Copyright © 2021 – 2024 Village Vintage. All Rights Reserved.
Web Design by Chaos.
Autumn is the perfect time to refresh your living space with cosy, nostalgic touches to reflect the change in seasons. One of the best ways to capture the essence of autumn in your decor is by incorporating Essex antiques. These timeless pieces bring history, charm, and a sense of warmth that modern decor often lacks. With the right blend of vintage treasures and seasonal accents, your home can feel like warm to compliment the change in weather. Here’s how to use vintage antiques to decorate your home this October.
When decorating for Autumn, focus on antiques that complement the season’s rich, warm palette. Think of items with earth tones, such as rustic woods, burnished metals, and patina finishes. Look for Essex antiques that evoke a sense of nostalgia and warmth.
Accessories are one of the easiest ways to update your home for autumn. When it comes to antiques, look for small, vintage items that add seasonal charm:
A well-curated vignette is a fantastic way to highlight your antique finds while celebrating the autumn season. Choose a surface, such as a console table, entryway bench, or mantel, and create a display of your favourite vintage pieces.
Start with a larger, statement antique as the focal point, like a weathered mirror or a vintage clock. Then, layer smaller vintage items like antique books, old framed photographs, or rustic lanterns. Introduce seasonal elements, such as gourds, pumpkins, or autumn leaves, for seasonal appeal.
For added texture and depth, drape an antique shawl or woven blanket over the edge of the table. Complete the look by adding a vintage vase filled with dried flowers or branches in Autumn colours.
While vintage Essex antiques bring character and charm, it’s important to strike a balance between old and new. Mixing modern pieces with antiques can create a dynamic, layered look without feeling dated or overly traditional.
For instance, you might pair a sleek, modern sofa with an antique coffee table, or hang contemporary art above a vintage sideboard. Adding modern accents, such as new throw pillows in trendy patterns or a contemporary rug, will keep your space feeling fresh while allowing your antiques to shine.
Don’t forget your outdoor spaces when decorating for Autumn. Antique tools, garden decor, or even vintage bottles can all be repurposed to enhance your porch or garden. A vintage wheelbarrow can be filled with pumpkins; add a weathered bench or antique rocking chair to your covered porch for a more rustic vibe.
Here at Village Vintage, we are passionate about delivering the best results for our valued customers. If you’re looking for Essex antiques this Autumn, we’d love to help you find the perfect pieces to compliment your home! From furniture to lighting and glassware to ceramics, our collections are always changing with the most beautiful collections for our customers. Take a look at the pages on the links above to find your perfect pairing.
If you have any questions, or are looking for something specific, why not get in touch with us by filling out our contact form and one of our friendly team will get back to you. Don't forget to join our community on Facebook.
Looking for an Essex antique dealer local to you? When shopping for antique and vintage furniture, the choice of where to buy can greatly influence the quality, experience, and overall satisfaction of your purchase. Opting to buy from a family-run local business offers a range of unique benefits that cannot be matched by large retailers.
From personalised customer service, to genuine industry knowledge, higher quality pieces, ethical sourcing, and a sense of community support, the benefits are countless. Here, we highlight why purchasing antique and vintage furniture from a local, family business will always be the best decision for high value and sentimental items.
One of the most significant advantages of purchasing from a family-run business is the personalised customer service that comes with it. Unlike large chain stores where sales associates may have limited knowledge about the products they sell, family-owned businesses, like Village Vintage, pride themselves on their deep understanding of their inventory and with established longevity comes expertise.
At Village Vintage, we have a genuine passion for antiques and vintage items. This translates into detailed knowledge about different furniture styles, historical periods, materials, and craftsmanship. We are always on hand to answer any questions you may have about an item and are able to help you understand the value of each piece. This level of expertise ensures that you make informed decisions, rather than simply being sold an item by someone with little interest in its history or significance.
Additionally, although we operate online, we offer in person viewings at our storage unit. You are welcome to browse other items too; please take your time when looking at the pieces we have on offer. We want to offer you the best service possible, so that you can feel assured and confident when purchasing from our Essex antique dealer.
