr2QWocp7lP13lPrTwVOAMOm7msUf0MM-X8JnhR-xVWPR3Y3PLHTZjyAWvqpedwn4dSGlMaEzxi6ReK1t-_IohFL42MFn_RdxsW9m8RC/s640/ef35422d0ed08fbd59be015dfc1799c8.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a data-element-type="27" href="http://isabellang.blogspot.com/2011/04/monticello-garden-show.html" rel="nofollow" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; color: #444444; display: block; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, 'ヒラギノ角ゴ Pro W3', 'Hiragino Kaku Gothic Pro', メイリオ, Meiryo, 'MS Pゴシック', arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; position: relative; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.329412) 1px 1px 0px;">Found on isabellang.blogspot.com</a></td></tr>
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ONE MORE THING - If you don't have a second booth, but find this idea appealing, you might go in with one or two other vendors to share a second booth to use in a similar way.Denise Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13389394184925325152noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7613749589938401721.post-58562824569680681972015-09-20T15:48:00.002-07:002015-09-20T15:48:47.110-07:00Best Selling SmallsThanks Readers, for all the input for great selling smalls (the "it" smalls that sell no matter what)! We got some great ideas!!! For any vendor wanting to know what smalls to try selling, you're sure to find some great ideas here.<br />
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Here are the suggestions -<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiFv6lbCt-Jj7vvYNzP2AWB3P9MWq_HJOc8CeMgG8R5v6gCs6_ip4UevW7tcF7Do1BdjAlVwC4xM7rW1ksyzffUXbcoa15j8lZY5uzkLLDf4AlJKVc-8qeE37z9PZrbsyLdRdTe2wZVbfk/s1600/ak-license.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="158" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiFv6lbCt-Jj7vvYNzP2AWB3P9MWq_HJOc8CeMgG8R5v6gCs6_ip4UevW7tcF7Do1BdjAlVwC4xM7rW1ksyzffUXbcoa15j8lZY5uzkLLDf4AlJKVc-8qeE37z9PZrbsyLdRdTe2wZVbfk/s320/ak-license.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<li><i>Marti@RESCUE REHAB </i>- License plates!!! Maybe just because I am in Alaska, they are extremely popular, easily fit into a tourist's suitcase and I cannot keep them in stock. - - <b>great idea for those who live in a popular tourist state</b></li>
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<li><i>Sherry@Back2Vintage </i>- I sell lots of vintage children's books (especially Little Golden Books), aprons, wood-handled kitchen utensils and serving pieces like pastry servers and cake knives. </li>
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<li><i>Jennifer Nail </i>- I sell A LOT of cookie cutters and red handled utensils in my Vintage Kitchen booth. In my other booths, small milk glass pieces tend to sell very quickly and wire baskets of all shapes and sizes! </li>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ6v3WAWat7t2DODHtEHEQd7fPY8yLYQHgv2veZ4VqYYTorfimq1tvrZ469T68bFnYqWhFLm2l-1dpZowMi4KsAo9dVTL-YWpJwe6W-GfkMvfEmrRhW4BV4WcoiVXYjmf_EN_1C3-dV3zI/s1600/upcycled-cutlery-markers.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="277" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ6v3WAWat7t2DODHtEHEQd7fPY8yLYQHgv2veZ4VqYYTorfimq1tvrZ469T68bFnYqWhFLm2l-1dpZowMi4KsAo9dVTL-YWpJwe6W-GfkMvfEmrRhW4BV4WcoiVXYjmf_EN_1C3-dV3zI/s400/upcycled-cutlery-markers.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<li><i>Betsy@My Salvaged Treasures </i>- I sell LOTS of flattened and stamped silverware garden markers (spoons, forks, knives) It's hard to keep them in stock and I always have to make more between shows. <i> </i></li>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2KVqfrECjCIVoHu_tB2C5d2P42ZKlO95F2XhVdSwbMphXfpPWgGOG-ZeU8U1zL5gxH2Lfi60MmxnVD2O1SUbQdGPWHljalBFFN2kUNzlHyzQqEmaS2qDZuOMqRmSGXgQtFDsa9dFmvXg2/s1600/globe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2KVqfrECjCIVoHu_tB2C5d2P42ZKlO95F2XhVdSwbMphXfpPWgGOG-ZeU8U1zL5gxH2Lfi60MmxnVD2O1SUbQdGPWHljalBFFN2kUNzlHyzQqEmaS2qDZuOMqRmSGXgQtFDsa9dFmvXg2/s320/globe.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<li><i>Liz Gant</i> - World globes on a stand. I put one in my booth, turned around to grab a price tag, and a customer already had it in her hand. Quick sale!<br /><i>Patricia Lusk Grose</i> added - This was true for me as well. Bought one on Craig's List and felt I may have bought too high- resold and doubled my money within two days.<br /><i>Beth Kohn</i> added - Would love to know your sale price.<br /><i>Liz Gant </i>answered - Hi Beth. This was a mini globe, shelf size. I found it at a thrift store for $1 and sold for $15.</li>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDN_BfNlF5vy-swsad9b1F97gv3xQ84f89qoStKXTX_2agkb7X4o4XvCZdW_VF7xC9-ZiyBhvgKMSAdS4z5iE6pSGwhz3gQ4F1yHuGNo_rP4DQj9CCgjMqYtklAKvmKedoSuMHMEcSXVRN/s1600/masonjar.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDN_BfNlF5vy-swsad9b1F97gv3xQ84f89qoStKXTX_2agkb7X4o4XvCZdW_VF7xC9-ZiyBhvgKMSAdS4z5iE6pSGwhz3gQ4F1yHuGNo_rP4DQj9CCgjMqYtklAKvmKedoSuMHMEcSXVRN/s320/masonjar.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<li><i>Mona Moore</i> - Handkerchiefs, linens and doilies (but you have to display them on a rack or something, not just throw them in a pile), mason jars with zinc lids, old photos, old yardsticks, interesting old books and ones with pretty covers (I parcel these out, a few at a time, displayed around the booth, not crammed into a bookshelf.).</li>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxfmS8utyD3yWckZyYByfJ8Ba-bd1UmNmUh2PUHh1oYqXuoq6-XOCulqm2Yu04TpvDpjNz9f_mZ4HNs_RopOTRLFAK1InLDgQ8_C7DxOZ43fQYLlot2ELCktR6x7YqWcJJgVJ0NupVTFs-/s1600/cup-tree.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxfmS8utyD3yWckZyYByfJ8Ba-bd1UmNmUh2PUHh1oYqXuoq6-XOCulqm2Yu04TpvDpjNz9f_mZ4HNs_RopOTRLFAK1InLDgQ8_C7DxOZ43fQYLlot2ELCktR6x7YqWcJJgVJ0NupVTFs-/s320/cup-tree.jpg" width="176" /></a></div>
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<li><i>Melanie Tolbert</i> - All the sudden I am having great luck with the old metal cup trees and the wood ones too. I fund pyrex cup and mugs or other interesting old cups. Paint the holders to match the cups and boom. They are gone.</li>
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<li><i>Carol Jones Sasser</i> - Small clocks, vintage linens</li>
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<li><i>Linda Schlott</i> - Here in western NC, linens,globes on a stand,wire baskets,blue mason jars, aprons, large painted picture frames without the glass,kitchen items all do well. I'm so glad that someone asked this question, I've read the comments and got some great ideas!</li>
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<li><i>Lynne Solomon</i> - In florida, old windows, doors architectural pieces, anything rusty metal . Any piece I buy just for display. ..lol. sugar & creamer sets, butter dishes and silverplate, crocheted or lace tablecloths & doilies.</li>
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<li><i>Cindy Jothen </i>- I live in southern Arizona and anything western, cowboy, Indian or southwest (shot glasses, figurines, pictures, wind chimes, nightlight, etc)sells to our snowbirds. Other good selling items are linens (hankies, aprons, placemats) and vintage kitchen items.</li>
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<li><i>Karin Evans</i> - Anything wood, I paint it distress it, wax it....., small wood boxes, sometimes I just stencil with a crown, fleur di lis!</li>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigwh3qzWjfP8sNgaGaryZWTE__r0QL7Npd7s1smlUnJYA3SoE8NAQanNd3TW0cOPJW3jjwjQ_LauXMiJaKyHnYxBlLrEwm72gYplruWP1FvBDj1RR1YY81VKAJmyx5H7DSqG8xXZnnhr2s/s1600/wire-basket.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="289" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigwh3qzWjfP8sNgaGaryZWTE__r0QL7Npd7s1smlUnJYA3SoE8NAQanNd3TW0cOPJW3jjwjQ_LauXMiJaKyHnYxBlLrEwm72gYplruWP1FvBDj1RR1YY81VKAJmyx5H7DSqG8xXZnnhr2s/s320/wire-basket.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
<ul>
<li><i>Charlene Speir Danner</i> - East Alabama: vanity mirror trays, all mirrors, all kinds of trays, wire baskets, white creamer/sugar sets and small crates with mason jars tied with jute ribbon.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><i>Kathleen Williams Duffey</i> - Trays, small signs, boxes, small painted wood things, anything birds.<br /><i>Kelly Stroble</i> added - Same here. Also framed vintage art printed on book pages.</li>
</ul>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4M4RpBjHZ3gG4A504ZJDHXsEcOgUR2RkONgX8bhXQu6wNwjmDtupjtB1YZ_NkHIUQRV6hjtS7z2Dg61npQP03w6cG8Aeb9DdhowzQV7MmB-LwSI0W2adxL2yGNG2NyUvM2DdJzueXmfmS/s1600/silver-tray.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4M4RpBjHZ3gG4A504ZJDHXsEcOgUR2RkONgX8bhXQu6wNwjmDtupjtB1YZ_NkHIUQRV6hjtS7z2Dg61npQP03w6cG8Aeb9DdhowzQV7MmB-LwSI0W2adxL2yGNG2NyUvM2DdJzueXmfmS/s320/silver-tray.jpg" width="246" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<ul>
<li><i>Deborah Brockman</i> - Anything of good quality sells in my area. I look for makers marks and known names. Also silver plate items, tea cups, tea pots, and trays- almost any kind of tray you are using in a display will fly out the door!</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><i>Leigha Young Burnham</i> - In Georgia I've been selling candlesticks like crazy and pillows....always pillows.<br /><i>Barbara Ackerman</i> asked - What kind of candlesticks are you selling...wooden, brass or ceramic?<br /><i>Leigha Young Burnham</i> answered - I've sold metal mostly and then recently, really ornate plaster kind. One lady came and bought all from my booth for her daughter's wedding! I had never thought about that....I'm trying to incorporate that idea into my displays.<br /><i>Jayne Ann</i> - Right now in my shop it's been lots of sconces, brass candlesticks (not lacquered) and candles </li>
</ul>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRqWThaVt5SNcs2ufMcwGkNONrgNTx5EWOQM1vdKY9ZN4rk1FrNNfigp5SUlIrWdRK_2GApM28Qqgj9kmpN1u6HWmB7gROQmOt4kuGQk99pE35i5zmTVibED-2IxtDcH80K1wTK4KMZBS8/s1600/wood-tray.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRqWThaVt5SNcs2ufMcwGkNONrgNTx5EWOQM1vdKY9ZN4rk1FrNNfigp5SUlIrWdRK_2GApM28Qqgj9kmpN1u6HWmB7gROQmOt4kuGQk99pE35i5zmTVibED-2IxtDcH80K1wTK4KMZBS8/s400/wood-tray.jpg" width="263" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
<ul>
<li><i>Cindy Bailey</i> - trays. all kinds, painted, wood, vintage, modern. just stage them and they sell. Kathleen Williams Duffey added - Yep! Same here!</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><i>Angie Kuhl</i> - Vintage clear glass canisters with cork stoppers. (our shop is frequented by 20-somethings.)</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><i>Jolene Forrester</i> - Kitschy Salt & Pepper Shakers of animals.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><i>Mary Elizabeth Cauthen</i> - I do well with odd dishes, bowls, trays and boxes. Also, sets of dishes from pier one, pottery barn, world market, etc.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><i>Alexandra Byk</i> - Blue Mason jars</li>
</ul>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifoBRq7J9KAOqtn1S_izyNIp_YLkT2XsEhx8O-IRQIkE_ShyDNU9_mceLEdeSAdhox6kB76d-gj91nCU1gshLBHaIfpaSx8ZGJoIR7VRxuNYmMhYWPcf_QO-s8eU5Av0BANOhWTOBnKZLn/s1600/cloche.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifoBRq7J9KAOqtn1S_izyNIp_YLkT2XsEhx8O-IRQIkE_ShyDNU9_mceLEdeSAdhox6kB76d-gj91nCU1gshLBHaIfpaSx8ZGJoIR7VRxuNYmMhYWPcf_QO-s8eU5Av0BANOhWTOBnKZLn/s320/cloche.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<ul>
<li><i>Dana Crowl Schwarting</i> - Distressed frames, architectural finds(like windows) and cloches.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><i>Catherine Jesse-Stegeman</i> - anything aqua, turquoise</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><i>Holly Daigle</i> - Table cloths and metal ice cube trays</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><i>Sheree Russ</i> - In Michigan it seems to be shaving items (especially old razors), old windows, any old galvanized, one dealer does well with vintage formal dresses, people are asking for chandeliers and even outdoor hanging lights - actually most types of lamps/lighting do well if priced right, and industrial items, even very large pieces are selling well.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><i>Sharon Damm</i> - Distressed frames with no glass, rusty items, floral, roosters, birds and clocks. In Selma, Ca.</li>
</ul>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaFOTfhHIN2LYnRlAITCn4smyT3h4RcFtCk3NpJlIAE80sTP0LMyOopXxj4NfUrzM0BSh9QbIKHl6xdeWo2uYQkermUJyYB6Xb5Ibj4mfbXo3iscXyeAr6pcJ6NPd3FGpSYh5-IOH8_kLh/s1600/keys.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="254" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaFOTfhHIN2LYnRlAITCn4smyT3h4RcFtCk3NpJlIAE80sTP0LMyOopXxj4NfUrzM0BSh9QbIKHl6xdeWo2uYQkermUJyYB6Xb5Ibj4mfbXo3iscXyeAr6pcJ6NPd3FGpSYh5-IOH8_kLh/s320/keys.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<ul>
<li><i>Janet Sears</i> - Ephemera, keys, sewing notions</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><i>Michelle Grell LaRue</i> - Old books and anything galvanized.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><i>Stacy Miller Clark</i> - Bed springs do well too.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><i>Cheryl Stead Henderhan</i> - milk glass bud vases, blue canning jars, old books and doilies</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><i>Marshall Dawn Kutchey</i> - Vintage cookbooks, milk glass, painted frames...</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><i>Yvonne Bullinger</i> - Jewelry, anything nautical, small home decor & surprisingly linens</li>
</ul>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVp1lBigI2FjLsqUri75VT37vHBRzoWmbeHV7DxSBQa8DEqOKa_omCNZ6SIe5hTl2rw6Fad3trRUc5V4T6pETN4ksMw_OevFzR1W6E8FSuouA0nGrnAmLwZeNyDamI7513eeINyKkuOWV7/s1600/ruler.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="254" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVp1lBigI2FjLsqUri75VT37vHBRzoWmbeHV7DxSBQa8DEqOKa_omCNZ6SIe5hTl2rw6Fad3trRUc5V4T6pETN4ksMw_OevFzR1W6E8FSuouA0nGrnAmLwZeNyDamI7513eeINyKkuOWV7/s320/ruler.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
<ul>
<li><i>Tiffany Ervin Steers</i> - In AL & most of southeast, industrial items (old expandable rulers, yard sticks, wooden handled paint brushes, galvanized "anything", oil cans) any architectural (old windows, door knobs, wooden & porcelain castors, hinges, knobs, pulls, etc., anything w/ birds or nests, suitcases/luggage, vintage linens, silver plate</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><i>Cindy Oplinger McCandlish</i> - Hankies, doilies, buttons, bone China teapots and cup/saucer sets.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><i>Brenda Kirtley</i> - Distressed larger size empty frames (no glass)</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><i>Donna Smith</i> Sita - Nautical, globes, barware, architectural items, jewelry, paintings</li>
</ul>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP1LO10LhrA50z41FssxjuXaxE8NBZ2bIrC9bMg3ptShawEkHogiy_2wuFpZEnZj9_8eIAv4FDT-RC25ZaQGsrlldIxUc0dpnnIK0G3DjJBmqqU64cjwMmtBkkpOYrH3F8WqocmWwcgr30/s1600/scale.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP1LO10LhrA50z41FssxjuXaxE8NBZ2bIrC9bMg3ptShawEkHogiy_2wuFpZEnZj9_8eIAv4FDT-RC25ZaQGsrlldIxUc0dpnnIK0G3DjJBmqqU64cjwMmtBkkpOYrH3F8WqocmWwcgr30/s320/scale.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<ul>
<li><i>The Ladybug & Company</i> - Scales: table top or hanging.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><i>Jenny Polley Sadler</i> - For me horse anything. .globes, aprons,pyrex, cookbooks,tools man stuff depends on which booth too</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><i>Sherri Regenscheid</i> - Wood letter painted or decoupaged</li>
</ul>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin_Bra-MHsA4kQpEGveVrh9JMIbwN3jO8JyYKc0LzZO2MEEiOXtqHKQJX3RIFhgfiWPo6kmFfM7VR6gMeZA1DRBzYPmTonT687-8uKxJ86lER6MhJFrUqd7uiLoFzxF0lJFa4OghVufwQA/s1600/sign.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="145" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin_Bra-MHsA4kQpEGveVrh9JMIbwN3jO8JyYKc0LzZO2MEEiOXtqHKQJX3RIFhgfiWPo6kmFfM7VR6gMeZA1DRBzYPmTonT687-8uKxJ86lER6MhJFrUqd7uiLoFzxF0lJFa4OghVufwQA/s320/sign.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<ul>
<li><i>Spoon Sisters Tiques & Treasures</i> - Advertising memorabilia sells well in our shop.</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: red;">WE DON'T HAVE TO STOP HERE! </span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: red;">If you have more ideas, leave a comment on this post!!!</span></b></div>
Denise Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13389394184925325152noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7613749589938401721.post-48597656726062280022015-09-18T05:58:00.000-07:002015-09-18T06:01:01.804-07:00Question: Best Selling SmallsThis post is a little different because I'm asking for reader input. I got a message from Stephanie (of <a href="http://www.facebook.com/lovelyretrorenos">Lovely Retro Renos</a>) saying, <b>" I would love to hear from your fans/readers what are the "it" smalls that no matter what always move in their booth!"</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
Great idea! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiURdNEEf0bEz_4CXJXEwbLZK7wTXdNLCDwKBImaZ1_-zzg3C6t7Sv-MqL39mBZ_iGPfMzQ5TKfbQJS4nvNDGBuKUrSkd04oIpJgRkVzuYfgYKyFCXMX_s53bRCIxWdDP-_KUbCs9h2KzFk/s1600/It-Smalls.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="333" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiURdNEEf0bEz_4CXJXEwbLZK7wTXdNLCDwKBImaZ1_-zzg3C6t7Sv-MqL39mBZ_iGPfMzQ5TKfbQJS4nvNDGBuKUrSkd04oIpJgRkVzuYfgYKyFCXMX_s53bRCIxWdDP-_KUbCs9h2KzFk/s400/It-Smalls.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<br />
