Dear Readers,
We've received some great words of encouragement regarding the continuation of Today's Vintage. We hope to keep entertaining and supporting the antique community for years to come.
Read on!
Angela Moore, Editor
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I just wanted you to know I love your Vintage Magazine and I subscribe to it. I also loved Antique & Collectables Newsmagazine and Antique Journal. I was really sorry to see both of them come to an end. I have tried other antique publications. They are just not what I am looking for. My friends and I go to alot of antique shows in the San Francisco Bay area including Sacramento and Santa Rosa area. Your magazine has the best show schedule for these areas. Keep us informed of up-coming shows and I will stay a subscriber.
Thank You,
Bobbie Hagelberg, Benicia, Ca.
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I'm truly glad, and I must say relieved, to learn Today's Vintage is staying in business. The magazine keeps me and many readers aware of what's going on not only in the Bay Area, but around the state - even a bit beyond.
We need Today's Vintage. I'm sure I speak for so many fellow collectors when I say we appreciate all of your hard work.
An overdue and sincere thank you to the staff and advertisers of a publication I can't fathom having at my fingertips.
With all best wishes,
Steven Wayne Yvaska
Antiques Columnist - The Seasoned Collector
San Jose Mercury News
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The Show Will Go On…
The last few weeks have been an absolute whirlwind of activity, but I am happy to navigate the chaos in order to be able to announce the continued publication of Today's Vintage Magazine.
The announcement early in the month that the magazine would be closing came as a bit of a shock to us all, though I cannot blame the previous owner for choosing to focus solely on his core product - especially in this uncertain economic climate. I am actually grateful to him for according me this opportunity to jump in and spearhead this magazine. I have been with Today's Vintage since its inception in 2007, and have come to feel towards it as fondly as I do my own child. I am very pleased to be the new owner/publisher, and I have nothing but high hopes for the continuation of the quality publication that so many have come to know and enjoy.
If you will all indulge me for a moment, I would like to take a minute to offer some thanks to people who are well deserving...
To my previous colleagues, Katy Hoke, Pam Dykstra, Cathy Kolbenschlag, Shari Corsello and Melissa Eder: Thank you all so much for helping put together Today's Vintage, and make it the magazine it is today. I am grateful to all you have done, and will surely miss the assistance
in the months and years to come!
Thank you to Angela Moore and Debbie Rieman, without whom I would not be able to take on this endeavor. Your hard work and dedication to keeping Today's Vintage alive are appreciated more than words can say!
A fond thank you to our advertisers. Many of you started out with us at the beginning, unsure of where things would go, but willing to take the chance with us. The kind words and well-wishes you have all expressed to me in the last week have been overwhelming, and I am so pleased that we will be able to continue to work together towards the common good for the Antique and Collectibles industry.
Last, but by no means least, a special thank you to my predecessor Sandy Hood. Not only was she the publisher and figurehead that launched Today's Vintage, not only was she my boss, but she was my mentor and remains my dearest friend. Ever since she took a chance on me in 1995, I have enjoyed learning under her exceptional tutelage, and can honestly say that she taught me everything I know. Even still she helps to make certain I haven't forgotten anything in this crazy rush to get the April issue published. I will forever be grateful to her for everything she has taught me. Thank you, Sandy. For everything you have done. For all that you are. You are a truly exceptional individual, and I hope I am able to make you proud!
Okay folks...Here we go! Hang on tight, keep your hands and legs inside at all times - and enjoy the ride!
Linda M. O'Connor
Publisher
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Vintage Makeover
It's time for a mini-makeover at Today's Vintage. Over the next few months we'll be shaking things up, adding new sections, renovating existing features and removing old ones.
Look for more ideas for decorating with antiques, a new vintage Art section and an expanded vintage fashion directory. Well be inviting fresh new freelance writers and contributors and, as always, we welcome input from readers, store owners and show producers.
We are always looking for ways to support the antique and collectibles community, and be mutally supported. We've already initiated programs to stretch our advertiser's dollars by offering contract discounts and free classifieds. Times are tough and we need to work together to make it through.
Send in your news about in-store events, charity auctions, art gallery exhibits and vintage fashion shows. We want to hear about it all and share it with our West Coast readers and the world at www.TodaysVintage.com. Email news to Editor@TodaysVintage.com.
Angela Moore,
Editor
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| | It's Easy Being Green
We are looking for your Go-Green ideas - tips on how to use vintage and antiques instead of buying new mass-produced items. Have you refinished antique furniture to decorate a room? Have you used an old item in some entirely new way? Are you wearing more vintage clothing and opting for vintage accessories?