When you buy vintage or antique items from a family-run local business, you are likely investing in higher-quality pieces. Large stores often focus on reproductions or mass-produced items, which may not offer the same level of craftsmanship as true vintage or antique furniture. In contrast, family-owned businesses tend to have a carefully curated selection of genuine, one-of-a-kind items that reflect their commitment to quality and authenticity. This is certainly the case at Village Vintage.
Antique and vintage furniture is often made from durable, solid materials that have stood the test of time. Whether it's hand-carved wood, or solid brass fittings, these pieces are usually more robust and resilient than their modern counterparts. Private businesses typically take great pride in the quality of their stock. This ensures that the furniture they sell has been properly restored or is in excellent condition. This ensures that when you make a purchase, you are investing in something that will last for decades to come.
Additionally, the uniqueness of the pieces available at smaller, family-run shops sets them apart from mass-market retailers. Each item has its own story and history, which will allow your home to feel more personal and distinctive.
In a world increasingly focused on sustainability, buying from a family run Essex antique dealer is an ethical choice. Mass-produced furniture, especially when made from cheap materials, often comes with a significant environmental cost due to the use of unsustainable resources, long supply chains, and wasteful manufacturing practices. By contrast, antique and vintage furniture is inherently sustainable. You are giving a second life to a piece of history rather than contributing to the demand for new, resource-intensive products.
Family-run businesses are often deeply invested in sourcing their inventory ethically. They are certainly more likely to ensure that their stock is obtained responsibly. Moreover, since these businesses operate on a smaller scale, they are less likely to engage in exploitative labour practices that can be associated with large multinational corporations. When you purchase from a smaller family-owned antique dealer, you can feel confident that you are supporting ethical practices and reducing your carbon footprint by choosing a product that has already been produced, rather than one that requires new resources to be manufactured.
Shopping at a family-run Essex antique dealer allows you to build long-term relationships based on trust and mutual respect. Unlike large stores where you may never see the same salesperson twice, family-owned businesses foster ongoing relationships with their customers. This trust can lead to personalised recommendations and the opportunity to learn about upcoming pieces before they become common knowledge.
Moreover, family-run businesses often rely on word-of-mouth and repeat customers. This means they have a vested interest in ensuring that every customer is satisfied. By supporting a family-run business, you are helping to enable these businesses continue to thrive and that the wealth of knowledge they have built over the years is preserved for future generations.
At Village Vintage, our reputation is built on years of expertise and positive customer interactions. We will always go above and beyond to make sure you are happy with your purchase.
Here at Village Vintage, we love what we do. We're are passionate about delivering the best results for our valued customers. If you’re looking for unique vintage and antique pieces for the home, we’d love to help! Simply get in touch with us by filling out our contact form and one of our friendly team will get back to you. Don't forget to join our community on Facebook.
Ceramic antiques are a fascinating and diverse area of vintage and antique collecting, encompassing a wide range of objects from various cultures and periods. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting out, understanding the history, identifying key characteristics, and knowing how to care for your ceramic pieces are essential skills. At Village Vintage, we’ve written this guide to help you navigate the world of ceramics!
The history of ceramics dates back thousands of years, with some of the earliest known pieces originating in China around 18,000 BCE. These early ceramics were primarily utilitarian objects, such as bowls and storage jars. Over time, the craft evolved, and ceramics began to be used for decorative purposes as well.
Chinese ceramics hold a special place in the history of pottery. The development of porcelain during the Tang Dynasty (618-907 CE) was a significant milestone. Porcelain, known for its strength and translucence, was exported around the world and quickly became very popular. The Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) further elevated Chinese ceramics, with the famous blue and white porcelain becoming highly sought after.
European ceramics saw significant advancements during the Renaissance. Italian maiolica, a tin-glazed pottery, became popular in the 15th and 16th centuries. In the 18th century, European porcelain factories such as Meissen in Germany and Sèvres in France began producing high-quality porcelain that rivalled Chinese imports. The invention of bone china in England in the late 18th century then added another dimension to European ceramics.
In America, ceramic production started to flourish in the 19th century. Factories like Rookwood, Roseville, and Weller became well-known for their art pottery, combining artistic design with functional forms. The Arts and Crafts Movement of the late 19th and early 20th centuries further spurred interest in handcrafted ceramics.