When I first started a booth, Jacque, one of the most successful vendors at the store passed on all sorts of advice to me. I remember her saying that the smalls were the bread and butter. They paid the rent. They gave you a profit. The big pieces were icing on the cake, but you may have to wait a little for some of those to sell. <br />
<br />
Over time I learned that she was right, but there's such an art to finding the balance. Too many smalls can keep the big pieces from selling. Not enough smalls and you won't make enough money to make it worthwhile. The biggest trick with smalls, of course, is finding great smalls that sell and look great. While those smalls are in your booth, they should look great. <br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: x-large;">LEAVE A COMMENT!</span></b></div>
<br />
Now here's where you come in. Think about what sells well for you (or for others in your mall) and leave a comment. You can leave the comment here or on the similar post I have on the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/vintageshowoff">Vintage Showoff Facebook page</a>. <br />
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Next week, I'll put the info together and write a post with the best advice about smalls!Denise Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13389394184925325152noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7613749589938401721.post-61698663168870522282015-09-17T07:09:00.000-07:002015-09-18T06:20:23.672-07:00Getting Rid of Things<div style="text-align: center;">
Sometimes, you reach a point where you know <span style="font-size: large;"><b>something is not going to sell at a price that will make a profit</b></span>. </div>
<br />
There's point where even looking at it will cause you stress. It's time to let it go.<br />
<br />
I have been messaging about this with a friend. In her case, she had to take a break from having a booth and she needed to get rid of all the extra stuff in her house. She tried a market. She tried inviting vendors to her house. She was trying to sell the things without feeling like she was throwing money away. It can be a dismal feeling. She finally decided to take everything to an auction and get rid of it all once and for all.<br />
<br />
I wrote something to her that I want to share. I think it might be useful for MORE than just people closing a booth. It's useful for people with a booth, too, who just need to clean out some things. Here's what I wrote to her -<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i>The auction will be so much easier for you. You can get everything out of your way and not have to worry about it anymore. I have reached a point where letting things go is not about making any money. It's often not even about getting what I paid for it. It's about lightening my load and passing things on to people who will enjoy them. I've taken load after load to Goodwill. I've given things away to friends. It feels good to be generous. It feels good to not feel the stress of seeing things that I no longer want or need. Even if you take a loss at the auction... even if you see some things go for prices that are sickening... try to let it all go with joy. Say a prayer that whoever gets it will enjoy it and then just smile. </i></blockquote>
This is very much the attitude in a marvelous book - <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Life-Changing-Magic-Tidying-Decluttering-Organizing/dp/1607747308/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1442497610&sr=8-1&keywords=marie+kondo">The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up</a> by Marie Kondo. That book will help you learn to let go.<br />
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<br />
Keep in mind, I don't have a booth right now, so my letting go is way more drastic than it would be if I did have a booth. I may pick up and have a booth again, maybe even next year, but for now, I'm cleaning out and lightening my load. You may think it's mostly my husband's stuff, but no, most of the junk was mine. We vendors tend to accumulate clutter. <br />
<br />
Still, I used this premise often when I had sales in my booth. There are times when you realize, something you found for your booth was a mistake. Maybe you paid too much for it. Maybe it's not right for your area. Maybe it's got a flaw you didn't notice before. Whatever. Don't beat yourself up about it. Don't hold onto it and feel irritated every time you look at it. Sell it for a low price, pack it off to Goodwill, give it away, take it to an auction or whatever .... just get rid of the darned thing. Don't let it take the fun out of your days.<br />
<br />
There are some really good articles about that book by the way. I have pinned those links on my <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/1stadream/magic-of-tidying-up-konmarie/"><i>Magic of Tidying Up</i> Pinterest board</a>. There are clutter articles on that board, too, but a large number tf the pins are just about what's called the "KonMari method". The book is a huge best seller. <br />
<br />
<b><span style="color: red;">UPDATE: </span></b> I had a reader comment on the Facebook page about this book. The reader hated the book and thought it was very poorly written. I was <u>not</u> shocked or insulted by the comment because I actually agree that it wasn't well written. <br />
<br />
This was part of my reply to her - <i>It's not writing at it's best. I agree on that. Further, I think it should have been made into a much shorter book. However, hidden within the fluff. there were some fantastic ideas. I've read a number of decluttering books over the years and I still found some real game changers in this book. If you were so put off that you didn't actually read the book, I recommend reading some articles online (free). I found a number of them that passed on some of the best advice very concisely.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
In other words, if the book is too danged fluffy and long for you, get on over to <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/1stadream/magic-of-tidying-up-konmarie/">my Kon-Mari Pinterest board</a> and read the articles. I did it backwards. I read all the articles, then bought the book because by that point I was sold on many of the concepts... not everything, but enough to make me a huge fan of her method.<br />
<br />Denise Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13389394184925325152noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7613749589938401721.post-381982690846548212015-09-14T12:15:00.000-07:002015-09-14T12:15:30.035-07:00I Can't Figure Out What Sold<b>The Problem:</b> You get the printout showing what sold for the month. Your tags were great - they had all the information you needed to keep your inventory accurate - item description, inventory number, price, and vendor number. Your writing was legible, but when you look at your printout, you can't figure out what sold. Whoever rang it up didn't bother with your inventory numbers. They didn't describe anything the way you did. They wrote <i>plate </i>or <i>vase</i> or <i>table </i>or <i>necklace</i> or sometimes no description at all. Unfortunately, you have a bunch of plates, vases, necklaces or whatever. Then you have to go to the mall and look through all the sale pages to figure out what sold. It happens month after month.<br />
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<br />
The thing is, when a store gets busy, whoever is working the cash register often feels pressured to hurry up. Things are skipped. OR there may be someone ringing up who is just plain lazy and doesn't bother adding what he/she thinks of as unnecessary details.<br />
<br />
Are you tired of it? Would you like a tip that helps you figure out what sold without having to try to change someone else's behavior? After years of going to the stores and hunting down my sales, I came up with a solution. It's so simple that it's ridiculous and I can't believe I didn't figure it out sooner.<br />
<br />
<b>The Solution:</b><br />
There are two things every cashier tries to be accurate about, even when in a hurry - the price and the vendor number. <br />
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Vendor Number - You need to make sure your vendor number is easy to read and is written in such a way that it won't get confused with another vendor's number or the price (<i>yes, that can happen</i>). <br />
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Price - At some malls, if a checkout person writes up the price incorrectly, they can get into trouble. They might even be charged. They ring up the price very carefully. That's the key to this trick. <br />
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Write your price with crazy numbers in the cents. Do not end it in .99. That's too common. If you were thinking of marking something $30 or $29.99, instead, write it up as $30.12. or $29.74. If you go UP a tad, you've made a little extra money without scaring off a customer. They still think of $30.12 as $30 when they are making a purchasing decision.<br />
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Further, let's say that $30.12 item was a platter. You have three other platters and you want to sell those for around $30 each, too. Mark them something different - $30.48, $29.88, and $30.27. <br />
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When each of those platters appear on your monthly printouts, you'll be able to figure out exactly which one sold and your inventory will be easy to keep up without having to dig through the store's sales pages. <br />
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PS - I apologize for going so long between posts, but I know many of you understand. Those of you who keep up with my posts probably remember my husband died in May. I'm trying to figure out how to make sense of my life. I write about that, as well as my husband's battle with cancer, in as positive a way possible on my other blog - <a href="http://rudyanddenise.blogspot.com/">Rudy and Denise</a>. You're welcome to read that if you are facing or have faced any similar issues (widowed or a caretaker). If you aren't, I recommend that you stay away from sad stuff and go kiss your loved ones. Be happy. Meanwhile, thanks to the many of you who have sent me sweet messages of encouragement over the last year. It's crazy how notes from people I've never actually met can mean so much. As for this blog, I really do intend to keep it going. I have a number of posts on my To-Do list that I plan to post in the future. I find it really helps to do little things that have nothing to do with loss and grief. Happy things. My <i>Vintage Show Off</i> posts make me happy. I like knowing I'm helping people. <br />
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<br />Denise Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13389394184925325152noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7613749589938401721.post-5756214661093504372015-06-19T08:19:00.000-07:002015-06-19T08:19:00.139-07:00Cluttered Booths and Changing StylesI recently visited a couple of out-of-town antique malls. It was interesting. One thing stood out - the clutter effect. Many of the booths that seemed the most cluttered were having sales - 20% or 30% off everything in the booth. The regular prices were low. It was obvious they were just concerned about low sales.<br />
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I'm sure there were treasures to be had, but it just looked like a mass of unwanted junk. I found myself standing in the aisle and doing a quick booth skim. I didn't even want to enter those booths. It looked like exactly what I want to steer clear of. I suspect many customers felt the same way and the poor vendors are no doubt thinking that if they just mark things down, those knick knacks will sell. <br />
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It also brought to mind something else that I have noticed more and more. About 5 years ago, having vintage smalls were all the rage -especially old kitchen items. Many people decorated with all sorts of things from especially the 40's and 50's. Magazine photos were full of photos examples of people who achieved the perfect vintage look.<br />
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Now, in those same magazines, you still see some vintage items but having too much now looks overdone and sad. There will likely always be a draw for vintage items, but the way they are used and showcased changes. A vendor needs to stay on top of the shifts in styles!<br />
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As I've said before, the next hot style doesn't seem to be here yet, but people know what they are tired of! Unless you are a specialty booth with continuing good sales, you need to make sure your booth isn't selling mostly what most people no longer want to see. Look through current magazines and popular Pinterest pins to see what is trending in terms of styles and colors. Keep your booth current and you won't have to have a booth wide clearance sale!Denise Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13389394184925325152noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7613749589938401721.post-27843250025403333922015-06-17T07:33:00.001-07:002015-06-17T07:33:06.967-07:00Closing a BoothOne benefit of having a booth is that there is a great deal of flexibility.<b> </b> You can work on it as much and as often as you like. You can even take a break from it entirely. That's exactly what I'm about to do. <b>At the end of this month, I am closing my booth.</b> I have no idea how long my break will last. I may even explore other selling options.<br />
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If you have been following this blog or my Facebook page, you may know that my husband died. After seeming perfectly strong and healthy, he was suddenly diagnosed with cancer back at the end of October. He died May 7th. As you can imagine, I am reeling. I find myself not even knowing who I am. We'd been married for 36-1/2 years and even though I considered myself to be a very independent person, it seems I was mistaken. I feel like half of me is gone.<br />
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In addition to the overwhelming emotions, there are tons of details to be taken care of when settling affairs. There are also tons of things I now take care of that my husband used to be in charge of. I find myself with absolutely no interest in having a booth, which is unexpected. I have more things than ever to sell, but just don't want to deal with keeping up a booth. A break is exactly what I need.<br />
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I won't be completely out of the biz. I will continue doing the Facebook page for Collectors' Corner. I hope to get back to more posts here, as well. Working on the computer in the evenings is therapeutic. It's work that feels more like play nd it keeps my mind from dwelling on sad things.<br />
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<b>Closing a Booth</b> - When you sign up to have a booth, you generally sign a contract and agree to keep your booth for at least a certain amount of time. Six months seems to be the norm. If you have a major life event, most store owners will work with you if you need to close a booth before that. If you want to close before your 6 months is up to move to another store or because you are just tired of it, that's not OK. You'll lose your deposit and you'll not be able to change your mind and come back in the future.<br />
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If you plan to close your booth, I highly recommend that you do everything you can to close on a positive note and on very good terms with the owner. Give AT LEAST 30 days notice. That's probably on your contract. No bad mouthing. Leave your booth looking clean and nice. Make sure it's completely empty before the last day of the month. Don't burn any bridges. Leave in a way that if you ever wanted to return, you'd be welcomed.<br />
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Most owners are used to vendors coming and going. It's the nature of the business. Even so, some owners may take it personally. Just do your best to stay on friendly terms. If the owner really likes you and is desperate to keep you around, he/she owner may even try to sweeten your deal. A popular mall with a vendor waiting list won't need to do that unless they consider your booth to be a major draw.<br />
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My exit will be easy. I had met my contract time. I have a good reason for leaving - a major life event. I gave more than 30 days notice. I will be sure to have <i>everything </i>out of my booth before the end of the month. Lori, the owner, was super nice about the whole thing. When I'm ready to come back, I feel certain I'll be welcome. I left my previous store on very good terms as well and still consider everyone there a friend. <br />
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<b>Clearance Sales - </b>You'll probably want to have a clearance sale so you won't have so much to lug home. You may want to mark some things down or you may want to mark everything down. <br />
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If you are having a sale, make BIG signs to put in your booth. Signs printed on standard size paper just aren't that effective, even if you have several of them scattered around your booth. Don't be lazy when you are having a sale. GO BIG! Spend a little time making an attention getting sign. It will pay off! A large chalkboard on an easel is my personal favorite, but there are other wonderful options. After you put out your sign, stand way back from your booth and see if you notice it.<br />
