Collecting Vintage – An Interview with SophisticatedFlorida 7

We enjoying talking to people who collect vintage treasures. In this interview, we find out more about Marilyn, the owner of the vintage shop SophisticatedFlorida on Etsy.

Why and when did you start collecting?

My first collections were organic – things I encountered in my daily life as a child. Nature is something we have immediate access to – you can pick up a stone or twig just about anywhere – and unbeknownst to me, I was planting my collecting roots.

Who or what was your influence for collecting?

It was my grandfather who instilled this love of “finding” in me. As his only grandchild, he was my constant partner in whatever life brought our way. Seashells on the shores of Vermont’s Lake Champlain, a robin’s egg. He was also a whittler, an extremely accomplished craftsman making baskets out of fruit pits. I believe my love of folk art began at his feet watching him work.

The first thing I remember consciously buying – going in to an antiques shop by myself and buying – was a pin. Gold tone filigree with a butterscotch stone in the center. I can’t explain it – why then, why that shop, why that pin – but it might have been my first thought that I’d like to own something that I went out and acquired on my own.

What is one of your favorite pieces and why?

Many of my favorite pieces are things that I’ve sold. I’m not sure if I regret doing so or just miss them but… A fabulous southern pine pie safe. A stunning abstract mid century chrome cow skull and horns. A painted country desk. Those are ones that stay on the list of fabulous pieces. When we moved to Florida several years ago we had a big downsizing. Lots of gut wrenching decisions. The best of the best made the cut. I collect a lot, in many diverse areas. Northwest Pacific baskets and Eskimo carvings. Zuni fetishes. Outsider and mid century art. And then there are the antiques. Mochaware. Folk art. It’s a long list. And maybe at the top is an old chalkware polka dot rabbit and make do mochaware pitcher with a wooden bottom.

What tips can you give us about collecting?

Don’t buy anything unless you love it. Sometimes we think “This is a cat. I collect cats. Therefore I should buy this cat, even though I really don’t like it that much.” Don’t let your collection pigeonhole you. There will always be another cat around the bend.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with style. You can add something modern in a collection of rustic pieces. Trust yourself.

When you see something that makes your heart soar, buy it. It’s the “find another one” philosophy. Get familiar with what’s everyday and what’s hard to find so that you’ll feel confident in “pouncing” when you see that rare piece.

What would be your holy grail piece and why?

This is a really tough question. And I’m not completely sure I can answer it. But this art collection is very dear to my heart. I like collecting things that have a little bit of humor.

Where do you look for new items to add to your shop/collection?

I have a regular circuit of places I go in my area – thrifts, consignment shops, antique and décor shops, estate sales. I enjoy attending a monthly antiques fair in West Palm Beach. I trek up to the Orlando area three times a year for Renninger’s extravaganzas. I try to make one girls-weekend-buying-trip north each year. And we have started an annual road trip to Vermont each summer to visit our kids (and buy New England antiques, of course).

How has collecting changed or affected your life?

I have met some of the most wonderful people through collecting. Lasting friendships that wouldn’t have happened otherwise. And I think it has given me an eye for what’s “authentic” – both things and people. It is a constant and a comfort. And it keeps me humble.

Where can we find you?

Instagram: www.instagram.com/sophisticatedvintageflorida for my latest finds and flash sales
Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/VintageFlorida/
My occasionally updated blog: www.sophisticatedvintage.com
And just perhaps I’ll be joining a fantastic brick and mortar soon. Fingers crossed!!