Understanding the different types of ceramic antiques is crucial for identification. The main categories include:
Many ceramic pieces have marks or signatures that can help identify their origin, age, and maker. These marks are often found on the bottom of the piece and can include:
Recognizing styles and periods can also aid in identification. For example:
The condition of a piece significantly affects its value. The Village Vintage team suggest looking for:
Proper care is essential to preserve the beauty and value of ceramic antiques:
Should you need advice when it comes to antique restoration, our team are more than happy to provide our expertise.
At Village Vintage, we have a beautiful selection of ceramic antiques available. From vases, to jugs, dishes and mugs, our wonderful collection has something for every taste and can be viewed here.
If you’d like to view an item before you buy, we offer viewings at our secure storage facility, Monday-Friday by appointment only. Located on the Essex and Suffolk border, our team will meet you and offer their expertise, so that you’re able to purchase with confidence.
Additionally, our customers are welcome to collect items in person, or we can organise both UK and international delivery.
We hope our ceramic antiques has given you a good insight into what to look out for and what to consider before and after making your purchase. At Village Vintage, we’re passionate about delivering the best results for our valued customers, so if you’re thinking of investing in some vintage or antique items for the home, we’d love to help!
Simply get in touch with us by filling out our contact form and one of our friendly team will get back to you.
Is there a difference between antique and vintage pieces? Here at Village Vintage, it’s a question we’re often asked. Although commonly believed to mean the same, there are differences between the terminology, though they’re used interchangeably. In this week’s blog post, we take a closer look and clarify the significance between the two to help you make better informed decisions when purchasing or collecting your items.
The primary difference between antique and vintage lies in their age. Generally, an item is considered antique if it is at least 100 years old. This definition is widely accepted in the collectibles market and by most antique dealers. Antiques are often seen as items that have significant historical value, reflecting the craftsmanship, materials, and design aesthetics of the period in which they were made.
On the other hand, vintage items are typically those that are at least 20 years old, but not yet 100 years old. For instance, a vase from the 1980s can be described as vintage, whilst a vase from the 1890s would be considered antique.
The term vintage is often associated with a particular era or decade; ‘Mid C’ refers to mid-century (encompassing 1950/60/70's). This is the most common term referred to in association with the ‘best’ vintage period.
Antiques often carry a greater historical and cultural significance due to their age. They can provide insight into the social customs and artistic trends of their time. For example, an antique piece of furniture from the Victorian era can reveal much about the materials used and the stylistic preferences of that period.
Vintage items, while not as old, can still offer valuable cultural insights. They often reflect the popular styles and trends of a more recent past, capturing the essence of the time they represent. As an example, vintage fashion can showcase the evolving tastes and societal norms of the mid-20th century, such as the shift from the conservative styles of the 1940s to the bold and experimental fashions of the 1970s.
The condition and quality of an item can also distinguish the difference between antique and vintage pieces. Antiques, due to their age, are often rarer and may require more care to maintain their condition. They are typically valued for their originality and specifics like the patina that has developed over time, which can add to their historical authenticity and charm.
Vintage items, being newer, are often more readily available and may not require as much maintenance. However, their condition can still significantly impact their value. Pristine vintage items, especially those that are representative of their era, are highly sought after by collectors.
The market value of antiques and vintage items can vary widely based on factors such as rarity, condition, and demand. Rare and well-preserved antiques often reach higher prices due to their age and historical significance.
Vintage items can also be valuable, particularly if they are iconic of their time or have become fashionable again; which we have certainly seen more recently. For example, vintage collections from well-known designers can be highly desirable and fetch high prices. Naturally, the value of vintage items can also be influenced by current trends and the nostalgia factor. This can drive demand for items from particular decades.
In light of this, you may have heard of the term ‘retro’ within the vintage community. It’s commonly used in place of the term ‘vintage’, however there is a slightly different meaning to them. Retro is actually a shortening of the French word, retrograde. This is where newer pieces imitate or nod to the styles of the recent past. So, if an item is listed as retro, it most likely won’t be an authentic vintage piece.
Now we’ve clarified the difference between antique and vintage pieces, you can better appreciate the unique qualities and value of each type of item! Here at Village Vintage, we love what we do. We are passionate about delivering the best results for our valued customers. If you’re looking for unique vintage pieces and antique furniture, we’d love to help!