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<b>When to take things out of your booth </b>- If you are moving your booth from one store to another, you may want to do it all in one fell swoop, which is exhausting. Depending on your move in day at the new store, you may be able to do it all in one day. If there's a few days wait til your new space is available, then your options depend on your vehicles and storage.<br />
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If you are closing entirely and have to take things home, I highly recommend getting a head start. Start by bringing home the things you don't mind keeping. Leave things you seriously hope will sell til the end and make them look as fabulous as you possibly can!<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Even though I won't </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">have a booth, </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">at some point, </span></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">I will begin exploring </span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>other selling options</b> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">- Etsy, Ebay, yard sales, markets. </span> </div>
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I have sold on Ebay in the past, but, frankly, it's been a while. I have things to sell that would be a good fit for each of these venues. Each venue is a bit different. I'm not sure when I'll get started on that, but when I do, I plan to post about it. <br />
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I have said in the past that in this business, it helps to have other outlets for sales. For instance, sometimes, when you have a nice collectible item, you can sell it online faster and for more money than you might be able to in a booth.<br />
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<b>Part Time Booths</b> - I am taking a break because of life circumstances, but there are other business reasons where some people may benefit from having a short term booth - 6 months on (enough to fulfill the contract), followed by a break. The key is to figure out what you expect from this business and how to get it. Rent comes out every month regardless of whether you are selling or not. Some months are typically slow and may be a perfect time to take a break. April, May and June seem to be the slowest for me. Depending on what you sell and where you sell, you may have other months that are your worst. I have talked more about the part time booth concept in this post - <a href="http://vintageshowoff.blogspot.com/2014/09/a-short-term-booth.html">A Short Term Booth</a>.<br />
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<i>Now, I need to take my own advice - I still don't have a large fabulous sale sign in my booth. I guess I'd better get off the computer and get busy, right?</i><br />
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<br />Denise Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13389394184925325152noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7613749589938401721.post-61220264501080961272015-04-06T06:10:00.000-07:002015-06-17T08:21:39.679-07:00Trend Watch: Reducing ClutterOver the last few years, I have found myself longing for (and slowly working towards) a simpler life. My dream is to have a much smaller home with only the things that I love and find useful. I want more emphasis on making memories than storing keepsakes. <br />
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Obviously, I'm not alone in my quest. In fact, I'd say it's a trend that is growing. I recently came across a great article (you can read the entire article <a href="http://www.pressherald.com/2015/03/29/for-aging-baby-boomers-the-times-really-are-a-changin/">HERE</a>) that made me think of this trend in terms of having a booth. Baby boomers are wanting to get rid of their stuff, but their kids aren't wanting much of it because they want their lives to be simpler. <br />
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<span style="color: #999999; font-size: large;">“My parents are always trying to give us stuff,” says Kelly Phillips, 29, a real estate marketer. “It’s stuff like bunches of old photos and documents, old bowls or cocktail glasses. We hate clutter. We would rather spend money on experiences.”</span></blockquote>
Many baby boomers are downsizing and they have tons of things to get rid of. That's both good and bad. On one hand, picking is getting easier. On the other, the market is getting more and more over-saturated, which makes it harder for vendors to have good sales.<br />
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<span style="color: #999999; font-size: large;">Stephanie Kenyon, 60, the owner of Sloans & Kenyon Auctioneers and Appraisers, says the market is flooded with boomer rejects. “Hardly a day goes by that we don't get calls from people who want to sell a big dining room set or bedroom suite because nobody in the family wants it. Millennials don't want brown furniture, rocking chairs or silver-plated tea sets. Millennials don't polish silver.” The formal furniture is often sold at bargain prices, or if it’s not in good shape, it might go straight to the dump.</span></blockquote>
Should you throw in the towel? Not necessarily. You might just need to adjust your thinking a bit.<br />
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;"><b>Tip 1:</b></span> <b>Stock your booth mostly with things that people actually NEED.</b><br />
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There are certain things people will ALWAYS need. Even a minimalist needs a bed. Downsizing seniors have never been a vendor's key market, but even seniors sometimes need furniture. Their items may break or wear out after years of hard family abuse. OR, as they downsize, they may want to trade in their huge dining set for something smaller. OR, they may, like me, want to get rid of things they've made do with and replace them with things that are nicer.<br />
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Married couples are often in a constant state of change where home furnishings are concerned. As their families grow, so do their needs. Having a child means that child will likely need a bed, a side table and a chest of drawers. They may find that once their parents downsize, they are the ones having to host Thanksgiving dinners and they may need those larger tables.<br />
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Couples working from home may need a desk and shelves. It's usually not a petite little desk like most people used decades ago. It's a bit larger (without being overly heavy or massive) with room to work.<br />
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Young adults just moving out on their own have lots of needs. Often they start with hand-me-downs, but they're seldom satisfied with that. They are eager to redo and sport their own style.<br />
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;"><b>Tip 2:</b></span> <b>Beware of Clutter!</b> <br />
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Few people's <i>needs</i> include "clutter". When I say clutter, I am referring to things that are not useful. That includes collectibles, knick-knacks, tchotchkes and do-dads. It includes furniture that serves no purpose. <br />
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That doesn't mean they won't sell at all. But, many customers are choosier about their knick knacks. Tchotchkes that are pretty and trendy will continue to sell to most everyone but minimalists. Pretty decor inspiration photos can be found all over and there will always be people wanting to create similar beautiful vignettes in their home. These things often are not useful, but they are so pretty that customers still want them. If you can stock small decor that is both pretty <u>and </u>serves a purpose, it will probably sell very well.<br />
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;"><b>Tip 3: </b></span> <b>Don't overload your booth.</b> <br />
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It's wonderful to have a good selection of accessories in you booth, but if your booth looks too cluttered, you can actually turn off buyers who are working hard to create a comfortable, yet uncluttered look in their home. Ponder this... How many times have you walked past a booth that feels too cluttered and junky? How many times have you wandered into a booth that feels like you wish your home felt? <br />
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;"><b>Tip 4: </b></span> <b>Be VERY choosy when you are out picking. </b><br />
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Look for items that you could picture in a nicely done decor magazine photo. <br />
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Keep in mind that the vintage 1940's and 50's trend is not all that popular anymore. Magazines are seldom featuring kitchens with that once trendy, cutesy, vintage look. I fell in love with that look along with many others a few years back, but like many, I'm over it. Which brings me to my next tip:<br />
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;"><b>Tip 5: </b></span> <b>Watch decorating trends like a hawk and keep your booth current with what's hot.</b> <br />
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In fact, try to give your booth the look that your customers are wanting to create in their homes.<br />
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By the way, every vendor's goals are different. If you looked at my booth these days, you'd probably wonder why I'm not taking my own advice. My booth's soul purpose is to help me declutter. With very few exceptions, everything I am selling is coming straight out of my house, including plenty of things that I still love, but just don't need. My hubby and I are downsizer-wanna-be's. One day, everything we own will be moved to a very small, but wonderful home. When that day comes, I hope we have already pared down so the move will be easy. I hope to have gotten rid of everything that won't be both needed and loved in that cozy little home. Meanwhile, our current home will feel calmer and less cluttered. We probably aren't moving anytime soon, but by then, I hope to happily living with less.<br />
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<br />Denise Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13389394184925325152noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7613749589938401721.post-73871054711858919252015-04-01T07:40:00.001-07:002015-04-01T07:40:25.996-07:00Umbrellas as Booth Decor<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, 'ヒラギノ角ゴ Pro W3', 'Hiragino Kaku Gothic Pro', メイリオ, Meiryo, 'MS Pゴシック', arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">Watch for inexpensive patio umbrellas at yard sales. </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, 'ヒラギノ角ゴ Pro W3', 'Hiragino Kaku Gothic Pro', メイリオ, Meiryo, 'MS Pゴシック', arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">They are great eye-catching additions to indoor or outdoor booths.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, 'ヒラギノ角ゴ Pro W3', 'Hiragino Kaku Gothic Pro', メイリオ, Meiryo, 'MS Pゴシック', arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, 'ヒラギノ角ゴ Pro W3', 'Hiragino Kaku Gothic Pro', メイリオ, Meiryo, 'MS Pゴシック', arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">Remove the old icky fabric and redo them. You don't have to do an expert seamstress job. I have seen some examples where they draped, glued, and/or stapled fabric or lace tablecloths over the top and it looked fabulous. If the original umbrella fabric is in good shape, you might just add some interesting fringe or trim. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, 'ヒラギノ角ゴ Pro W3', 'Hiragino Kaku Gothic Pro', メイリオ, Meiryo, 'MS Pゴシック', arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, 'ヒラギノ角ゴ Pro W3', 'Hiragino Kaku Gothic Pro', メイリオ, Meiryo, 'MS Pゴシック', arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">Take a look at these examples - </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, 'ヒラギノ角ゴ Pro W3', 'Hiragino Kaku Gothic Pro', メイリオ, Meiryo, 'MS Pゴシック', arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><br /></span>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgivkvXMTQACPzOQSyLeYwItfFvS4BPbdU_hVtFORlIqaxUSZ0P5OKbKrEPPJAY16iUXS0KiG3HhjsXuWGvpxM3WYs9sbM9MalbsdUp2OdtyWM3FBoaqIZHNvN7kMdG0bwuC4ceMULaqnGX/s1600/06-cc204dcb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgivkvXMTQACPzOQSyLeYwItfFvS4BPbdU_hVtFORlIqaxUSZ0P5OKbKrEPPJAY16iUXS0KiG3HhjsXuWGvpxM3WYs9sbM9MalbsdUp2OdtyWM3FBoaqIZHNvN7kMdG0bwuC4ceMULaqnGX/s1600/06-cc204dcb.jpg" height="640" width="425" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.thefancyfarmgirl.com/">Source</a></td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, 'ヒラギノ角ゴ Pro W3', 'Hiragino Kaku Gothic Pro', メイリオ, Meiryo, 'MS Pゴシック', arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvT9rV-neKp9yVIqmoJ9DmAb3GnKa19r_s0oyDFWIpQsIMwkWCWBsVVy-hiBZ9hLaRLYO4wSCnYnrCXHeT4N_5IePH7yPB3hUhPRzu2xx6RCZc9wtJqhckaSZBCWcJntI3Wsn5pdyXInaX/s1600/chateaudefleurs-umbrella.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvT9rV-neKp9yVIqmoJ9DmAb3GnKa19r_s0oyDFWIpQsIMwkWCWBsVVy-hiBZ9hLaRLYO4wSCnYnrCXHeT4N_5IePH7yPB3hUhPRzu2xx6RCZc9wtJqhckaSZBCWcJntI3Wsn5pdyXInaX/s1600/chateaudefleurs-umbrella.jpg" height="492" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://chateaudefleurs.blogspot.com/2011/09/few-fun-and-fabulous-booth.html">Source</a></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgHVtCyjb6ZRtTZV3MFK7BfgQSE8fjSCZzOf4Deot9oAHP_17MIg1UMGBlo0X09aLQnGcfo2ut8pMo1tOL-yede5lgYDkOkX1BTX-XP8mdaMFRCCSvBQNluRuUR9-zpe2vdoAeMsCxA_sR/s1600/07-d80729f0f3a7f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgHVtCyjb6ZRtTZV3MFK7BfgQSE8fjSCZzOf4Deot9oAHP_17MIg1UMGBlo0X09aLQnGcfo2ut8pMo1tOL-yede5lgYDkOkX1BTX-XP8mdaMFRCCSvBQNluRuUR9-zpe2vdoAeMsCxA_sR/s1600/07-d80729f0f3a7f.jpg" height="640" width="436" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fadedcharmcottage.blogspot.com/">Source</a></td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, 'ヒラギノ角ゴ Pro W3', 'Hiragino Kaku Gothic Pro', メイリオ, Meiryo, 'MS Pゴシック', arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6gge3YSEHNbhD4lWyVP_05azBSEgNVP-YBahc6LcCDE5XuDYrd0BRg4WuyOH0aH9Y5jlaPFffGDAcJWeWdLQi_6jNg6p49VAzfOEpFT8QUABGAn4MEOQvn15PVcHpxROVEVsHWG5E-8fu/s1600/214676b474fe629762538a88fdcd9ef7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6gge3YSEHNbhD4lWyVP_05azBSEgNVP-YBahc6LcCDE5XuDYrd0BRg4WuyOH0aH9Y5jlaPFffGDAcJWeWdLQi_6jNg6p49VAzfOEpFT8QUABGAn4MEOQvn15PVcHpxROVEVsHWG5E-8fu/s1600/214676b474fe629762538a88fdcd9ef7.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://vignettesantiques.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2013-03-21T12:02:00-07:00&max-results=7">Source</a></td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, 'ヒラギノ角ゴ Pro W3', 'Hiragino Kaku Gothic Pro', メイリオ, Meiryo, 'MS Pゴシック', arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, 'ヒラギノ角ゴ Pro W3', 'Hiragino Kaku Gothic Pro', メイリオ, Meiryo, 'MS Pゴシック', arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, 'ヒラギノ角ゴ Pro W3', 'Hiragino Kaku Gothic Pro', メイリオ, Meiryo, 'MS Pゴシック', arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizNOzRpT7nUvTL7GKGXfN2oWdKdAGq-H3ke27xU7mWLoMTeRzGjZQk5_CtYH53N23eLAWH9Ubs1i12C640AZYUFItv5kjTe1IL41EG3cU-ycQhRgQW2-6qaKMcwKdspxVvGwKfSrFOwF8a/s1600/umbr-cfd6ebda.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizNOzRpT7nUvTL7GKGXfN2oWdKdAGq-H3ke27xU7mWLoMTeRzGjZQk5_CtYH53N23eLAWH9Ubs1i12C640AZYUFItv5kjTe1IL41EG3cU-ycQhRgQW2-6qaKMcwKdspxVvGwKfSrFOwF8a/s1600/umbr-cfd6ebda.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://thefarmchicks.typepad.com/farmchicks/the-farm-chicks-show/">Source</a></td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, 'ヒラギノ角ゴ Pro W3', 'Hiragino Kaku Gothic Pro', メイリオ, Meiryo, 'MS Pゴシック', arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlPb7cI65OogZtCjyU9M2ar5T73SjIIfrwi42i4jXsEIy0bwV6dkUqD9dbsIDgMirr0UH_WUEvLp-7VsWEieskGKDqxYMlfIK03Hkv86IY20RXbuP2Fu01wHJuQh64RyLtpZGWYpJTGIQM/s1600/0edd09587183b988402c93b4a32db791.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlPb7cI65OogZtCjyU9M2ar5T73SjIIfrwi42i4jXsEIy0bwV6dkUqD9dbsIDgMirr0UH_WUEvLp-7VsWEieskGKDqxYMlfIK03Hkv86IY20RXbuP2Fu01wHJuQh64RyLtpZGWYpJTGIQM/s1600/0edd09587183b988402c93b4a32db791.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.myhomeideas.com/room-galleries/bohemian-flair-patio">Source</a></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxCSMzx9Tc6tClhj-Ic85O9WUGeXgkm7B_2SnqvTtmv0mE25Nbc1dE4Aw2KVLWnuweTdV97oov8fSVZ3hvSh7QwLUOlJ4ishmOZh5MAA2He7JgNFVSmiA-46DuRvFnGDcRAb4vZIA4ISmm/s1600/52b3dd916b36e9aaffd56eb4354a1f22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxCSMzx9Tc6tClhj-Ic85O9WUGeXgkm7B_2SnqvTtmv0mE25Nbc1dE4Aw2KVLWnuweTdV97oov8fSVZ3hvSh7QwLUOlJ4ishmOZh5MAA2He7JgNFVSmiA-46DuRvFnGDcRAb4vZIA4ISmm/s1600/52b3dd916b36e9aaffd56eb4354a1f22.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Source Unknown :-( </td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, 'ヒラギノ角ゴ Pro W3', 'Hiragino Kaku Gothic Pro', メイリオ, Meiryo, 'MS Pゴシック', arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC3EApIvO9l0ZcNsxtIGZr-Z3MRhsnHM1OXbVDPWO4Ud42wcf0s466ERHshhuoFhoR0cqBrsg40j-k7toQnyXAKJwt8MO2X_pvHKRume4umTFgd3VN3IjCB9Qb-O0XFxhmFuvu0uEB93GV/s1600/2b9a2d87dc2468a11737154c79142d00.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC3EApIvO9l0ZcNsxtIGZr-Z3MRhsnHM1OXbVDPWO4Ud42wcf0s466ERHshhuoFhoR0cqBrsg40j-k7toQnyXAKJwt8MO2X_pvHKRume4umTFgd3VN3IjCB9Qb-O0XFxhmFuvu0uEB93GV/s1600/2b9a2d87dc2468a11737154c79142d00.