Send your photos and descriptions to Editor@TodaysVintage.com
Please provide credit and contact info.We may publish your ideas in our April issue!
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Calling all Kids!
Do you know a kid who collects? We are looking for kids and teens who collect something - whether it's rocks or rock star's autographs - we want to hear about it!
Submit photos and contact info to editor@todaysvintage.com or call 800-914-6434 ext 233.
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You know the phrase, "the show must go on." In these times, being an antique show promoter is more challenging than ever, especially if a profit is to be made. But promoters making changes, trying new ways, being creative and using "back to basics" principles are making sure dealers and buyers still have an exciting environment in which to discover, enjoy and escape into memories of the past.
Kudos to Michael and Marilyn Grimes, producers of the 49-year old Calendar Antique Shows in Del Mar. Michael and Marilyn continue making changes while marketing stays strong. In November all the quality "from tin to Tiffany" dealers were set up in the O'Brien Exhibition Hall and a new specialty show, Century of Style, was in the Bing Crosby Hall.
In January, Grimes and show manager, Jayne Skeff, moved all dealers to the O'Brien Exhibition Hall. The show was different - all dealers and the appraisal booth were in one building. But that was one bustling building. After reviewing the show with several dealers and buyers, the show was pronounced a success. Dealers appreciate the effort Grimes makes in marketing and advertising the shows to get as much traffic as possible. The appraisal clinic was busy as ever, according to appraiser Kyle Husfloen. Dealers reported seeing new customers and most shoppers were walking out with purchases after carefully considering and evaluating what to buy.
Consensus among dealers and shoppers was that, even though these are difficult times, people still need to treat themselves. January's Calender Show featured the Vintage Revue Expo. There were several vintage fashion dealers offering linens to accessories to vintage apparel - very popular with young people and you could see them in vintage wear shopping the show.
In April, the show will be back to two buildings in Del Mar: The Wild West Expo, featuring 60 specialized dealers in the Bing Crosby Hall; and 200 antiques and collectibles dealers in the O'Brien Exhibition Hall. They just keep working it.
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Darryl Fischer of Antique Attractions has been without a venue for more than a year. After being at Northridge for a long time, then almost at Dodger Stadium, Fischer finally found the location that works. Torrance, Calif. is centrally located for the show's shoppers and is a good venue for his dealer. His first show there was held Dec. 28 and those attending were pleased with the parking, easy access from several freeways and enjoyed the fact that this outdoor show is next to a beautiful park. Dealers, such as Ted Morton, who is set up right inside the front gate, have followed Fischer to the new location and are offering a fun variety of unique treasures.
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One of the most energized shows we attended this year was the China and Glass Collectors' Showcase in Bakersfield. This annual show has been managed by Barbara Fields for 25 years. When you enter the hall, you are welcomed by members of the club. Gift baskets, used for the hourly drawings, line the wall. When going into the show, the thing we noticed right off was the "buzz" in the room. Dealers (some who have been selling for over 30 years) were standing, talking to customers, sharing knowledge, finding out what people were looking for and helping them find the booths that had those items. Items for sale were sparkling, booths were set up with attention to detail and there were many in vignette fashion.
Fields uses a special theme every year to promote the show and encourage dealers to bring different kinds of merchandise to keep the show fresh and exciting, bringing in additional new shoppers. This year the theme is "Collecting is Sew Great". You can be sure there will be many dealers offering specific items to fit the theme.
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What stands out mostly in this very tough time is that promoters, working creatively and marketing well, are still producing a show to benefit dealers and buyers alike. Dealers, who are selling, bring in fresh merchandise for each show, make sure all is clean and in quality condition, stand up and talk to buyers to find out what they are looking for, and set up their displays with different looks at each show. Dealers need to move out what is not selling and bring in merchandise that buyers want.
With money tight, shoppers are taking their time, walking the show and thinking about what they are buying. As they walk a show, they want to see merchandise they haven't seen before. If they glance at a booth and see the same thing they saw last time, they will keep on walking. Some want to be left alone to shop but more want to interact with the dealer and gain knowledge or talk about their search and get help in finding that special item.
No matter what, the show must go on. Nowhere else can you get lost in memories, meet fascinating people, find out about old ways, discover just the right piece for your family room wall, get a new piece of jewelry to make you feel special, buy the dress that is fun and no one else will be wearing, get a little piece of Nebraska to take home in the way of an egg crate or spool chest or to just want to help our world by making sure to buy quality, reused and recycled treasures.
