Guest Curation: AuctionNinja x Bailey Archer

For many people, the allure of a vintage-inspired kitchen is undeniable. From the intricate details of a piece of silverware to the charming imperfections of an old wooden chair, these items have a way of bringing warmth and character to any home. Bailey Archer, the creator of @cozycrazing, is someone who knows this all too well.

As a busy wife and mother of three boys, Bailey has made a life out of her love for secondhand and vintage items. Her eye for unique pieces has helped her create a home that is cozy, warm, and full of personality. 

In this edition of Collected Perspectives, Bailey shares her top AuctionNinja picks and offers some helpful tips for those who are new to online auctions and estate sales.

Bailey’s AuctionNinja Picks

1. Lenox Spice Garden Tea Canister and 4 Spice Jars

2. Antique/Vintage Copper Kettle

3. Ironstone Trio - Handled Crock & Lovely Pitchers

4. Demijohn Bottle with Hammered Brass Stool

5. Antique Splint Gathering Basket

6. Antique Stoneware Crocks and Bottles

7. Antique Wire Basket Milk Bottle Holder

8. Antique Country Wood Pantry Box And Sifter

Q&A with Bailey

What got you interested in secondhand, vintage and antique items?  

Growing up, my parents frequented garage and estate sales. They were always on the hunt for their next treasure! Truth be told I thought they were crazy! My brothers and I would give them such a hard time buying “junk” and just couldn’t understand the excitement at such a young age. 

As I got older I watched as they transformed our house into a beautiful home full of incredible finds they had collected over the years. It didn’t look like junk to me anymore. Every piece was so unique and each item held its own story. 

Once I got married and started creating my own home I wanted the same. A place that was cozy, warm, and inviting. A place that didn’t look like everyone else's. I wanted it to tell the story of us! Once I began collecting I was hooked. It truly became my passion and has helped shape the person I am today. I have my parents to thank for such an incredible gift!

What are the one or two things that you always find yourself bidding on/looking for when shopping secondhand?   

This is a hard one! I have so many collections I’m always looking to grow and so many new collections I’m wanting to start! I think I would say stoneware bowls and ironstone pitchers though. 

Not only are they beautiful to display but I use them on a weekly basis. Stoneware bowls come in a variety of colors and patterns and I love how primitive they are. When I use them there’s a nostalgic feeling associated with it that warms my heart. Ironstone pitchers are so beautiful! The more stained and crazed the better in my opinion! I love using them for fresh flowers all over the home.

What's your absolute favorite item ever purchased at an estate sale or online auction?  

Hands down my Holt Howard Santa pitcher and mug set! I had wanted a set forever and finally came across a great one at an estate sale just last year. I had butterflies and my heart skipped a beat as I happily danced out of there with my beloved purchase!

Any tips or advice for online auction or estate sale newbies?  

First and foremost utilize apps and websites. Within those apps and websites you can enter your zip code and search a desired radius to help you find sales in your surrounding area up to two weeks in advance. 

You can also preview the sale through pictures to see if they have items of interest before taking the time to go. A lot of estate sale companies also have weekly email newsletters with their upcoming sales in your area. Sign up! 

Second I would say don’t get discouraged if you lose out on an item or leave empty handed. It’s all a part of the thrill! I promise if you stick to going frequently you will come across the same item or something even more fabulous again! 

Thirdly, go on the second or third day of a sale. Prices will be slashed and you can get some amazing deals!

Interested in becoming a guest curator? Apply here. And don't forget to share your latest scores with us on Instagram by tagging your photos with @auctionninja and #ANFinds -- we'd love to feature you!

Written by:

AuctionNinja Staff

April 26, 2023     Updated 04:07 PM

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