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://vignettesantiques.blogspot.com/">Source</a></td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, 'ヒラギノ角ゴ Pro W3', 'Hiragino Kaku Gothic Pro', メイリオ, Meiryo, 'MS Pゴシック', arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjtNWyFvK1CaE-r_sOfn3qD9X7IYU8sR_Ud52k3ecymCwfQZZp8rEdMSlxYmebwJHObFme3zeSTabOXpSMiLfGmtvhmye0tCpuDVHOkRMo9PhI68j9pzjOnUJFMoNfhwbCPN2VoLVISlWm/s1600/12e95c5c01a35fb4203a622b87626bda.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjtNWyFvK1CaE-r_sOfn3qD9X7IYU8sR_Ud52k3ecymCwfQZZp8rEdMSlxYmebwJHObFme3zeSTabOXpSMiLfGmtvhmye0tCpuDVHOkRMo9PhI68j9pzjOnUJFMoNfhwbCPN2VoLVISlWm/s1600/12e95c5c01a35fb4203a622b87626bda.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://thevintagemarketplaceattheoaks.blogspot.com/2013/04/we-are-working-behind-scenes-here-is.html">Source</a></td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, 'ヒラギノ角ゴ Pro W3', 'Hiragino Kaku Gothic Pro', メイリオ, Meiryo, 'MS Pゴシック', arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVuIFLI62olmEM9TKJn-EBU_xmfEetXXjDx6nXg-4Bzavyps3idpfjb-D8nFhyphenhyphenbZK8N3ggTlTlUZ3e-ye_5GF9pqr3pRUetTBB9TrnHCPFzMsWPcQ-18iZ-iaNorZNkSiOG7XkYglUcqN_/s1600/b9e95619a61054a304d6deae42e3b172.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVuIFLI62olmEM9TKJn-EBU_xmfEetXXjDx6nXg-4Bzavyps3idpfjb-D8nFhyphenhyphenbZK8N3ggTlTlUZ3e-ye_5GF9pqr3pRUetTBB9TrnHCPFzMsWPcQ-18iZ-iaNorZNkSiOG7XkYglUcqN_/s1600/b9e95619a61054a304d6deae42e3b172.jpg" height="640" width="456" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fadedcharmcottage.blogspot.com/2014/05/farm-frills-show.html">Source</a></td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, 'ヒラギノ角ゴ Pro W3', 'Hiragino Kaku Gothic Pro', メイリオ, Meiryo, 'MS Pゴシック', arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, 'ヒラギノ角ゴ Pro W3', 'Hiragino Kaku Gothic Pro', メイリオ, Meiryo, 'MS Pゴシック', arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, 'ヒラギノ角ゴ Pro W3', 'Hiragino Kaku Gothic Pro', メイリオ, Meiryo, 'MS Pゴシック', arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">PS - I'm so sorry to have neglected my blog for so long. My husband is still battling lung cancer. He's hanging in there and about to start a fairly new treatment - immunotherapy. He's doing better than expected right now, thanks to wonderful doctors and the prayers of many - people we know and love and also from people we've never met. You are welcome to follow along on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/RudyandDenise">our facebook page</a> and/or <a href="http://rudyanddenise.blogspot.com/">our blog</a>. Rudy (my hubby) spends plenty of time each day sleeping in his recliner. When he's sleeping, I try to be still and quiet. The best quiet activity for me is to work on the computer - it's almost therapeutic. It's fairly easy to fit in quick posts to the VIntage Showoff Facebook Page, but I hardly ever have a good block of time (or energy) to do a full out post for the blog. I really love this blog, so I hope </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, 'ヒラギノ角ゴ Pro W3', 'Hiragino Kaku Gothic Pro', メイリオ, Meiryo, 'MS Pゴシック', arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">you'll all stick with me</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, 'ヒラギノ角ゴ Pro W3', 'Hiragino Kaku Gothic Pro', メイリオ, Meiryo, 'MS Pゴシック', arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"> as I try to keep posting now and then. Having someone you love diagnosed with cancer certainly is life-changing and it's not all in a bad way. I have found myself becoming more clear about what I need/want/like and what I don't. </span>Denise Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13389394184925325152noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7613749589938401721.post-72690058173022537842014-10-07T15:59:00.000-07:002014-10-07T15:59:04.788-07:00My New Booth - Part TwoIn <a href="http://vintageshowoff.blogspot.com/2014/10/im-going-to-have-booth-again.html">the previous post</a> I shared the news that I was going to have a booth again. I also showed before photos of the booth I chose. Today, the 3 main large pieces were moved in and I was able to make it look "like a booth", if you know what I mean. <br />
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I hope everyone's expectations aren't crazy high since I write a blog devoted to tips for making booths great. If you've read much of my blog, you may remember the post where I pointed out that <a href="http://vintageshowoff.blogspot.com/2014/01/quality-and-quantity-before-beauty.html">beauty isn't the most important priority in a successful booth</a>. Don't get me wrong. A beautiful booth is wonderful, but there has to be substance in it - namely things people want to buy at <a href="http://vintageshowoff.blogspot.com/2014/08/pricing-items-in-your-booth-tipping.html">prices that are not over the tipping point</a>. So, even though my booth is not the most memorable and won't likely be an inspiration photo for this blog, I am feeling pretty happy with it.<br />
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Here's the booth as you move towards it. You can actually approach from two slightly different paths, so I have two <a href="http://vintageshowoff.blogspot.com/2013/12/the-money-wall.html">money walls</a>. The hutch is my big statement piece. The oak desk is the piece I hope will sell first. It's big! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKIueppmDwi2DvMZ2IozAAY_4_8dWWUihkbrY0xX6Ah4gKbIiXrz8fDNpS7A0wlSHXyIX-6KbDaESRrUvt8jQxjKyVe92X7aiNzWYy1rdom-pv7nUJlSEMHy4KhhmvuVFuegx4-b0WKVjO/s1600/2014-10-07-103.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKIueppmDwi2DvMZ2IozAAY_4_8dWWUihkbrY0xX6Ah4gKbIiXrz8fDNpS7A0wlSHXyIX-6KbDaESRrUvt8jQxjKyVe92X7aiNzWYy1rdom-pv7nUJlSEMHy4KhhmvuVFuegx4-b0WKVjO/s1600/2014-10-07-103.jpg" height="640" width="478" /></a></div>
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Here's the booth straight on. I'd like a trendier rug. The carpet has flaws and the booth really needs a rug. This one is better than none, but I am definitely on the lookout for something better. I need to bring in more smalls. I don't plan on smothering the big furniture, but they do need some staging tweaking. There's a folding bakers rack near the window. I had intended to stuff it behind the hutch to hold smalls should any of the large pieces sell. Since I have the room, I decided to open it up and add smalls. Right now, all that's on it is a silver loving cup urn. More's coming soon.<br />
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The window behind the bakers rack was good for light, but not much else. The glass was hopelessly stained and dirty on the outside. The view is a parking lot and gas station. I needed a treatment that was easy and blocked the view but still let in light. I tore a drop cloth into strips and tied it onto the rod. Very casual. Neutral. Creative. Not original. I've seen this treatment used in all sorts of ways on Pinterest and favorite blogs.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxdzSGRH0vAQf8mLN8TtYrV_3ZVOorOEaZDMMPE9rmNe03g6Cndqje7iMRjEy9fM12k_T4n476bJOU-FyDFTifDqIwNJzBGDnYIwr5bltJWvBLg2OncrSRdG9BQSr-iv-NPlsMvshX-PNE/s1600/2014-10-07-094.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxdzSGRH0vAQf8mLN8TtYrV_3ZVOorOEaZDMMPE9rmNe03g6Cndqje7iMRjEy9fM12k_T4n476bJOU-FyDFTifDqIwNJzBGDnYIwr5bltJWvBLg2OncrSRdG9BQSr-iv-NPlsMvshX-PNE/s1600/2014-10-07-094.jpg" height="640" width="478" /></a></div>
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I have kept the <a href="http://vintageshowoff.blogspot.com/2014/05/staging-pays-for-itself.html">staging</a> on all the furniture simple. This hutch is my statement piece. I quickly put these plates in place. This was a super fast stage using what I had. It's a little too uncreative. The arrangement is so predictable. If the hutch stays around for a bit, which I suspect it will because hutches are slow sellers, I'll hopefully improve on the staging. it'll still be simple, but a little more creative than this.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXEiT47oD_HD0lq2oJZVL5qGjhBQ__h-qMOJ9S6rW-ql-o5t3RBoRh810IQHnCEsmIJ3Hgs-JY2TCPBNQazlmETgqIASAcKKV9FMDDPoXuiiv5D0y3-rTHaIMfodCTOx0bfW1VpoqDHb5U/s1600/2014-10-07-091.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXEiT47oD_HD0lq2oJZVL5qGjhBQ__h-qMOJ9S6rW-ql-o5t3RBoRh810IQHnCEsmIJ3Hgs-JY2TCPBNQazlmETgqIASAcKKV9FMDDPoXuiiv5D0y3-rTHaIMfodCTOx0bfW1VpoqDHb5U/s1600/2014-10-07-091.jpg" height="640" width="478" /></a></div>
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One item in my booth is large but NOT neutral This is a retro piece and I felt that painting it neutral was not the right thing to do. There are always exceptions to "the rules". I am very willing to break rules when it feels like the right thing to do. :-D Oh, the suitcase - I wanted it to be open. I'd like it to have some fun display inside, but for now, all I had was this sad little dictionary page pumpkin. <br />
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The turquoise tiered shelf is empty for now. I'm not sure what I'll put on it, but it needs something. Of note in this photo is the copper tin. Can you tell what's in there? OLD TABLE LEGS! I had a table that I wanted to get my money out of. It was a definite mistake purchase. My hubby could have spent hours trying to make it over. It wobbled. The top had messed up veneer. Even with lots of work, the table wouldn't sell for enough to be worth the time and effort. Much easier - sell off the good parts. The table had 5 legs. Two of them have already sold! The top will be used to make signs at some point in the future. It has real possibilities for that. And there's a great leaf that for some reason, is not veneer. The legs in the copper bin also serve to <i>hint</i> that the bin would be excellent for holding firewood. At least, that is my hope. <br />
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You'll notice I haven't created a theme booth. I haven't limited colors. I have things to sell and I didn't want any limits. I didn't want to feel obligated to paint things to match. I'm taking what I have and putting them together as well as I can. I am trying to make the furniture look as important as I can. <br />
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So, that's the booth so far. It has no ground-breaking decor. It's not swoon-worthy. This is a low-pressure, functional booth that will hopefully have decent sales. <br />
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I hope this post gives you a little peak into my thought process. I hope it puts you at ease in case you, too, prefer low pressure. I think it's a pretty decent booth. I watched as some customers shopped in the area. They went into my booth and looked around, even though there's still so little in there. That's a good sign! And bonus, a couple of customers looked very seriously at the retro console. One even took a phone photo!Denise Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13389394184925325152noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7613749589938401721.post-53325932709751066272014-10-03T02:31:00.000-07:002014-10-03T02:31:01.789-07:00I'm Going to have a Booth Again!Well. I knew I'd go back to having a booth again one day, but I didn't think it would be so soon. I didn't even make it a full year without one.<br />
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I have things to sell. I have found a number of new pieces for my house this year, which leaves me with extra furniture. Plus I'm de-cluttering (even the good stuff!) and having dreams of becoming a minimalist. (Like that will ever happen.) I pondered a number of different ways to sell things, but in the end, a booth seemed to be the way I like best.<br />
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I promote two different stores. I like them both. I like the people at both. I was open to having a booth at either location. There seemed to be roadblocks at one having to do with booth size and workdays. Everything seemed to fall into place easily at the other. I'm a firm believer that when you are on the right path things flow easily. When you are on the wrong path, things block you over and over. That goes totally against how some people believe - that you should work real hard to overcome obstacles. I believe obstacles (especially when there are several obstacles) are signs from above telling you that maybe you need to reconsider.<br />
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So, I'll be at <i>Collector's Corner</i> this time around. <br />
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I had several locations to choose from. The owner was willing to scoot things around to work me in. <br />
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The spot I chose is in an out of the way corner. It's upstairs. It's in a room that is a bit dark with dark paneling. It has two windows to work around, one of which has a less than stellar view. The ceiling is sloped and only 7 ft tall on one side. The carpet has a couple of bad wrinkles. The booth on one side has a bunch of clothes hanging very close to my booth - right on my <a href="http://vintageshowoff.blogspot.com/2013/12/the-money-wall.html">money wall</a>, no less! The opposite wall is lattice. Does any of that bother me? Not really.<br />
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Many vendors would question my sanity for choosing that spot, but <b>I THINK IT'S CHARMING</b> and has wonderful potential. Seriously! And I know - if I set up a nice booth with things people want, customers will find my booth. :-D I tell y'all that all the time and now I'm going to practice what I preach.<br />
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Here are some of the BEFORE pictures of my booth -<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibFNcW_fvaBXC9Skxz0jS9sIcFJQTmNT4w_-Syv5u8jCTbQDfiuvowuvcF4qSDGxzmyaRYCNaXRa-p5UuK0-Ltb3_lun6W4BU_wIiV9AS5ldYxDFz8G9CZ4bvUytABD8GoUl81nXqLvcn_/s1600/4-2014-09-30-114.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibFNcW_fvaBXC9Skxz0jS9sIcFJQTmNT4w_-Syv5u8jCTbQDfiuvowuvcF4qSDGxzmyaRYCNaXRa-p5UuK0-Ltb3_lun6W4BU_wIiV9AS5ldYxDFz8G9CZ4bvUytABD8GoUl81nXqLvcn_/s1600/4-2014-09-30-114.jpg" height="512" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWAJ-y9OzsltmVxVAWv4_GKTaBE7RJceU_5oeoqEqhyTQyqxwqGyd6owAcibm2qIRjCKd8YoeGrxLWALOElO4WnjpJABsyNUEl_BAJoAE4egMMnx6JWF1yPgOvKq5_UwSdqxaN78uuMFDQ/s1600/5-2014-09-30-116.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWAJ-y9OzsltmVxVAWv4_GKTaBE7RJceU_5oeoqEqhyTQyqxwqGyd6owAcibm2qIRjCKd8YoeGrxLWALOElO4WnjpJABsyNUEl_BAJoAE4egMMnx6JWF1yPgOvKq5_UwSdqxaN78uuMFDQ/s1600/5-2014-09-30-116.jpg" height="512" width="640" /></a></div>
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I already know pretty much where I'll be putting everything and what I'll be doing to remedy things that need help. I'll put down a rug. I'd like one that fills most of the booth, but for now, I'll be using what I have. I have a fun grain sack that will hang over the window with the bad view. It won't cover the whole window. It's light so it will be bright and cheerful. The other window will be left open. It looks out onto some trees. I have no idea what I'll do about the neighbor's clothing. One thing I will NOT do is complain to the owner or ask her to take them down. It's her booth. My booth is my own little world and that's all I can or should try to control. I'll do what I can to create a visual border so that no one thinks those clothes are part of my booth. It's a challenge and I don't have the answer to that one yet! It's a little complicated because I don't want to do anything that might block the view of my <a href="http://vintageshowoff.blogspot.com/2013/12/the-money-wall.html">money wall</a> :-D<br />
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I'm going to keep my booth life as simple as I can. It's not going to have a theme. I'm not restricting colors or styles. It probably won't be a booth that people will swoon over, but hopefully, they'll walk in, browse and see things they like. <br />
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Stay tuned. I should be moving in over the next week. In fact, instead of working on this post, I should be pricing and getting things ready!!!<br />
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PS - In this post I talked a good bit about the faults of this booth. I want to make it clear that most of this store is really pretty and the owner is incredibly talented. The store is huge and she's been working her way around improving one spot after another. I like that I'll (hopefully) be giving this sweet little spot a little TLC. I don't know why exactly, but even the first time I saw the booth, I was attracted to it. I didn't know it then, but <b>this was meant to be.</b>Denise Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13389394184925325152noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7613749589938401721.post-88516445136118711692014-09-29T06:00:00.000-07:002014-09-29T14:26:31.744-07:00A Short Term BoothNot every vendor wants to work at a crazy pace all year long keeping up a booth. Some would prefer to take it a little slower. <b> A part time booth could be the answer for many vendors.</b><br />
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One option is to only keep a booth open part of the year and use the rest of the year to gather and prepare and relax. Most malls want a contract for 6 months, so that's what I'll discuss here. I'm going to work up a little pretend example. Meet Doris. She has a booth for 6 months of every year.<br />
