INTERVEIW WITH THE NELSON LEADER 2011

How did you get into the collectables business?
My Dad was an antique dealer but my interest didn't come until later in life. I was married and Dad taught my husband Shane to do up furniture and that got us out garage sale-ing, going to auctions and reading to acquire more knowledge that turned into a passion. It's all about the thrill of the chase. It's a continual treasure hunt. 

What is it about old stuff that gives you a thrill?
The history of the piece, where it's come from, who had it, the kind of life it had, and also the quality and how well it is made. 

What is the most exciting thing you've found lately?
A French 1930s mannequin bust that is a bit worse for wear but very stylish and would have spent her life on display in a top couture store. 

How does the recession affect a business like yours?
Money is tight in general but I must say our clientele are very good to us and we have a lot of repeat customer and a comment that is often said is: "we just want to see you do well and appreciate having this shop in Nelson". 

What about Trade Me?
Well, Trade Me has had an enormous effect on the secondhand trade in general from the buying to the selling of stuff. I don't sell our top line stuff on Trade Me. I feel you don't see many shops that have a great deal of good quality in them because they tend to put things on the net as well. People appreciate seeing a vast array of quality items in great condition. We're really blessed in Nelson for the antique shops that have great stuff.

Word has it you're off the USA - what's the story?
Yes! It has been a year in the planning. We went last year to suss it out and decided it would be viable for us to ship a container back. We're going to a huge fair where they open a new field of antiques every day for seven days it is huge. Everything you can imagine is there. I was hyper-ventilating with the vast array of fantastic goods for sale last year. It takes a lot for me to get me excited these days because we see so much stuff on a daily basis but this is an antique shopper's paradise. We will also do flea markets, antique centres, auctions, etc. First stop: New York City here we come. We will be covering quite a bit of ground on the east coast then fly back to LA for more of the same and maybe a bit of a holiday. 

​Stuff from the 1960s and 1970s is pretty hot right now but do you think people will ever get excited about stuff from the 1980s and 1990s?
Yes, retro era furniture is popular from formica tables and chairs to Crown Lynn swans to the more modernistic streamlined look of the 60s and 70s.
As far as what will be collectable from the 80s and 90s ... the clothing fashion has done a resurgence but as far as house decor goes, it may take a bit longer, especially as, being laminated, it's not as well made and not solid wood. But who knows? Everything just does a cycle with a new twist. 

What are some of the most interesting things you've found in the pockets or drawers of items you've bought?
I remember in the early days op shopping was a real passion and I bought a pair of 70s jeans among other things and when I had exhausted my funds, went home and went through my buys of the day and found in the pocket of the jeans $60. 

How long is your hair?
My own hair would be waist length. There are braid extensions into my hair. They add length and are what keeps it tidy. If you braid your own hair it fluffs up. 

What's your favourite pudding?
Anything caramel or fruity, I have a very sweet tooth!