Simply get in touch with us by filling out our contact form and one of our friendly team will get back to you.
Cleaning antique furniture is a steadfast way to keep your décor looking spic and span, what’s more, you’ll actually be assisting in its preservation! As experts in vintage and antique furniture, our Essex antique dealers are well-versed when it comes to the upkeep of your products. This week, we take a closer look at the benefits of using the correct cleaning techniques and some preservation tips for different materials.
Amongst the hustle and bustle of life, often, the last thing we want to be doing is making time for the cleaning. However, when it comes to your antique items, taking just a few moments to clean and care for them can significantly benefit their appearance and longevity. Our advice would be not to wait for them to get covered in dust, but to be proactive in your approach and schedule ten minutes out of your week to give them the care they deserve. Remember, antiques are an investment, so it will always fare you well to keep them in the best condition possible.
Some of the key advantages of efficient cleaning include:
Cleaning antique furniture regularly helps in preserving the material of the furniture. Whether it's wood or fabric, dust and dirt can accumulate and lead to deterioration over time. Did you know that dust particles can actually act like sandpaper, causing scratches on wooden surfaces over time? By keeping your antique furniture clean, you help to prolong its lifespan by removing potentially harmful debris, treating the surface with the appropriate products and preventing wear and tear.
Proper cleaning can prevent damage from pests, such as termites or woodworm, which are attracted to dirty and neglected furniture. Alongside cleaning, don’t forget to take a quick look for signs of damage caused by critters every couple of months.
Cleaning restores the original lustre and beauty of antique furniture. Removing grime, stains, and build-up can bring out the wood’s natural grain, patina, and craftsmanship details that can easily be hidden. Clean furniture also contributes to a healthier and fresher living environment. Not only does this look tidier, but it eliminates dust and allergens that could affect the indoor air quality.
Antique furniture often holds its significant monetary and sentimental value. Well-maintained pieces are more likely to retain or even increase their value over time. Collectors and buyers are more interested in pieces that have been properly cared for, so if you’re thinking of selling-on one day, a quick clean on a frequent basis will benefit you further down the line.
When it comes to cleaning antique furniture, some items will need specialist attention. Here are our tips for some of the most common vintage materials.
Cleaning antique wood requires careful handling, so you can begin by gently dusting the surface with a soft cloth or using the vacuum with a soft brush attachment to remove loose dirt and dust. A polished finish can also be achieved by using the cloth to buff the wooden surface – if polish solution is being used, be sure to test it on a small inconspicuous area of the wood to ensure it doesn’t damage the finish. Leave to air dry after cleaning. Our advice would be to avoid using water and soap when cleaning antique wood pieces. For details and crevices, use cotton swabs to remove dust and dirt. Do not use harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaners, or excessive moisture, as these can damage the wood’s finish and structure.
Always handle antique wood with care and avoid placing it in direct sunlight or in areas with high humidity.
If your antique silverware is tarnished, there are a few ways you can make them sparkle again!
With glassware, such as wine glasses, gently hand wash in warm soapy water and dry with kitchen towel. Don’t put them in the dishwasher, as this exposes them to extreme temperatures which could result in breakage.
To clean mirrors and brighten cloudiness, simply apply a little distilled white vinegar or alcohol on a cotton pad or microfibre cloth and gently wipe over. Don’t spray anything directly on the mirror as this can create tarnish marks. Leave to airdry.
Cleaning antique furniture can also include fabric items. Vintage upholstered surfaces should be vacuumed gently using the brush attachment to collect any dust and dirt. For stain removal, gently use a mild cleaning product and tepid water on a soft fabric, foam, or spongy material. Apply pressure in circular motions to lift dirt without damaging fabric fibres.
A mild detergent mixed with warm water is often the best choice for delicate antique upholstery. However, it’s best to test the solution on an inconspicuous area first to ensure it won’t damage the fabric. Make sure you wipe again thoroughly using a clean cloth dipped in water so that no residue remains behind. Let the fabric air dry and avoid heated environments.