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Doris has a booth every year from October til the end of March. That seems to work best for her. During the months Doris has no booth she is able to devote her extra time to treasure hunting and fixing up. She spends many Fridays and Saturdays going to yard sales looking for bargains. She uses her other days to paint, clean, price and sort.<br />
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Doris likes to have nice vignettes in her booth, so as she begins to accumulate a nice pile of treasures, she begins looking for themes. She has storage space in her basement, so she can easily sort things into display groups. She looks for good color combinations and what items are used for. Kitchen things are put together. Desk items together. Bedroom items together. You get the idea, right?<br />
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As it gets closer to time to open, Doris has a pretty good idea of the order of her vignettes. She doesn't put everything in at once. Her booth needs to look pretty darned good for 5 of her 6 months. The last month (March) is her clearance sale month and people are more forgiving then.<br />
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Doris rents her booth for $200 a month. That's $1200 for 6 months. If she had a booth for 12 months, she'd spend $2400, so that's a pretty good savings. She'd also have to work a whole lot harder. Doris is a vendor who does it for fun and a little pocket money. The part time booth gives her more time to enjoy life while keeping her profits a tiny bit better. It gives her more time to relax and enjoy her family. Doris is not on the <i>high-speed-buy-sell treadmill</i> the whole year.<br />
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The "Doris Example" is a 6 months on, 6 months off plan. That's just one option. Some might want to have a booth from August to June - when their kids are in school. <br />
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<b>If you think this plan might work for you, </b></div>
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<b>there are some downsides to consider. </b></div>
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The riskiest part is finding a booth exactly when you need it. You should begin talking to mall owners a couple of months before you hope to start up. If a coveted booth opens sooner, it might be good to jump on it. Some years, you may not get a booth til a month or two after you planned to open. It's a risk. <br />
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The booth you get will likely not be in a prime location. It's more likely to be in an out-of-the way spot with bad lighting. Don't let that stop you. A good vendor can make lemonade out of lemons. If your booth has good stuff, it will sell. If it's displayed well, it will sell even better. <br />
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Some mall owners may not like that moving in and out. You might seem less serious. However, if you show them that you are bringing in great items that sell and are a wonderful booth vendor all around, they may be happy to have you on the terms you want. If all goes well, they will look forward to you returning each year.<br />
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Moving in and out of booths can be a hassle. <br />
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<b>Another option is to partner with a vendor friend.</b> You could find a booth you both like and instead of giving it up, the friend could take over. Some malls might want you to use the same vendor number. If so, you'd have to work together pretty well to split profits on payday. <br />
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During transition times, it might be nice for the leaving vendor to be able to remove things slowly and the incoming vendor could bring things in slowly. Or it may be that some things can be left in. Maybe just the large items are removed when the next person takes over. <br />
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Some malls might not like this plan. The owner may not realize that it's actually to their advantage. Every so many months, they'd have a fresh vendor with fresh merchandise. I usually recommend being very honest, but if you are going to use this plan, it might be best to let people assume the two of you are partners year round. No one needs to know your plan really except the two booth partners. There are all sorts of options for making this scenario work. <br />
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This whole idea of part time boothing highlights one key benefit to the life of a booth vendor. It's flexible! You make of it what you want. I love that. Denise Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13389394184925325152noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7613749589938401721.post-64977970794967541472014-09-26T20:11:00.000-07:002014-09-26T20:11:26.546-07:00Decorating for Fall without Traditional Colors<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
A reader commented on the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/vintageshowoff">Vintage Show Off Facebook page</a> the other day that she doesn't care for the typical fall colors. Decorating her booth for Fall just isn't that easy. I have several thoughts on that.</div>
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First, if all the booths around you have traditional colors and you work up a display using alternative colors, if it's pretty enough, it could be a big hit. It will certainly stand out from the crowd.<br />
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Also, holiday and seasonal decor doesn't HAVE to be incorporated. I know plenty of vendors who never use seasonal items. There are many practical reasons for doing that. For one, some vendors just don't have the storage space.<br />
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If you WANT to display for Fall or Halloween, but hate the oranges and reds, just look for some creative alternatives. It's a good idea to not get too carried away with items you hope to sell. Make sure that whatever you are selling could also be used by a customer who adores red and orange. For instance, if you create a black and white look in your booth, the black and white items could still be used with fall decor in traditional colors. On the other hand, if you created a pastel Fall look, not as many customers could use any of the pastel items you were selling. If the pastel items are mostly display to make your booth look great, then go for it! It would certainly grab attention.<br />
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I did some quick looking through my files and here are a few inspiration photos I found to help those who prefer to steer clear of orange and red. I used the <a href="http://letschipit.com/">Sherwin Williams Chip It tool</a> with the first one to clearly show the colors. I love that tool!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgzb2ZcuQWbzwPeEx8wimB7TyWkeiQLawRDcRvCWXKv99m7DPy4lZwGAJQPLgot3_lBg2W3qSfWp0vePLu8aChvaXmKOpFL3ZkqcIYBM34VpYwJFaesz_1HW1SRoi_6Ta_0knVPiIdXNv-/s1600/LLjMfi_full2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgzb2ZcuQWbzwPeEx8wimB7TyWkeiQLawRDcRvCWXKv99m7DPy4lZwGAJQPLgot3_lBg2W3qSfWp0vePLu8aChvaXmKOpFL3ZkqcIYBM34VpYwJFaesz_1HW1SRoi_6Ta_0knVPiIdXNv-/s1600/LLjMfi_full2.jpg" height="550" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://junkyardnow.blogspot.com/2011/10/fun-mazza-cool-living-great-halloween.html">Photo Source</a></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0LpXvl07GqpvMk0vhdZLK_v_Z7UqZxfrZ5dElD-oFW_QsM6e91a6UYlN0jozav_6MYpn_xv_5UiAV4w6ZOHi9Nc0Vm7A42uwfwpScTuGt3yhrTvrQnJPhy6zP5ZgCZxOOZiERg-S-I_KR/s1600/bd24cfd73a76a1ce771bb3c1849bd643.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0LpXvl07GqpvMk0vhdZLK_v_Z7UqZxfrZ5dElD-oFW_QsM6e91a6UYlN0jozav_6MYpn_xv_5UiAV4w6ZOHi9Nc0Vm7A42uwfwpScTuGt3yhrTvrQnJPhy6zP5ZgCZxOOZiERg-S-I_KR/s1600/bd24cfd73a76a1ce771bb3c1849bd643.jpg" height="568" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.founddesign.co/">Source</a></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBQuMFAEXX9eZXPfonijOYOMBDRLahGIYfQGgxkbLA1Ron5v7tttonujV4GSHHe3_EcXgj6WgS0caeR9_95ZRmvm_wWgqguaz9jsiL7WkkGT422mz89F2I3-Lt6gLsAsNG5z_JCqFfyi9W/s1600/fd5c91be2743208bfb041bdafca05b8c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBQuMFAEXX9eZXPfonijOYOMBDRLahGIYfQGgxkbLA1Ron5v7tttonujV4GSHHe3_EcXgj6WgS0caeR9_95ZRmvm_wWgqguaz9jsiL7WkkGT422mz89F2I3-Lt6gLsAsNG5z_JCqFfyi9W/s1600/fd5c91be2743208bfb041bdafca05b8c.jpg" height="640" width="384" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://liagriffith.com/decorating-my-front-porch-for-fall/?crlt.pid=camp.ykd4L0Zf976J">Source</a></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMSuruejT3_LQWHfa6pjdvCgMoZ5ZkrztIhGbm9gBKdOZjqtMAnG88GJiXey-X9psdStSQVj4FmPYQ_cau69g_ZKYZ6PFgRpSYnBvbqfaFcyg5pfYBVqW4qISJUun9jWTyZctUcINT2rmO/s1600/2c7f99db1e0822531f6dcc020a78009c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMSuruejT3_LQWHfa6pjdvCgMoZ5ZkrztIhGbm9gBKdOZjqtMAnG88GJiXey-X9psdStSQVj4FmPYQ_cau69g_ZKYZ6PFgRpSYnBvbqfaFcyg5pfYBVqW4qISJUun9jWTyZctUcINT2rmO/s1600/2c7f99db1e0822531f6dcc020a78009c.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.the36thavenue.com/thanksgiving-table-escape">Source</a></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYikYY6DdN9MXEMY28pmEcHip7h0EJPAT-7yyJaEQ6JmqpE0rxH25jy45wb0FmYRGi43JSSaONWRRHLpoYYdraf54KlfVHH03PVHsMW0roRWug7DnSYyx6iv1KrPKz2grwsYulf3LRYGrE/s1600/b0c57e578f9eb3c3633027978e472614.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYikYY6DdN9MXEMY28pmEcHip7h0EJPAT-7yyJaEQ6JmqpE0rxH25jy45wb0FmYRGi43JSSaONWRRHLpoYYdraf54KlfVHH03PVHsMW0roRWug7DnSYyx6iv1KrPKz2grwsYulf3LRYGrE/s1600/b0c57e578f9eb3c3633027978e472614.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/Sweet.Salvage">Source</a></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPILUE2gRDQ3gG5qKy9sr517uOE6TCvS8YYPZ6Hzcar41SRL5dC2o3-7kRaGxTIQ3dXFPXw0iNVux0WSh7do8dK1YFwsm-4QAHGssJRsmD1i_lgHWTWM5THvZ5Hn7YzjxnXZMSUFB1lUi-/s1600/279effdba37e17f659a9448703905489.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPILUE2gRDQ3gG5qKy9sr517uOE6TCvS8YYPZ6Hzcar41SRL5dC2o3-7kRaGxTIQ3dXFPXw0iNVux0WSh7do8dK1YFwsm-4QAHGssJRsmD1i_lgHWTWM5THvZ5Hn7YzjxnXZMSUFB1lUi-/s1600/279effdba37e17f659a9448703905489.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/thechicadeeshop?ref=unav_listing-r">Source</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOnVuLT4pLfL9D2XXsPAYbKFhq9QjTvJCiFxEMRSASIbAziou8CHIO_GmOR0nV1308VH1sDs5GNP9jCk15wwIuZG5uGHoVXL_FGOVacPbrJkMcio353ick0EuRYJZvRi281FZ5IQAWZApv/s1600/ac0f08ebd3aac6d7f429d9822e423a25.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOnVuLT4pLfL9D2XXsPAYbKFhq9QjTvJCiFxEMRSASIbAziou8CHIO_GmOR0nV1308VH1sDs5GNP9jCk15wwIuZG5uGHoVXL_FGOVacPbrJkMcio353ick0EuRYJZvRi281FZ5IQAWZApv/s1600/ac0f08ebd3aac6d7f429d9822e423a25.jpg" height="640" width="490" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.completely-coastal.com/2012/09/making-fabric-pumpkins-no-sew-tutorial.html">Source</a></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikD3rpYApe8k3VQz7Uv3xa6w6gr_TNQcC3nPJG6zXZFiXUXI2INbpKlIvOX3FNu_qRjBqWCnTrDnQMCBCvB2r6LzBq_G08tAoRPDFjggLfIscH3oBB9bGmn9I6Z3qDr89jzIYBm0Z6uanh/s1600/a4b3e0992d987e6be689aea55a0532ff.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikD3rpYApe8k3VQz7Uv3xa6w6gr_TNQcC3nPJG6zXZFiXUXI2INbpKlIvOX3FNu_qRjBqWCnTrDnQMCBCvB2r6LzBq_G08tAoRPDFjggLfIscH3oBB9bGmn9I6Z3qDr89jzIYBm0Z6uanh/s1600/a4b3e0992d987e6be689aea55a0532ff.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://indulgy.com/post/AlwDmtVe12/halloween-table-decorations">Source</a></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFbLpxcna1GrprQT6ZvfBdkrx6r3uMLxLn1OTqtSpqx1GFAmPfmvvDVWps9x8RdE_lYgcUaITKCg8kFLeopLEdxupd89Q2xpv6drcbsMgNm_4998PLXThD2ckAllY5mQNCtZpTVyAJQZTn/s1600/908f017778c4312bc9af6d4c31c8d607.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFbLpxcna1GrprQT6ZvfBdkrx6r3uMLxLn1OTqtSpqx1GFAmPfmvvDVWps9x8RdE_lYgcUaITKCg8kFLeopLEdxupd89Q2xpv6drcbsMgNm_4998PLXThD2ckAllY5mQNCtZpTVyAJQZTn/s1600/908f017778c4312bc9af6d4c31c8d607.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.bystephanielynn.com/2011/09/50-different-pumpkin-crafts-for-fall-minus-the-real-pumpkins-saturday-inspiration-and-ideas.html">Source</a></td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQuLbQkbLX-T2XBpjB3GvIPqXIhtnpaTcAA6P8wVmvKxhMmRlnWRAGsXZBxJIYB7N1bOn4TXr8XMal2B0X5e_RpuPGEhwmAHgJXrB1KDO91RdY3Q3uKmrRVLkHeqcp-mxsgMdmBOMFo7-G/s1600/7982d05a02eeeb5b8583f2e254a27c77.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQuLbQkbLX-T2XBpjB3GvIPqXIhtnpaTcAA6P8wVmvKxhMmRlnWRAGsXZBxJIYB7N1bOn4TXr8XMal2B0X5e_RpuPGEhwmAHgJXrB1KDO91RdY3Q3uKmrRVLkHeqcp-mxsgMdmBOMFo7-G/s1600/7982d05a02eeeb5b8583f2e254a27c77.jpg" height="640" width="488" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Source Unknown</i> - If anyone knows it, please let me know!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzII7AnRKhzDHL3Oh0oCb0gIzmNULCq85YQRHBwRuR4mtP7n5u6gXNgtl5-Hjk2R9hHqEEvlBiohAgc6ldijWZwMBIvABZW95GNBcsp22hO7r6AzTyVkmP-PExe86F0WUpUYU1QYsdNCmW/s1600/edea9515e2bf0d87ec082218c66ac763.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzII7AnRKhzDHL3Oh0oCb0gIzmNULCq85YQRHBwRuR4mtP7n5u6gXNgtl5-Hjk2R9hHqEEvlBiohAgc6ldijWZwMBIvABZW95GNBcsp22hO7r6AzTyVkmP-PExe86F0WUpUYU1QYsdNCmW/s1600/edea9515e2bf0d87ec082218c66ac763.jpg" height="640" width="456" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.thehomesihavemade.com/2013/09/a-turquoise-gold-fall-display.html#_a5y_p=995817">Source</a></td></tr>
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That's all for now. Keep watching over on the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/vintageshowoff">VSO Facebook page</a> for more ideas!</div>
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Denise Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13389394184925325152noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7613749589938401721.post-42740851607913518932014-09-18T21:25:00.001-07:002014-09-18T21:26:08.780-07:00Another Way to Find Booth InspirationWhen you are looking for inspiration for your booth, don't just look at photos of pretty booths. You can find inspiration from all sorts of photos. The photo might help you with a unique color combination. It might give you ideas for putting seemingly unrelated things together. It might inspire you to display something you have in a way that shows customers another use for the item. Keep your eyes open! <br />
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Also, anytime you see something that makes your heart race, pay attention! Figure out if there's any way you might translate that in your booth.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhJ1yoSuEpXy9Q63uH1gLQcKdcuErYxT5-luTS2ufMjbsH1mL34PGtDqyJu1s4Xss8P6wmsQkoETaOXQU0_gqkUmGlFGA6sUSl9Q5ehRRBXL6nw4UOcQKEuBEqaI5Y4T467wfsw3Yfnb9T/s1600/inspiration-photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhJ1yoSuEpXy9Q63uH1gLQcKdcuErYxT5-luTS2ufMjbsH1mL34PGtDqyJu1s4Xss8P6wmsQkoETaOXQU0_gqkUmGlFGA6sUSl9Q5ehRRBXL6nw4UOcQKEuBEqaI5Y4T467wfsw3Yfnb9T/s1600/inspiration-photo.jpg" height="398" width="400" /></a></div>
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I recently came across this photo on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/263043153828491/photos/a.263045110494962.68568.263043153828491/521920107940793/?type=1">Junkin Addict</a>. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbQ4lNeozrrmSWfJUzqw1E3LEv3kyAghFybjm3mP9cIiH-8U2UAittmZwzCROUT1uUWLEuUWiDVqkewkkMHvwOY-GsprPDrs5z6H0Gh4y_ePGoAgF1r91LyusQ3ieaXgaObTsOLHYXFHIR/s1600/10379956_521920107940793_2223583651450283630_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbQ4lNeozrrmSWfJUzqw1E3LEv3kyAghFybjm3mP9cIiH-8U2UAittmZwzCROUT1uUWLEuUWiDVqkewkkMHvwOY-GsprPDrs5z6H0Gh4y_ePGoAgF1r91LyusQ3ieaXgaObTsOLHYXFHIR/s1600/10379956_521920107940793_2223583651450283630_o.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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Even though this is not a look I have going in my own home, the photo stopped me in my tracks. It's not a booth photo, but I immediately began to think how a similar vignette could be created in a booth. If I still had a booth, I'd print the photo and put it on a box or on a shelf where I kept my stash. As I went to yard sales and estate sales, etc. I'd keep an eye out for things in these colors and with this feel. When I had a bench or table to paint, I'd paint it in this soft blue. Maybe I could even find some realistic fake pink geraniums. Real geraniums would be so much better, but few booths have good windows, so they wouldn't last. Fakes CAN be used in limited amounts without being tacky. By Spring, I'd have a grouping to put together in my booth. <br />
