Missing the point.

An article in the month's Maine Digest brings up a perceived conflict in the concurrent running of shows and auctions. Click here for the story

While I understand the historical friction between the two concepts, there are many examples where they peacefully coexist. (New York, Manchester). The upset dealers in the articles view the auctions as competition, and thus a bad idea. You're missing the point. The competition you should be fearing is the people outside the industry who are trying to make what you are selling irrelevant. Pottery Barn, Crate & Barrel and Williams Sonoma Home are busy stealing customers every day. Stop complaining about people who are trying to make a living selling the same types of things you are, they are your allies whether or not you realize it. The competition isn't the booth next door or the auction house, but the shopping mall and the internet, where we have no cohesive industry presence.

From our friends Andrew & Hollie at the Young Collector's Blog and Maine Antiques Digest:

Top Ten Reasons to Buy Antiques
1. Save money. Really live better.
Antiques are often reasonably priced and can be found in any price range.
2. Buying local does not just apply to tomatoes and kohlrabi.
When you buy an antique, you are supporting a small, locally owned business.
3. George Washington did not sit in your La-Z-Boy.
Antiques are tangible pieces of history.
4. There is no such thing as a McBlanket Chest.
Antiques are unique and offer nearly endless variety.
5. 100% post-consumer content.
Antiques are the most environmentally responsible choice for home decorating.
6. There are enough ten-year-old futons on Craig’s List.
Antiques retain significant resale value.
7. No allen wrench required.
Antiques offer solid, quality construction, and durability.
8. Industrial cable spools and pilfered milk crates do not
constitute a living room suite.
Antiques are stylish, and can accommodate anyone’s decorating tastes.
9. Forty cents per hour was a fair wage in 1940, not 2010.
Antiques are socially responsible—none are made in sweatshops.
10. If it’s not Scottish, it’s crap!
Antiques can be a source of ancestral or regional pride.
Courtesy of The Young Collectors at Maine Antique Digest. www.youngantiquecollectors.com

Gearing up for New Hampshire and Fall Shows

It's the middle of the year here at Jenkins Management. Gearing up for the annual pilgrimage to New Hampshire and Maine in early August. Preparing for the second half of our show schedule which kicks off with our August Springfield show featuring a one day specialty show. The Farmington show follows Labor Day weekend and September Extravaganza. The first half of the year offered encouragement. Dealer and customer counts were up with a few weather based exceptions. Looking forward to some exciting news in the next few weeks regarding upcoming shows (Nashville anyone).
I sure hate keeping a secret, but good things come to those who wait.

Springfield Antique Fest next weekend!

Getting ready for next weekend's show. Our July Antique Fest is a three day format. Finally getting a break from the heat. Hope to see everyone there.