We hope these tips on cleaning antique furniture come in handy! Here at Village Vintage, we love what we do and are passionate about delivering the best results for our valued customers. If you’re looking for unique vintage pieces and antique furniture, we’d love to help! Simply get in touch with us by filling out our contact form and one of our friendly team will get back to you.
Are you looking for a reputable Essex antique dealer? Then you’ve come to the right place! Welcome to Village Vintage , a family run, father and son business who are passionate about our vintage collections and of course, our wonderful customers. In this week’s blog post, we thought we’d introduce ourselves, discuss exactly what it is we do, why we’re passionate about the antiques and vintage industry and how we could assist in finding your next unique piece for your home.
Here at Village Vintage, we specialise in sourcing, unusual vintage/antique furnishings and decorative items for around the home. We cater to all styles and budgets, and guarantee that our products have that unique difference that you are looking for! If you’re looking to make an impact in your home, Village Vintage is there to help you achieve this. If it’s not in stock, we’ll do our best to source something for you.
As Essex antique dealers with years of experience under our belt, not only are we extremely skilled and respected in our field, but we have built trusting relationships with credible suppliers across Europe. This ensures that our customers get the premium quality, one of a kind home furnishings they’re looking for.
When it comes to customer service, we are dedicated to delivering the best and always strive to go above and beyond in all that we do. We have a very in-depth knowledge of the marketplace and trends and try to focus on design led pieces with well-known names as well as the more unusual, quality items that we may come across.
We sell individual pieces to the public and also supply high end hotels and other hospitality venues who are always searching for quality, one off pieces. Our team are very proud that our field of work is so environmentally friendly, and with our in-house expert restoration, we make sure that pieces carry on being loved and admired for years to come.
At Village Vintage, we predominantly trade online, however, we know just how important it is for you to get a feel for the item you’re interested in. There’s nothing quite like seeing an antique in all its grandeur for yourself! Located on the Essex and Suffolk border, we offer viewings with our team at our secure storage facility, Monday- Friday by appointment only. This way, you’re able to physically see the item, talk to our professional team and ask any questions you may have.
Furthermore, our customers are welcome to collect items in person, or we can organise both UK and international delivery. We want your purchasing experience to be as seamless as possible for you, so we give you the option for ultimate convenience.
In our industry, trust and credibility is everything. Our Essex antique dealer are leading the way with our upfront and sincere approach. For every quality piece, we guarantee assurance that the items we distribute are genuine, providing accurate provenance and verification whenever possible. We want you to shop with confidence; for many, vintage and antique items are often investments, so purchasing from a trusted reputable source is absolutely key.
Village Vintage adhere to ethical standards, which includes fair pricing, honest disclosure, and responsible sourcing. We also have our clear, no quibble 14 day return policy and guarantees, providing additional peace of mind for buyers. We understand that a good reputation fosters customer loyalty and long-term business relationships - we want you to leave us feeling informed and above all, satisfied with your purchase!
We have hundreds of beautiful pieces available on our website, with new items consistently added to our collection. Should you have any queries, our team would be happy to help! Some of our most popular categories include:
Did you know that our Essex antique dealer specialises in antique restoration? Restoring antique furniture is a wonderful way to prolong the life of furniture, as well as refreshing the item. It’s one thing having an eye for vintage items, but restoring antiques takes our expertise to a whole new level. This intricate skill truly sets our business apart. At Village Vintage, we restore antique and vintage pieces that we purchase, only if needed, with great care and precision.
Village Vintage Essex antique dealer are extremely passionate about the sustainable offerings of our field and pride ourselves on our environmentally friendly commitment to only supply pre-loved, quality items.
Today, it’s increasingly difficult to find quality items that can withstand the test of time with minimal upkeep. With pressure on designers, manufacturers and suppliers to minimise costs, quality is often sacrificed, which certainly rings true in the modern furnishings industry. Cheaper materials are now being used to craft products, which means the customer will need replacements much sooner.
Choosing vintage and antique pieces over newer options not only supports sustainability efforts but also ensures high-quality furnishings that last longer than the alternative.
Here at Village Vintage, we love what we do and are passionate about delivering the best results for our valued customers. If you’re looking for unique vintage and antique pieces for the home, we’d love to help! Simply get in touch with us by filling out our contact form and one of our friendly team will get back to you. Don't forget to join our community on Facebook.