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Finding inspiration that speaks to you and planning ahead can really pay off. Could you put together a booth vignette based on any of these non-booth photos?<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDJVazAHJB4SZwWG_QwyIr69hDfwKPF331Jyei_v9Nqd1wDoY7CANKO0plurTPCidFsBvThwe9JITkI0GC3ZIW75aEm2RtzerMSAUniZwuIhuLxpqB7UiYIvjWscg3igSAVoRQFobcmjHQ/s1600/dcbb7a943f6f84a19840ab2bf503d18e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDJVazAHJB4SZwWG_QwyIr69hDfwKPF331Jyei_v9Nqd1wDoY7CANKO0plurTPCidFsBvThwe9JITkI0GC3ZIW75aEm2RtzerMSAUniZwuIhuLxpqB7UiYIvjWscg3igSAVoRQFobcmjHQ/s1600/dcbb7a943f6f84a19840ab2bf503d18e.jpg" height="640" width="411" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.juliausher.com/gallery/categories/category/tabletops">Source</a></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSqh2pp6wR1oqC1xCJ-dCXralEfvxtpHGSOQ6Qijis9Ox_12BploYdNQ7fk0yFiGWbqGT1urkJXo9ZGOTdTX32Tdk_dWaw_95vGzW8hgz7EcaCsDoZhFQUS9NpyZP9AD8pQtajbDXnebxF/s1600/178ff767651acc5d4b5946dd57cc6e16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSqh2pp6wR1oqC1xCJ-dCXralEfvxtpHGSOQ6Qijis9Ox_12BploYdNQ7fk0yFiGWbqGT1urkJXo9ZGOTdTX32Tdk_dWaw_95vGzW8hgz7EcaCsDoZhFQUS9NpyZP9AD8pQtajbDXnebxF/s1600/178ff767651acc5d4b5946dd57cc6e16.jpg" height="400" width="337" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://paddingtonway.blogspot.com/2014/06/tufted-ottoman-before-after.html">Source</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF1DuZrZiZAA9OIFzs9DOO4kRpBAk65dJzsm8PVJPSBlKzyykb8LgyOGD7wE7H_Q9lwdpEIyPr-iFFXV4fcHwyyXoAP4OAUPzms4G37Q0J1u4TadnPmYLeZ5BnlanlVFFAAQiI8YRnC3gY/s1600/95696fcdb8780dcd7b2fe97292a6f623.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF1DuZrZiZAA9OIFzs9DOO4kRpBAk65dJzsm8PVJPSBlKzyykb8LgyOGD7wE7H_Q9lwdpEIyPr-iFFXV4fcHwyyXoAP4OAUPzms4G37Q0J1u4TadnPmYLeZ5BnlanlVFFAAQiI8YRnC3gY/s1600/95696fcdb8780dcd7b2fe97292a6f623.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://knickoftime.net/2014/06/guest-cottage-room-reveal-in-an-old-farmhouse-shed.html">Source</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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If you find a photo with colors you love, you could use the <a href="http://letschipit.com/">Chip It </a>tool from Sherwin Williams to help you lock in on the most important colors. I love that tool!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTTXgM6hdgmA4UbwqzVIfElbs1EqMqomvR-fa4zh5TF_7Baku02z9OvgLnbrxx8diXCq8laPFYXmgIjaxD9sTuy4HBphHX1DbRpWtqCsL5NnSvDAvviAv9UXr6IpOqvBVFyriCpm_pBBJ2/s1600/3ae9d935a354e03a1d3f572e5e39959c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTTXgM6hdgmA4UbwqzVIfElbs1EqMqomvR-fa4zh5TF_7Baku02z9OvgLnbrxx8diXCq8laPFYXmgIjaxD9sTuy4HBphHX1DbRpWtqCsL5NnSvDAvviAv9UXr6IpOqvBVFyriCpm_pBBJ2/s1600/3ae9d935a354e03a1d3f572e5e39959c.jpg" height="400" width="337" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://letschipit.com/Chip/8wzZas/">Source</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Here's another interesting color combination. The purple is a little unexpected, don't you think? These colors could be fun right now. You may even have what you need to put a grouping with these colors together in your booth right now.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0OE4PMyEOzdCoXagbsfK1aQW2_9visRoFjsVFsOkG3nhabbPbpuoe7dX2LXM0MBtGAl89L4DdqB1xmL0h6jLEwNaP816lJny6M7BlOG5eWkHA9x74qKO8N7J8xyZfAw3WcDWOgx2vzOna/s1600/e7469bff10d7891b4afe61f5c9c02df8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0OE4PMyEOzdCoXagbsfK1aQW2_9visRoFjsVFsOkG3nhabbPbpuoe7dX2LXM0MBtGAl89L4DdqB1xmL0h6jLEwNaP816lJny6M7BlOG5eWkHA9x74qKO8N7J8xyZfAw3WcDWOgx2vzOna/s1600/e7469bff10d7891b4afe61f5c9c02df8.jpg" height="400" width="326" /></a></div>
And here's another -<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwzW25_07aZPETxVMtDBOpiTr3M6SOQap8jpFmGZhsQnohS5tcf38QNA9aK9L1iNOj_Wdh6pTSCOd2pslIYbF73Pv1u5B1gLV_j9vAYPXa09rOCwRsLfyN93eWlaGW6vBPi5J5WPRlSrEW/s1600/cc76e0b09ef7ce34df48ed5337acc232.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwzW25_07aZPETxVMtDBOpiTr3M6SOQap8jpFmGZhsQnohS5tcf38QNA9aK9L1iNOj_Wdh6pTSCOd2pslIYbF73Pv1u5B1gLV_j9vAYPXa09rOCwRsLfyN93eWlaGW6vBPi5J5WPRlSrEW/s1600/cc76e0b09ef7ce34df48ed5337acc232.jpg" height="295" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://letschipit.com/Chip/KCpu9h/">Source</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />Denise Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13389394184925325152noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7613749589938401721.post-83715505941024119932014-09-16T05:00:00.000-07:002014-09-16T05:00:00.132-07:00Creative Booth Wall from Book PagesThis is a booth wall created with book pages. You can read all about it <a href="http://curioussofa.blogspot.com/2007/01/puttin-on-ritz.html">here on the Curious Sofa blog</a>. You'll have to scroll down to get to the section about this wall. Don't scroll too quickly. Its a best of 2007 post and it's full of good stuff that you'll still love in 2014 and beyond!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAoX4r0ju8a3hVsxTXWeXDSXdULp7l14SnlxBpdSLltyrGIWAuiBRXTQbVgUNf9migs0sc3vPJKu4lD5M99h62Q4wuDVWARk8Es8Uh17s385ycHcx-zQnC0R2SvQvtOMDD-olUvsscy50s/s1600/D6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAoX4r0ju8a3hVsxTXWeXDSXdULp7l14SnlxBpdSLltyrGIWAuiBRXTQbVgUNf9migs0sc3vPJKu4lD5M99h62Q4wuDVWARk8Es8Uh17s385ycHcx-zQnC0R2SvQvtOMDD-olUvsscy50s/s1600/D6.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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She used old book pages and printed images of birds and butterflies on them suing her home printer.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiUZxIIUaal_cdFTWoP4mWYdFMGyxSmzJYlF7EQByPXs-QQVnBYLSljAnhX-_S8eHT7WWamo2W3aez3mU3FaCTwXPZb7nzmFaPWb2dPynazPnwU1X9jQzrXIGwt6WqPry8xRbEZj28q8PB/s1600/D11.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiUZxIIUaal_cdFTWoP4mWYdFMGyxSmzJYlF7EQByPXs-QQVnBYLSljAnhX-_S8eHT7WWamo2W3aez3mU3FaCTwXPZb7nzmFaPWb2dPynazPnwU1X9jQzrXIGwt6WqPry8xRbEZj28q8PB/s1600/D11.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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She punched four holes in each page, used hole reinforcers on the backs of each hole and attached the pages with 5 inch strands of crochet thread.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqIVFPNI6CM4LDX2pwpXBbbqyV84UgAMNzYoFEbBB_u1BuShgELrkR4yZerVRcyauGZqlyj_MiMGzF-lLgtChOIRJ-siwC3Gv8rmn0sY7SyesZ0gLta8dtvaCO4x9NzySzeXUiCAWQAgCV/s1600/D4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqIVFPNI6CM4LDX2pwpXBbbqyV84UgAMNzYoFEbBB_u1BuShgELrkR4yZerVRcyauGZqlyj_MiMGzF-lLgtChOIRJ-siwC3Gv8rmn0sY7SyesZ0gLta8dtvaCO4x9NzySzeXUiCAWQAgCV/s1600/D4.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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She attached each row of pages to a board at the top of the wall, using tiny eye hooks.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0y0h_JN_ufBHP5kbuAglkDJQ1W1IhskBqJkPCf_Ic66cTq_Uzj0YN4tBBok5xejBUdFdX1OfX5eL3NQ_r-y55DF-2d3hJTNxme3I327ya-GT2L111Oz3TqS4BLmkcQU7s7saoHCPateCO/s1600/D5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0y0h_JN_ufBHP5kbuAglkDJQ1W1IhskBqJkPCf_Ic66cTq_Uzj0YN4tBBok5xejBUdFdX1OfX5eL3NQ_r-y55DF-2d3hJTNxme3I327ya-GT2L111Oz3TqS4BLmkcQU7s7saoHCPateCO/s1600/D5.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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More details can be found on <a href="http://curioussofa.blogspot.com/2007/01/puttin-on-ritz.html">her blog page</a>. <br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i>She did three walls of her booth, </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i>but you could make </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i>quite an impact </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i>doing something similar </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i>on just one wall </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i>or even </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i>just behind one vignette.</i> </span> </div>
Denise Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13389394184925325152noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7613749589938401721.post-59648737939320264072014-09-14T13:01:00.001-07:002014-09-14T13:10:36.995-07:00A Fabulous Pallet WallThe other day, I posted a few inspiration photos of pallet board walls on the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/vintageshowoff">Vintage Show Off Facebook page</a>. One reader left a comment with a photo of the pallet wall she and her booth partner created for a booth. WOW! I was blown away and so were the other readers who saw it. I didn't want that little gem to be buried in the comments, so I asked her to send me more photos AND SHE DID! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ0gBbf8ZZZWN0jiMC-wF0HLdmLAOJ7jwItdLMEsZEqsMiHagyxDPuyuBrXOSpGDeKhyxhwVo4ewVuvvQP1jA6v0wYPW8WFSFO4iTRVzNMvA0cFexbVuC8_xc4Zyk1XzGSH_9d2x6Wq-5W/s1600/10668458_10204078047904166_109676360_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ0gBbf8ZZZWN0jiMC-wF0HLdmLAOJ7jwItdLMEsZEqsMiHagyxDPuyuBrXOSpGDeKhyxhwVo4ewVuvvQP1jA6v0wYPW8WFSFO4iTRVzNMvA0cFexbVuC8_xc4Zyk1XzGSH_9d2x6Wq-5W/s1600/10668458_10204078047904166_109676360_n.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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"She" is Brooke and her partner is Steph. They have a booth together at On the Corner in Broken Arrow, OK. Visit them on their facebook pages - <a href="https://www.facebook.com/maxandconnie">Max and Connie</a> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Gypsies-Junk/670516749692131?sk=photos_stream">Gypsie's Junk</a>. If you have questions about their wall, I'm sure they'd be happy to answer. And for heaven's sakes, while you're there, give them a few LIKEs and leave some comments. Be sure to thank them both for sharing!!!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrDOxLSUR0gp1d2s75iNKlWvS76mJu1oMb6px8Kuj_-iprCc9Dc0mm5bCxNus1WAnq9VBL1_yIL7J3AHrBA-wQ_uMAOqOgxY0bGAkOXSN8h2J4s9rZ0ia5DYGeQQnVh4B2vg48Bilj-Vi0/s1600/10551052_684298208313985_3763311312266816273_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrDOxLSUR0gp1d2s75iNKlWvS76mJu1oMb6px8Kuj_-iprCc9Dc0mm5bCxNus1WAnq9VBL1_yIL7J3AHrBA-wQ_uMAOqOgxY0bGAkOXSN8h2J4s9rZ0ia5DYGeQQnVh4B2vg48Bilj-Vi0/s1600/10551052_684298208313985_3763311312266816273_n.jpg" height="400" width="298" /></a></div>
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Here's a booth shot -<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT4SNwZYcSSE_coVJd2YzI8aZBRAonemby2r9xW-w2bZQBlU5QOTLX0h_HmNC_Ci_tmniFM8BI_SLHEZrQaq4Gka-1HyNQqQZsrWuasyHm9GkOQM2jVRVtv04Y4ZmMz2N_SeKtGv65EffC/s1600/10383648_1523736137858542_1689221729988016315_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT4SNwZYcSSE_coVJd2YzI8aZBRAonemby2r9xW-w2bZQBlU5QOTLX0h_HmNC_Ci_tmniFM8BI_SLHEZrQaq4Gka-1HyNQqQZsrWuasyHm9GkOQM2jVRVtv04Y4ZmMz2N_SeKtGv65EffC/s1600/10383648_1523736137858542_1689221729988016315_n.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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How'd they do it? Brooke said, "We painted and stained some, decoupaged with tissue paper, scrap book paper, napkins, fabric, magazine clippings and wrapping paper. A few are embellished with knobs, hooks and fabric flowers."<br />
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Do you see the little knobs on some of those boards?!?!?!?!?!!!!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgBm6eVzN3CYObnFrBGssViS-CZvKpWVTOI2qD4VmZv1KQt-d6-ArBNJ7mwEMehjekT_BYDBT29BZpN6K4JO2gkX6jfb9n-wQVIPfC5O5d6Jw1lpmXaIPWFS-x8___WrvIRHbX46JNc_o-/s1600/10668584_10204078046264125_76153802_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgBm6eVzN3CYObnFrBGssViS-CZvKpWVTOI2qD4VmZv1KQt-d6-ArBNJ7mwEMehjekT_BYDBT29BZpN6K4JO2gkX6jfb9n-wQVIPfC5O5d6Jw1lpmXaIPWFS-x8___WrvIRHbX46JNc_o-/s1600/10668584_10204078046264125_76153802_n.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBM-crzAzpYk7c9WUQ36wgtgi74jqpWAk8t2hGqAlZnJilEvolCKUaOha5BT9keDk8P2G3GN4RKsE_OjIatGjN88nRywiBnTxrO9Gm0LPY7nS2sRWn1VoGMSPd99KSsLKa0EOrzJ2lF1hW/s1600/10681607_10204078044224074_1511855055_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBM-crzAzpYk7c9WUQ36wgtgi74jqpWAk8t2hGqAlZnJilEvolCKUaOha5BT9keDk8P2G3GN4RKsE_OjIatGjN88nRywiBnTxrO9Gm0LPY7nS2sRWn1VoGMSPd99KSsLKa0EOrzJ2lF1hW/s1600/10681607_10204078044224074_1511855055_n.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzqDr724rvu51MW0KTmQWnjBbxzWV-2wytdC9GjFtBdnm8jBDLutCi11PoMmx1bdlEtkjY-JYfLbVS1K6a-8cSR7OgYCRcHjxZbwxxkM9G-P3WFGgoRFGm44T3AkOgvncR4Fevt-5MuRhf/s1600/10695375_10204078045224099_620625330_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzqDr724rvu51MW0KTmQWnjBbxzWV-2wytdC9GjFtBdnm8jBDLutCi11PoMmx1bdlEtkjY-JYfLbVS1K6a-8cSR7OgYCRcHjxZbwxxkM9G-P3WFGgoRFGm44T3AkOgvncR4Fevt-5MuRhf/s1600/10695375_10204078045224099_620625330_n.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzR9h5Gb72ktszGipZdhwst5RImJCoyrbMWVWBEdp2t1AgThvRJIhv3jH25M6lmv3H_ESp4xFFIwihTJLivTYUATKnBi5SsWNbSJyNM-Smffp8ORozGkRk8xrWY2JU1tyVvyDRhQeHFxXy/s1600/10705025_10204078044504081_72429100_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzR9h5Gb72ktszGipZdhwst5RImJCoyrbMWVWBEdp2t1AgThvRJIhv3jH25M6lmv3H_ESp4xFFIwihTJLivTYUATKnBi5SsWNbSJyNM-Smffp8ORozGkRk8xrWY2JU1tyVvyDRhQeHFxXy/s1600/10705025_10204078044504081_72429100_n.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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Think of all the ways this idea could be interpreted. Oh my goodness. If you are a neutral booth, you could use neutral papers. If you build furniture from pallets, you could use this technique there. The possibilities are endless.<br />
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One more thing... I saw these doors on the Max and Connie page. Brooke did them for a client. I love them! In fact, I swooned when I saw them. That's exactly what I want for a doorway at my house! <br />
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<br />Denise Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13389394184925325152noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7613749589938401721.post-84593860031393163042014-09-13T04:40:00.001-07:002014-09-13T04:40:49.613-07:00Chalkboard Message Ideas for Halloween and FallThis is a great time of the year to have chalkboards for sale in your booth. They sell better when you artsy them up a little. There are lots of ideas out there for any artistic ability.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisYJygv11UoQdy_nurW9dljZgCse8xLwdlfIsUTSfMvjwoz2jX3E2Btwj2vOTC1Coyqgc2UJLqSnvhqaEqXyGn0f87DSOl5wT9GykB7QCydTynXjsrxtEJFAjf-AmVNmJEkTlr0A2OSCXo/s1600/Chalkboard-Title.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="VintageShowOff.blogspot.com" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisYJygv11UoQdy_nurW9dljZgCse8xLwdlfIsUTSfMvjwoz2jX3E2Btwj2vOTC1Coyqgc2UJLqSnvhqaEqXyGn0f87DSOl5wT9GykB7QCydTynXjsrxtEJFAjf-AmVNmJEkTlr0A2OSCXo/s1600/Chalkboard-Title.jpg" height="528" title="Halloween Chalkboard Message Ideas for Your Booth" width="640" /></a></div>
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Bonus: Words (as in large signs) in a booth are great attention grabbers. People can't help themselves. They have to read it. That means, they'll look that much longer in your booth. Maybe they'll even walk in for a closer look instead of just giving your booth the once over from the aisle.<br />
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Don't have a chalkboard? Find a large frame. Have smooth MDF board cut to fit. Paint it with black chalkboard paint.<br />
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Here's some chalkboard message inspiration to get you thinking -<br />
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This first one is my all time favorite. I have seen entire booth walls painted in black chalkboard paint. It really makes a great backdrop. The ones I've seen weren't fully decorated like this one. They usually had the name of the booth at the top and maybe a few seasonal designs. The rest was left blank to allow the furniture in front of it to show well. Something like this one would look great on a wall behind the register area, don't you think????</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy0A1LnwFAMEZG3Du1wHDMSNuJARc_c9SQgdYVn2J4Md6-nw2ftax6HRKbEtPnRIAOZsFNzDuASxgyoCv_3M3CkvaUaqjQ_bMfIK9fjRXziUBeakqzEL6Yd33Q7mBfngxc9JOPlCnQYoQy/s1600/8743fc620f3c789fe8e45446f9256496.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy0A1LnwFAMEZG3Du1wHDMSNuJARc_c9SQgdYVn2J4Md6-nw2ftax6HRKbEtPnRIAOZsFNzDuASxgyoCv_3M3CkvaUaqjQ_bMfIK9fjRXziUBeakqzEL6Yd33Q7mBfngxc9JOPlCnQYoQy/s1600/8743fc620f3c789fe8e45446f9256496.jpg" height="640" width="520" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.inspiredbycharm.com/2012/09/hocus-pocus-broom-co.html">Source</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgroA8760-ZDy2j3LIfg6gN_E78eVOLnmfFZ-aMzP_1JQibp_1cZ-gbpHpqxdlIfBZZfxDkzdoT2HxwjKcjGOFTXWAqWuwismBcHKKjbGoajg7ZckVu-2ZI6jPQeVHW_m7kfJiS1EA2epJz/s1600/0577e9e92ab83e9015ab431727771c97.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgroA8760-ZDy2j3LIfg6gN_E78eVOLnmfFZ-aMzP_1JQibp_1cZ-gbpHpqxdlIfBZZfxDkzdoT2HxwjKcjGOFTXWAqWuwismBcHKKjbGoajg7ZckVu-2ZI6jPQeVHW_m7kfJiS1EA2epJz/s1600/0577e9e92ab83e9015ab431727771c97.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://johnsonfamily23.blogspot.com/2012/10/its-just-bunch-of-hocus-pocus-we.html">Source</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUTbbk3aBVBCnGa_MV4d6qLk3-k4Sq0l5CUGt5sLdeWJqZvss-ELPkhExpn13jMO1_PlcYLXOMrsgHbdogDxavbHhZAfKnhGTReX3NF8U3Q9zk5PAoFU2-StG0Am-IFUDUmBfYU1pNsA8Y/s1600/5db27696a2d759cc1aa8e8408c2de956.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUTbbk3aBVBCnGa_MV4d6qLk3-k4Sq0l5CUGt5sLdeWJqZvss-ELPkhExpn13jMO1_PlcYLXOMrsgHbdogDxavbHhZAfKnhGTReX3NF8U3Q9zk5PAoFU2-StG0Am-IFUDUmBfYU1pNsA8Y/s1600/5db27696a2d759cc1aa8e8408c2de956.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Found on Pinterest, no link to source :-(</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiGWVolZIkbM-EGtzdZIemYDRHe97t7OM0kuP6XgJ51fA-WBOyZ1pVgj0phnLKhEseZLZNvQUZjd40Pk2eg03ECSBlM0WDc-v2qBSmcSVAeg7kupqaoYoThC9cPAo0pFT-YUoO0fPskz8-/s1600/bfe2d7f34ce5159e6cb8952193365847.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiGWVolZIkbM-EGtzdZIemYDRHe97t7OM0kuP6XgJ51fA-WBOyZ1pVgj0phnLKhEseZLZNvQUZjd40Pk2eg03ECSBlM0WDc-v2qBSmcSVAeg7kupqaoYoThC9cPAo0pFT-YUoO0fPskz8-/s1600/bfe2d7f34ce5159e6cb8952193365847.jpg" height="640" width="425" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://sweetsomethingdesign.blogspot.com/2012/10/halloween-tablescape-and-hi.html">Source</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQcMGoXp0GkWnK76aeDeD_MvqnH70VWjmGlfHtsVUD2Gz8cACo4AUM8GGs_Z4bKXONIt76c3erW1FX2Y90kJ29eLv3T5Eg7JU0ted2qaD7RK62lA05ds6FJPn3FDzeHHgbGLpoBGht9X5n/s1600/5efb83756b79ab64bd49173a2d218d40.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQcMGoXp0GkWnK76aeDeD_MvqnH70VWjmGlfHtsVUD2Gz8cACo4AUM8GGs_Z4bKXONIt76c3erW1FX2Y90kJ29eLv3T5Eg7JU0ted2qaD7RK62lA05ds6FJPn3FDzeHHgbGLpoBGht9X5n/s1600/5efb83756b79ab64bd49173a2d218d40.jpg" height="400" width="315" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/159617573/trick-or-treat-sign-halloween-chalkboard?ref=shop_home_active">Source</a><br />
