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ASK QUESTIONS
Be prepared with what you want to learn about the antiques you’re buying. Of the pieces they source from France, designers Ann Huff and Meg Harrington of Huff Harrington will find out what kind of wood is used, what region did the piece come from and how the specific style is defined. If a dealer tells you a piece is 100 years old, ask them how they know that, advises Huff. It’s always better to ask and confirm so you can pass along that knowledge to your customer.
BUILD RELATIONSHIPS
Building a working rapport with reputable dealers is a reliable way to know you’re buying a genuine product. “Buy from
a group of dealers at venues such as AmericasMart. They don’t just let anybody into the show. These exhibitors have been vetted so they’re selling a good product at a good price,” says Kenny Ball of Kenny Ball Antiques.
CHANGE IT UP
Mix and match. “It’s never a good idea
to have a one-note interior,” says
Susie Quillin of MiNTY, “It’s the mix of
eras, materials, and colors that creates a sophisticated look. If you sell new furniture, have your lounge chairs flank an age-worn table; use antique bookends to corral a collection of new books,” she suggests as ideas for retailers and designers.
Start small and don’t go crazy when creating retail displays, advises Janice Palmer of Palmer Design Group, “You’re not creating a museum; you’re replicating a lived-in space.” Finding a common theme like color between a set of disparate pieces from different periods helps things not get too frenetic, says Meg Harrington of Huff Harrington. Vendors and designers recommend buying functional products
for display purposes—working chests of drawers and mirrors are great examples.
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