I suggest we all go antiques shopping...to a shop, a mall, a show or auction found in this issue. And let us know about your experiences. Send your input to Sandra.Hood@TodaysVintage.com
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State of the Antique Union
As we begin the New Year in the depths of a recession, we must approach the future with cautious optimism. With a new president and a changing political atmosphere, we can only hope that things will start to improve.
Here at Today's Vintage, we hear the news of the antique and vintage community - of business slowing, stores closing and shows downsizing. But we also hear great things too, about stores doing well, and even expanding into second locations, like A Moment In Time, in Fremont, Calif.
We have to wonder, what is it that makes a difference? Why do some businesses die, while others thrive? Is it marketing strategy, specific inventory, customer service skills, or location, location, location? Could it be blind luck or sheer determination, or a combination of all these things?
We've noticed that those businesses who are most successful:
- Have consistent advertising programs
- Know what their customers want
- Keep inventory and displays fresh
- Stay current on trends and price
- Have an online presence and are
willing to sell and ship out of area
We'd like to hear from you - the dealers, store owners and show producers - on what makes the difference. Tell us what you find keeps you in business in a diminishing market and a down-turned economy. With permission, we'll publish your comments as part of an article in an upcoming issue.
In addition, we'd like to offer a free classified ad to all who want it, to appear in our February issue and online at www.todaysvintage.com. Sell any one item, with price and phone number, in up to 20 words. Email your ad content to: Ads@TodaysVintage.com
Regards, Angela Moore. Editor
www.TodaysVintage.com
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Taking a Poll
In the spirit of democracy, Today's Vintage would like to take a poll. In an effort to get to know our readers and gauge our success, we pose the following questions:
1. Which section of Today's Vintage is your favorite must-read: is it Happenings, Decorating, Style, Auto, Spotlight., Collecting, Profile, Auctions, Events or Classifieds?
2. Is there any subject or section you could do without?
3. What would you like to see more of?
4. What is your main source for antique/collectible/vintage related news: trade magazines (which publications), television (which shows) or internet (what sites)?
You may reply by e-mail, traditional mail or at our blog, at www.todaysvintage.com. Our staff must read and approve all blog comments before they are posted live, so please be patient if they do not appear right away.
The results will be revealed in our December issue.
Don't forget to vote on Nov. 4th!
Regards,
Angela Moore, Editor
Editor@TodaysVintage.com
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Show us your Holiday finest!
We had a lot of fun with our August anniversary edition and the festivities continue as we head into the Holiday season. We want to see (and print) everyone's ideas for decorating with vintage, antique and recycled items. Send in your photos!
Regards,
Angela Moore
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Today's Vintage Celebrates!
We made it! The one-year mark is a milestone for a printed publication, especially in a weak economy. We sincerely thank all of our readers and advertisers for their support and hope we can continue to support YOU for years to come.
Where do we go from here? We continue to evolve. We'll be looking at the possibility of expanding our subject matter and market share. We'll be modifying our website to make it more timely, and more interactive.
We also produce the classified and legal advertising, religious directories and obituaries for nine community newspapers here in San Diego. We hope to be able to offer multi-media opportunities for all our clients.
We've received a lot of great feedback, but we need more. We don't have representatives in every city and state, so we need you to be our eyes and ears. If you visit a great store, tell us about it. If you reuse a vintage item in a unique way, show it to us. If you travel to an interesting place, give us the scoop. If you think something is missing, let us know.
We encourage everyone to keep collecting and re-circulating antique and vintage treasures. Make sure to shop your local antique stores and flea markets and plan a trip to one of the big national market shows.
Let's cinch up our (vintage) belts and carry on with optimism! It's a great big antique world out there, let's enjoy it!
Angela Moore, Editor
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Summertime …and the livin’s easy.
Well, it should be anyway. Gas is sky-high and morale is low. Politics and the economy are on the minds of all.
Summer is here, though, the days are warm and the kids are out of school. With July 4th coming up, it's a time for patriotism, optimism and family fun.
Here at Today's Vintage we were inspired by Sandy's fond memories of family outings, and decided to take the kids and grandkids on an all-American 50s style picnic.
We found a gentleman named Woody, who incidentally had a Ford Woodie, which he graciously lent us for the better part of an afternoon. His car club was having a get-together at Santee Lakes, a recreation area consisting of five man-made lakes, complete with paddle-boats, playgrounds and fishing. It was the perfect setting for a picnic photo shoot.
We gathered Sandy's vintage picnic gear, made fresh lemonade, dressed up the kids and headed out. The only challenge was getting all four children to be in good position, with pleasant expressions, in the same shot!
Afterwards, the kids slid, swung and ran at the playground until the park closed. The only cost involved (other than gas and food) was the $2 per car admission to the Lakes.