This is actually a print for sale of Etsy.</td></tr>
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Here's a super simple one -<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEwUQ5aF36N9-1azZjPjyvgkLVpRMd1mCk4OAl78yCOqHyqv9aQ_IzT8jwVCZiLXoBm6QFkpFwODTojQOrPSu4J5dkJHkvSAvaQImHx0HWWWmKcIdHogxmuGCuG11lMzg3VNajPPGZb_y0/s1600/942709ec7f9085616201bcfdba26ac50.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEwUQ5aF36N9-1azZjPjyvgkLVpRMd1mCk4OAl78yCOqHyqv9aQ_IzT8jwVCZiLXoBm6QFkpFwODTojQOrPSu4J5dkJHkvSAvaQImHx0HWWWmKcIdHogxmuGCuG11lMzg3VNajPPGZb_y0/s1600/942709ec7f9085616201bcfdba26ac50.jpg" height="337" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.thehappytulip.com/2011/10/31-days-of-fall-fun-day-13-my-halloween.html">Source</a></td></tr>
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Here's a FREE printable. You can download it in two sizes. Take it to your favorite print shop and have them print it for you. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjKi5ZzwHNyXP_2m1dLWX9F5CA52eFMI4ogB4eCSPmFr21o9nNMSNwKjGXOczLFXo6V_1ydo5Sud-w-AzG0_qJsqJ4HhnL60QkeIeTA4xa9TfdxjWAo1jp3OehRoJGI8mz1XadLqToHUWt/s1600/fall_chalkboard_preview.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjKi5ZzwHNyXP_2m1dLWX9F5CA52eFMI4ogB4eCSPmFr21o9nNMSNwKjGXOczLFXo6V_1ydo5Sud-w-AzG0_qJsqJ4HhnL60QkeIeTA4xa9TfdxjWAo1jp3OehRoJGI8mz1XadLqToHUWt/s1600/fall_chalkboard_preview.jpg" height="640" width="520" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.ishouldbemoppingthefloor.com/2013/09/fall-is-here-chalkboard-free-printable.html">Source</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEqlVUDju1rYrlV90htihGKJffyl7No2NdJX7Bp1imPIoMQxNnzsId33h6mUYX_R9VIPuzeIsVDp4hpwS7IQKHf9VoEhx-yUx-cnqbtV2GngH9ABZql9mDdJ5_T6v33aUFWDJOV4k00p6s/s1600/22e535796ff053decc10b993721fa2f7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEqlVUDju1rYrlV90htihGKJffyl7No2NdJX7Bp1imPIoMQxNnzsId33h6mUYX_R9VIPuzeIsVDp4hpwS7IQKHf9VoEhx-yUx-cnqbtV2GngH9ABZql9mDdJ5_T6v33aUFWDJOV4k00p6s/s1600/22e535796ff053decc10b993721fa2f7.jpg" height="640" width="411" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://ouramericantale.typepad.com/our_american_tale/2012/10/halloween.html">Source</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaDhqdPas0bkT8wzX-caJpVlzsRVHeg3ehY0laAoQC6IqsxLZtpEIdmzn0XMIOJnCukwh2kbiZrOc-r0nl_8B6ynBmuIbQBOlBdOv2rDinX1HgBs-VjjWsGL19dhUb5_H6IktVzEE6CDRk/s1600/8c2a7857b7071a06004287b693fc284b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaDhqdPas0bkT8wzX-caJpVlzsRVHeg3ehY0laAoQC6IqsxLZtpEIdmzn0XMIOJnCukwh2kbiZrOc-r0nl_8B6ynBmuIbQBOlBdOv2rDinX1HgBs-VjjWsGL19dhUb5_H6IktVzEE6CDRk/s1600/8c2a7857b7071a06004287b693fc284b.jpg" height="400" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This one was on Etsy, but is no longer available.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpHyFUqDH-W2Z6ECKoPMc8lV2i2E8yhbl7taei1xmONfapT3j-yQjbl2M41S69N_-JY05Pzpq-y3DA_P4lD8RqdUayNfRVciF5V3Tsooj4AtddC8CfOzwS8ch2UHWB3rOKbMowk-DCb945/s1600/cda85c4410ed555f827f112936bfdd7e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpHyFUqDH-W2Z6ECKoPMc8lV2i2E8yhbl7taei1xmONfapT3j-yQjbl2M41S69N_-JY05Pzpq-y3DA_P4lD8RqdUayNfRVciF5V3Tsooj4AtddC8CfOzwS8ch2UHWB3rOKbMowk-DCb945/s1600/cda85c4410ed555f827f112936bfdd7e.jpg" height="640" width="476" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.hometalk.com/2279310/autumn-chalk-art">Source</a></td></tr>
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Need help drawing a spiderweb? It's so simple!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyT96UIelSZboctTEdSbSiDgS7pFeqrvqcFgdDrTDZY8-SKzT9A3HsBlV081QlWoYjNuvaH4PG7y1Qm-gmTG168mm7hdVxeJ9VvuvcrPjqu1mBT5ae1WY1Chzv3YcRfKypsc6-o021qmVN/s1600/8e4aaf8f45f330042789dae85e29baad.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyT96UIelSZboctTEdSbSiDgS7pFeqrvqcFgdDrTDZY8-SKzT9A3HsBlV081QlWoYjNuvaH4PG7y1Qm-gmTG168mm7hdVxeJ9VvuvcrPjqu1mBT5ae1WY1Chzv3YcRfKypsc6-o021qmVN/s1600/8e4aaf8f45f330042789dae85e29baad.jpg" height="640" width="268" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://unskinnyboppy.com/2012/10/easy-tutorial-how-to-draw-a-spiders-web/">Source</a></td></tr>
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And finally, here's a little tombstone inspiration from Pottery Barn -<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh74X8HMAhFwRvSRF2VWwGGoKdtCUicptYnh51JNdRmG0DIW2FBRmdj8eJmaa81dkKJg-WlZpzjiO216AMatQfkDv6TLo5HFmyuvSkFLc4xXFEOzXOFWdJHPPU5dB04xfqdNF561EOxUhGt/s1600/c5109499f06ffd82567d040dadc6ebc1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh74X8HMAhFwRvSRF2VWwGGoKdtCUicptYnh51JNdRmG0DIW2FBRmdj8eJmaa81dkKJg-WlZpzjiO216AMatQfkDv6TLo5HFmyuvSkFLc4xXFEOzXOFWdJHPPU5dB04xfqdNF561EOxUhGt/s1600/c5109499f06ffd82567d040dadc6ebc1.jpg" height="572" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.potterybarn.com/products/halloween-outdoor-chalkboard-tombstones/">Source</a></td></tr>
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<br />Denise Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13389394184925325152noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7613749589938401721.post-1228573387371122014-08-26T14:18:00.003-07:002014-08-26T17:27:54.452-07:00Pricing Items in Your Booth - The TIPPING POINTThere are too many TALENTED and CREATIVE vendors with poor sales because they struggle with pricing.<br />
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<b>The basic rule of thumb is deceptively simple - price items mid-range for your AREA and don't get near the "tipping points". </b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfttJGidqxen73q1L4TxQaObwXo3SExHW9zIuePNTpBsmEGBH47MgGKu7CSbnwUE7lFRxN_dQQYN5vp0ouyWYtzlhl6D39nwACR4d0-LP1ljs7K8OozDyGApMhoe16mT0plYzfM4sAk-5C/s1600/Tipping-Point.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfttJGidqxen73q1L4TxQaObwXo3SExHW9zIuePNTpBsmEGBH47MgGKu7CSbnwUE7lFRxN_dQQYN5vp0ouyWYtzlhl6D39nwACR4d0-LP1ljs7K8OozDyGApMhoe16mT0plYzfM4sAk-5C/s1600/Tipping-Point.png" height="456" title="When pricing items in your booth, stay within reason for your area." width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>What do I mean by <i>tipping point</i>?</b> That's just a phrase I use when talking about the price of things. If a customer is looking for a coffee table and they see one they really like, they will buy it if it's WITHIN REASON. They will buy it if it's $100. They will buy it if it's $200. Anywhere within reason is okay if they like it. That same customer probably won't even consider it for $300 and they'll be wary of it if it's too low. <i>Stay safely between the tipping points - not too high, not too low.</i><br />
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<b>Also, notice I said things should be priced within reason for your AREA, not your mall.</b> If you price a dresser at $700 and there are 10 other stores nearby that have dressers that look almost the same for $300, then a customer would have to be crazy or slap-happy-rich to want to buy yours. Why is yours so much higher? Is it really that much more special? Are you sure? Have you looked around at all the other stores nearby? If you haven't, what are you thinking? It's important! If you seriously want to improve your sales, it's something you need to do. You need to know what your customers could get if they looked around. <br />
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Over the years I have watched many vendors set a price that's over the tipping point (usually because they paid too much for it themselves) and sit on it for ages. In fact, they may hardly sell a thing month after month. Yet they are still paying rent. If they had priced their items within reason, they'd likely have sales. It's better to make a little less and have some sales than to sell a $1000 piece every 6 months. Think about the rent paid for a six month period. If you aren't selling anything, then you need to do something different! <br />
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<b>The tipping point can go in the other direction, too. You don't want to price too low.</b> That's suspicious. Many customers are wary of items priced too low. They think it might be a piece of junk. There might be something wrong with it that's not stated on the tag. Malls sales are usually final. Why take a chance? A customer might not even bother to examine an item after they see a ridiculous price. Even if the item is great, the perception of poor quality is there because of the lowball price. Vintage sales are generally final, so customers feel the need to be a little cautious.<br />
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Selling too low is also not profitable. You can work hard, price low, sell lots, get a big fat check, and still not make a profit. Read my <a href="http://vintageshowoff.blogspot.com/2013/12/the-scariest-post-ill-ever-write.html">SCARY post</a> if you dare.<br />
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<b>Price items correctly from the start.</b> Don't bring it in priced high with the idea of marking it down later if it doesn't sell. One day, I need to write a whole post on that one, but for now, just trust me.<br />
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<b>Keep in mind that you can't expect everything to sell quickly</b>, even if it's beautiful and priced perfectly. The right person has to come along - a person who needs what you are selling. You may have to wait a few months for a big ticket item to sell. Expect that and make up for it by having lots of choices in a number of price ranges in your booth. Small accent tables can bring in quite a profit if priced correctly. In my area, I'd say the accent tables need to be in the $75 to $100 range. Who knows what it is in your area.<br />
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Some months, you may not sell anything big, but your sales of smalls ($50 and less) will make you very happy. <br />
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Also remember, some months are slow everywhere. August is usually a little slow because many customers with kids are dealing with buying school supplies and sports gear. Decorating is the last thing on their minds.<br />
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One more thing about tipping points - <b>An ENTIRE STORE can be tipped too high or too low.</b><br />
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Customers don't shop much in stores where <i>most </i>things are over their tipping point unless they feel that the goods are sooo special that the prices are warranted AND the prices are close enough to their tipping point that they would be able to rationalize going a little out of their comfort zone. That makes it very important to choose your mall carefully. Being in a store where most things are overpriced (or underpriced) can hurt your sales, even if your things are reasonably priced.<br />
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Note that what's right for one area could be completely different for another. Georgia prices are very different from California prices. Big city prices are different from little podunk town prices. Know your area.<br />
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<br />Denise Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13389394184925325152noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7613749589938401721.post-46896401223310420102014-07-10T04:00:00.000-07:002014-07-10T04:00:05.671-07:00Free Booth Decor - Dried Hydrangea IdeasIf you (or a good friend) has hydrangea bushes, you need to start thinking about clipping flowers to dry. You'll be able to use them here and there in your booth to make the things you hope to sell look even prettier. Dry some extra to use at home!<br />
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<a href="http://www.funkyjunkinteriors.net/2011/10/31-days-blog-to-biz-day-17-forever.html">This is my favorite method for drying them</a> - it's from the blog <i>Funky Junk Interiors</i>.</div>
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Once you have lots of dried hydrangea flowers, here are a few ideas for how to use them -<br />
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<br />Denise Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13389394184925325152noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7613749589938401721.post-51784152620556012212014-07-05T05:00:00.000-07:002014-07-05T05:00:03.134-07:00Jewlery DisplaysHere are some interesting jewelry displays I came across recently -<br />
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Finally, this is not a display idea, but rather a trick for transporting jewelry displays. I actually found this in an article with moving tips. If you do shows, setting up needs to be fast and easy. You could get a display ready and wrap it with Press-n-Seal to keep everything in place til you are ready to set up.<br />
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<br />Denise Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13389394184925325152noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7613749589938401721.post-43593164478569941442014-06-30T15:59:00.000-07:002014-06-30T15:59:41.306-07:00Crazy is in the Air!Crazy is in the air! I thought maybe it was just in the air around the antique world in Georgia, but apparently, it's in the air all over. The vintage business is hot and trendy. Everybody and their brother thinks they need to open a shop, even if there are already 10 shops in the area, which is inconsiderate and just plain stupid. It's also asking for trouble. With every new shop that opens, the competition gets a little harder, which is stressful. The over-saturated market is bad enough, but what's worse is the witchy behavior. I've come across some people lately who are racking up some major bad karma points with their ugly behavior.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My apologies to Veronica Lake, who played a very <br />
nice witch in her 1942 movie, "I Married a Witch"</td></tr>
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I've met loads of "fun-crazy" types since I've been in the business. But 2014 seems to be the year of lunatic, watch-your-back, "OMG,-I-cannot-believe-they-did-that" kind of crazy. <br />
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I've seen a few crazy situations locally and have had quite a few <i>Vintage Show Off</i> fans message me privately for advice with truly insane situations. It's so sad. We should all be having fun, right?<br />
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We all need to choose carefully who we associate with. We should all try to do what we love and surround ourselves with people who are supportive. <br />
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If you are in a bad situation, but desperately need the money, be very active in looking for a better situation, even if it's not selling vintage wares. If you desperately need the money, you probably should be doing something a little more reliable. There's not a lot of money in running a booth. <i>You know that, right? </i><br />
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If having a booth is more about having a hobby you love and/or earning a little extra pocket money, then get the heck away from lunatics and go to a mall that's happy and "normal", even if it has less traffic. Once you get to the happy mall, do what you can to make it more successful. Pitch in a little! Help them market. Help promote them on Facebook, even if it's just by leaving comments and sharing posts. Help decorate now and then. Be a friend to your fellow vendors. If your help is valuable and goes beyond pitching in a little, maybe the nice owner will appreciate it enough to compensate you with reduced rent.<br />
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Mean behavior shouldn't be tolerated. I don't think we should just stand by and keep quiet. Isn't that <i>enabling </i>the bad behavior? If you stay where things are bad and/or keep quiet when you see wrong being done, then you are pretty much saying you are OK with it.<br />
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If it's the store owner or manager who is bad news, keep in mind that as they go down, your booth will go down, too. They may go down swiftly (like in a lawsuit) or they may just see a steady decline, which they will conveniently blame on everything but themselves.<br />
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Thankfully, all the owners and most of the vendors I work with directly are good, decent people who try to do the right thing. If they weren't, I promise, I'd be gone so fast, you'd think my super-hero power was speed.<br />
