the turkey platter that wasn't

Life in the antiques biz is never boring. And often it isn't even what you're expecting. An estate sale you've been saving for for weeks turns up only a couple of things. A shop or booth or show where you've always found things, on some days yields nothing. Truth be told, hunting for good items can sometimes be a little challenging, and on those days its hard not to get discouraged.

One of the best lessons I learned a while back is the value of being flexible, of being open to letting go of what you thought you wanted and embracing the things that find you. It's a lesson that pops up regularly, and it often causes me to change my focus just slightly so that instead of coming home with the ordinary I come home with something a little more special.

This week the lesson took the form of the turkey platter that wasn't. It started with a bunch of shaggy brown sunflowers I bought, that were just crying out to be in a photo vignette. So I headed out looking for a vintage turkey platter because, well, that's what you do at this time of year. One estate sale and a couple of shops later, I came upon a mid century platter by Shafford China from the Primitive Collection line. The image of a horse, almost prancing, in an almost cave-drawing motif was unexpected, fresh and modern. And, needless to say, it looks great with those sunflowers.

mid century platter, available here in my etsy shop

 By the way, there's now a page on the blog with links that takes you directly to each of my online shops: Etsy, Chairish and Ruby Lane, each a little different in its offerings but with the same quality vintage finds we're known for.

Hope to see you there soon! Peace out - marilyn

because...october

I'm always happy to welcome autumn and this year perhaps more than any other year. Summer had more than its share of challenges and while it's true that all's well that ends well, I could have lived without such an eventful season. So, hello autumn, and welcome October.

I've had a Hudson Bay Blanket on my "hunt" list for a long time. This was the year for me to find one. Perfect size, vivid colors - just love it!

find it here

And for me, the season isn't complete until I find a dough bowl in an extra large size, and some pumpkins to go with it. Mission accomplished - I even managed to score some birch branches!

click here for deets

We're stocking up ALL the shops - Etsy, Chairish, and our latest - Ruby Lane - with fab fall finds and everything you need for entertaining! See you soon! - marilyn