I encourage everyone to plan some fun family outings this summer. You don't have to go to expensive theme parks or far away vacation destinations. Get back to the basics by treasure hunting at stores and flea markets, cruising classic car shows and spending a day outdoors at a park or beach.
Have a wonderful 4th of July and a beautiful summer!
Angela Moore, Editor
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To E or not to E
The time has come to face the monster. As a publication supporting antique shows, stores, dealers, and collectors we are often leery of mentioning eBay and other online marketplaces. We know that popularity of internet buying and selling, along with the sliding economy, have negatively affected traditional businesses, even forcing some to close.
There are those, however, who have evolved with the times, creating websites, blogs and online stores. In trying times, the key seems to be an integrated marketing plan, that includes all medias, and lets everyone know who you are, where you are, and what you can offer.
Recent changes at eBay are affecting both buyers and sellers. The company says its aim is to make "eBay easier and safer to shop." Listing costs have decreased, but commissions on sold items have gone up. They are also changing their feedback system, which may leave many sellers out in the cold, unable to leave negative ratings if a buyer backs out or fails to pay.
Today's Vintage would like to get feedback from the community on this E-debate, with the following questionnaire:
If you are a show producer, store owner, or dealer, tell us how the internet has affected you:
_____ the internet has not affected my business at all
_____ eBay and other online forums have had a negative impact on my business
_____ I currently have an online presence, which has helped my business
_____ I plan to start selling online in the future
_____ I do not, and will not buy/sell antiques on-line, only in person
If you are already an online buyer or seller, let us know how the new eBay changes will affect your on-line antique buying/selling:
____ I will continue to use eBay regularly, regardless of the changes
____ I will shop/sell on other sites before turning back to eBay
____ I will stop or reduce my activities with eBay, but probably won't go elsewhere
____ I use other on-line marketplaces, so will not be affected by the eBay changes
Print out or copy/paste and send your survey back by mail, fax or email:
P.O. Box 12589, El Cajon, CA 92022
Fax 619 441-7694
editor@todaysvintage.com
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New Year, New Beginning
The end of the year is often stressful, filled with holiday parties, errands and obligations, on top of our regular workday schedules.
My days have been compounded by extra tight deadlines, a home purchase (our first!) and a bout with the flu. Most of our staff is hanging in there, working with coughs and sniffles, rushing off to finish Christmas shopping or attend family events, and just barely catching a glimpse of that light at the end of the tunnel.
As we hear of poor revenue, store closures, and publication shut-downs in a waning economy, our thoughts turn to the new year, and new beginnings.
We want to wish our advertisers, vendors, and readers a Happy, Healthy and Successful 2008!
Keep us posted - let us know how things are going, and what you think of the magazine.
Best Regards,
Angela Moore, Editor
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With our offices in El Cajon, Calif., the staff at Today's Vintage followed the progression of the Southern California wildfires with nervous trepidation. Our heart's go out to all those who lost loved ones, homes and businesses in the fires.
Next month, we will feature more stories from the wildfires along with information about cataloging and safeguarding your antiques and collectibles. We welcome all contributions including personal stories, resource information, questions and requests for help.
Angela Moore, Editor
editor@todaysvintage.com
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Keep Those Cards and Letters Coming!
Part of our mission at Today's Vintage is to create a sense of community. It may be a large community, as we try to include all of the West Coast states, but a community none-the-less. As we go to press on our third issue, I see we are making progress in this direction.
Cheryl Huff of Long Beach, Calif. took the time to send us a personal postcard that reads "I just wanted to drop you a line to tell you how much I like "T.V." Several articles caught my eye, but especially the 25 Ways to Use Vintage Items. Good work!"
I also got a phone call from a very pleased Eunice Purvis. It seems her antique jukebox will play again. Our Vintage Connection feature in the Sept. issue (page 26) led a gentlemen named Paul to call and offer his services. I then forwarded his phone number to Eunice, who called a couple of weeks later to thank us, reporting that Paul would be repairing the Rock-ola very soon.
Park Estate Co., in La Mesa, Calif. graciously submitted photos of some of their vendors' displays to feature in our decorating and craft section.
We want to hear more feedback, make more connections, and learn all about what's going on in the lives of our readers, whether you be avid collectors, store owners, show producers, craftspeople, home decorator, or vintage fashion wearer. Send us your travel stories, decorating ideas, announcements and business news, either by mail, e-mail, phone or blog. We'd love to hear from you!
Angela Moore, Editor
Today's Vintage
editor@todaysvintage.com
www.todaysvintage.com
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