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One more thing just to clarify. We can't demand perfection. Pretty much every person on earth has their faults. (<i>If you think a person has no faults, you probably just don't know them well enough</i>.) Even a person who tries really hard to be good will have a lapse in judgement from time to time. Don't expect your mall owner or fellow vendors to always do what you think is the perfect thing. The behavior I'm referring to in this post is mean-spirited. Stay far away from that!Denise Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13389394184925325152noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7613749589938401721.post-25897319820329443092014-06-26T05:26:00.000-07:002014-06-26T05:26:24.710-07:00Dishonest CustomersHopefully, the majority of your customers will be lovely. Unfortunately, if you have a booth long enough, you will probably come in contact with some who are morally challenged. There's no sense in getting angry or letting them spoil your day. I always trust that karma would take care of them. You reap what you sow. Etc Etc.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>My apologies to Carol, the woman in the photo. <br />This was taken a long time ago and I'm sure she has turned her life around.<br />This should be a warning to us all. If you are arrested and your mug shot ends up on the internet, <br />many years later it could show up in the most unlikely places.</i></td></tr>
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Just as there are things you can do to make your home a less attractive target for a burglar, there are things you can do to make your booth a less attractive target for dishonest customers. Honestly, my suggestions aren't great ones. They are just deterrents. And I would be willing to bet that there are more helpful ideas on this topic. Comments and suggestions are welcome!!!! <br />
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Price Changing<br />
It's super easy for someone to come along with their own pen and mark through your price and write in a lower one. One <i>solution </i>- never slash your prices on the original tag. Have a special tag that you ALWAYS use for sales rather than just crossing through a price on the original tag and writing in a new one. Let everyone who works the register know that. Solution is actually not a good word choice. Someone can still mark through it and unless you are working the register, it can still be rung up with the new "thieving customer" price. Lets just say this idea is a decent deterrent. <br />
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Tag Destroyers<br />
When I had a booth, I would get calls at least once a month for a price on an item with a missing tag. I knew I was great at putting on tags in such a way that they weren't going to fall off. They were being pulled off deliberately. At first, I would just go to my spreadsheet and look up the price. But then, I got irritated. I'd look on the spreadsheet and then quote a new price that was a little HIGHER than what was on the tag. If they really wanted the item, they might go back to the booth and miraculously FIND the missing tag. Or, they'd pass, leaving the item to be purchased by someone more honest (after I'd made a new tag). Making new tags is irritating. Side note - whenever I rearranged my booth, I'd almost always find a tag on the floor behind and or under things. The hole where the string had been was generally torn. <br />
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Another possible help is to use the tags that are hard to pull off. Tags with reinforced holes require a bit more effort. It can still be done, but again, it's a slight deterrent. <br />
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Tag Switchers<br />
I am always amazed at how many vendors don't write enough info on their tags. If you simply write your dealer number and a price without writing what the item is, you are begging for a switch. A customer could grab a $9.99 tag and take it to the register with a $24.99 item. <br />
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Be sure the description on the tag is good. One vendor friend had two windows for sale. One window was plain and small. Another was large and special. A customer grabbed the tag from the cheaper plain one and used it to buy the much more expensive one. Both tags said simply "Window".<br />
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There's no perfect way to prevent dishonest customers from pulling a fast one.Unfortunately, there are dishonest people out there and this is the kind of thing that you need to figure in when pricing. Big stores know to expect theft and breakage and they price everything a tiny bit higher to offset those losses. Unfortunately, a smart and determined scumbag will probably succeed somewhere in the store. If this is a big problem at your mall, then the mall needs to step up security. Having very visible security cameras is a good step in the right direction. Having enough people working the floors is another.Denise Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13389394184925325152noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7613749589938401721.post-16741685553084614182014-06-25T16:37:00.000-07:002014-06-26T03:55:17.245-07:00Is it Better to Limit Colors in a Booth?There has been quite a bit of discussion this week on booth colors. I started it off by warning that the trend for the all neutral look may have peaked and it's definitely over-saturated. In a sea of neutrals, anyone who uses color will stand out. On the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/vintageshowoff">VSO Facebook page</a>, I showed several booths using turquoise. Some had red, white and turquoise and the one below was mainly turquoise and white.<br />
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I found this photo on Pinterest and it belongs to Mary at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MaryCarolHogland">The White Barn</a>. Since I had been showing 3-color booths in the previous photos, I suggested that orange or red could be added to this booth to attract even more customers. Mary wrote in and said she hates red and prefers the calm feeling of just turquoise and white.<br />
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Then, in another comment, Rhonda asked, "Can you have too many colors, even if you try to group and creatively arrange the items in a small booth? Or are the booths with more uniform colors, such as the one above more successful?"<br />
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First, for Rhonda, I really don't think it matters. I have seen very successful neutral booths while other neutral booths bomb. I can say the same for multi-color booths. I wrote <a href="http://vintageshowoff.blogspot.com/2014/01/quality-and-quantity-before-beauty.html">this post</a> about how it's more important that your booth have great things that people want rather than a beautifully staged booth with few things people want to buy. I love love love a beautiful booth, but in the end, it's gotta have stuff people want to buy.<br />
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As for Mary's booth, it's beautiful just the way it is and as you can see by glancing in the booth, there are plenty of things people will want. I see several items I'd want to go check out if I lived close by.<br />
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Restricting to two colors can be tricky. The addition of a third color would likely increase sales. I feel pretty sure that most every customer who sees this booth would love it, but many of those customers won't have turquoise in their decor. They could still buy the neutrals in Mary's booth, so they'll still go in the booth.<br />
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Mary prefers calm colors. So, no red. No orange. But, how about adding more green in various shades??? There's already bits of green. Green is a popular decor color. It looks great with turquoise - very ocean-y. The turquoise would provide the punch of color and turquoise seems to make everyone happy, even if they don't have it in their decor. The booth would have the soothing look that Mary wants. BUT... it might increase her sales. If a customer didn't have turquoise in their home, they might have green, which means they might see more that they would actually purchase.<br />
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Does Mary really need to do this? Absolutely not! If her sales are good and she's happy with her bottom line, then she doesn't need to change a thing. But if her sales ever start to drop, she might try adding another color to the mix and see what happens. <br />
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A point that I wanted to make this week in talking about color was <b>the wish for booths to not be so similar to others in the mall</b>. Several of my favorite booths are all neutrals. Even though this trend has peaked, it's far from over and I hope these booths keep on going for a lot longer. But, I see far more neutral booths that are just sad copies of the trend. I'd love to see those dealers try something else. Something more unique. The trick for vendors is to put their own stamp on their booth. I'm actually delighted that Mary wants to stand firm on her look. She has a clear idea of what her booth is about and I'd be willing to bet it's quite popular. If it weren't, I doubt she's be so set on it, right?<br />
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But if another booth in her mall decided to go with a turquoise and white booth, that would be a shame. So, what's the difference when too many booths in a mall are all neutral? <br />
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For that matter, do booths really have to have a limited color palette? Heck no!!! You can get great stuff in as many colors as you like and create vignettes. When you pull a vignette together, you can think about color. You can have many different vignettes with different color palettes in your booth at one time. There are many fabulous, very successful booths that do that. They have every color in the crayon box, but they arrange it artfully.<br />
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<span style="color: #45818e; font-size: x-large;"><i>The Bottom Line - </i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #45818e; font-size: x-large;"><i>There's no one road to success when it comes to booths. There are many different roads. You might as well look for the road that makes you happiest and gives you sales you are comfortable with.</i></span><br />
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<span style="color: red;">Update: </span><b>The following comment was left on Facebook by<span style="color: red;"> </span>Mary at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MaryCarolHogland">The White Barn</a>. It's her booth that's featured in the photo in this post. The comment had so many good points that I thought it should be included in this post.</b></div>
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<i>Since I tend to sell mostly vintage, I work with what I find. This will dictate the color scheme and sometimes my "look" isn't necessarily what I WANT because my finds aren't my favorites, and when they ARE my favorites and I get the "look" I want, customers carry them off immediately...sigh. The woes of good pieces-they don't last long. But I do confine my purchases to colors I don't mind in my booth, and if I HAVE to buy something red, it will go in the corner at the back, or in a buddy's booth. My best booth looks usually last about one DAY. It is bittersweet-yay, the product sells, but bummer, I have to go rework the whole thing again. I do like to mix in some new market items to keep my booth fresh. One hundred percent vintage can be hard to display if you don't have some florals or textiles to break up the hard surfaces. Vignettes attract customers-I think they LIKE to see good ideas for decorating, but they must be changed often so your booth stays fresh and they keep coming back to see what you have done. Selling merchandise helps this a lot, but if sales are slow, go turn your booth upside down and change everything. Usually sales are much better when you move things around. Sometimes an item just doesn't SHOW UP until you move it. This happens at garage sales all the time. Move an item and it sells immediately. Thank you for the attention. I enjoy this topic-retail sales are fascinating. We humans are funny creatures!</i></div>
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Denise Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13389394184925325152noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7613749589938401721.post-56040503016617389022014-06-22T14:00:00.000-07:002014-06-22T14:15:52.212-07:00I See The Same Booth Looks EverywhereThis is something that has been on my mind for awhile. I have a feeling that things are starting to shift. I have no idea what they are shifting to, but I think I know what they are shifting away from.<br />
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No matter what nice mall you walk into, you'll see several booths that look the same as several booths you recently saw at another nice mall. The arrangement and merchandise is a bit different in each booth but the look is the same. <i>I would love to insert a great photo of a pretty booth in neutrals, but since this article is about the market being over-saturated with them, I won't do that. </i><br />
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We saw the all white look for a long, long time. All white started to transition over to white mixed with lots of neutrals and burlap and iron. That really caught on and for the past few years, those booths have ruled. I think that look may have peaked. It's not over by any means. It will likely still do well for a bit more time, but I'm not sure how long. <br />
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Even style names are changing. Fewer and fewer vendors are using the words "Shabby Chic" to describe their furniture on their tags. I still see it some, but I wince because it's seems too passe. The upscale neutral booth vendors never use those words anymore. <i>My, my. I feel like such a snob</i>. :-D <br />
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Retro was hot for awhile and vintage kitchenware sold like hotcakes. Not so much now. Those fabulous retro tables with enamel tops used to sell like hotcakes. Now they sell a bit slower and for less money. <br />
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Industrial was hot for several years. Now it sells a bit slower.<br />
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Chalk painted furniture is everywhere, but now, unpainted furniture sales are starting to rise - or at least a mix of painted and natural. Tables that are painted on bottom and wood on top do just a little better than the solid color tables. <br />
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I have no idea what's the next big thing. I'm not seeing any clear ideas from magazines, but one of these days, some new design star is going to show us something amazing and people will start jumping off the neutrals bandwagon and head onto another path.<br />
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So, my advice for vendors - think about diversifying. If everything you have is chalk painted, add in some wood. If everything you have is white and/or neutral, add in a little bit of color. Watch magazines. Watch Pinterest. Watch what sells. Get ready for styles to change. You don't have to go overboard. Just a little bit of a change can make a difference.<br />
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Luckily, in most markets, the local consumers are usually just a tad behind the styles. Once a new trend gets started, it takes them a little while to decide they like it enough to start redecorating. Many will hang onto the old looks for a while.<br />
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I am keeping my eye out for new ideas and new styles. I'm keeping my eye out, too, for booth looks that don't feel like every other booth I see. I'll post those photos over on the VSO Facebook page whenever I come across them. <br />
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The photos I posted this morning are a good start. Here's one of them. When I first spotted this, I got excited. After seeing photo after photo of neutrals, this one was like a breath of fresh air.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Source - <a href="http://www.mydesertcottage.com/2014/06/summer-lovin-at-sweet-salvage.html">My Desert Cottge</a></td></tr>
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I'm not suggesting that this red-white-and-turquoise look is the next new thing, but at least it doesn't look like every other booth. <br />
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If you have one of those fabulous neutral booths, I'm not at all suggesting you toss everything and start over. But you <i>could </i>add a little bit of color here and there. You could keep plenty of neutral things to catch the eye of neutral-seeking shoppers. But now, you'd also catch the eye of people tiring of neutrals. Plus, your booth would be more memorable. Your booth wouldn't be confused with several others in the store. I'm really craving something different. <i>Am I alone?</i><br />
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I admit that this post is heavy with personal opinions. But, boy do I feel it - change is in the air. I have seen changes in sales to back up my feelings and my personal opinions, so I don't think I'm alone. <br />
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Also, let me clarify - there will ALWAYS be a place for neutrals. No matter what style becomes popular, people are more apt to buy large pieces that work with many color schemes and styles. Neutrals are safe. Few of us can afford to buy something large in a crazy color we'll tire of in a couple of years. The smaller things around those large neutral pieces are the things we are a little more adventurous with and I, for one, am ready for an adventure. :-DDenise Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13389394184925325152noreply@blogger.com