We are in a consumer industry, where everyone wants what’s new and trending. We toss out clothing and furniture that’s not very old because we’re “bored with it” or our “style has changed.” Sometimes these are totally valid reasons, but sometimes I think we’re just making up excuses to buy whatever’s new and shiny. We feel pressure to follow trends and keep up with the Jones’. We fill our homes with objects that have no history, meaning, sentimental value, nor function and it can all feel kind of sterile or overwhelming.

I grew up with a mom who was all about buying antiques from second hand stores, at consignment shops, or in the most random of places. My mom and grandma would often spend time together hunting for treasures and it always bonded them. I remember they would bring home artwork, amazing pieces of furniture, rugs, etc. Every year, my mom would have her art dealer bring a huge truckload of amazing pieces to her house. Neighbors and family from far-and-wide would all come to get amazing pieces of art for a great deal! Maybe I should host one.

Why I Love Buying Secondhand

I think that growing up around so many of my mom’s treasures instilled a love for them in me as well. I love finding a piece of furniture that’s beautiful, charming and built to last. I love all the history it represents. I imagine the excitement the original owner must have felt when they purchased it or even had it made. I wonder where they displayed it in their home, and how they used it. I think of all the special moments it must have witnessed. If only these things could talk!

Shopping second hand is usually much more affordable than buying new,and you end up with better quality products. Furniture used to be handmade, with so much care and skill. There was an attention to detail that you don’t see today. Now things are made by machines in factories, with the cheapest materials available. Overall, thrifting is good for the planet and good for your budget. ONE AMAZING PIECE CAN CHANGE AN ENTIRE ROOM.

I could talk for hours about all the cool things I’ve found in secondhand stores. Once you get the bug, you know what I mean. I think it’s bizarre that there is a stigma around it. There isn’t much that soap and water can’t fix.

My Favorite Secondhand Stores

So where do I like to shop? Honestly, I feel like Utah doesn't have a ton of great spots. People tend to hang onto their heirlooms here. There are a few great spots though, here are a few of my favorite spots:

Oliver and Princess Natasha

The Simple Nest

Haight Ashbury

Capital City Antique Mall

Home Again

Cobwebs Antiques and Collectables

Thrift stores like Deseret Industries, Savers, Goodwill

Pawn shops

My real dream is to go antiquing along the East Coast or over in Europe. I cannot wait for MAY!!! I’ll be going to Europe with my mom and sisters. WE are going to Amsterdam, Belgium and France. I plan on keeping my eyes peeled for those perfect pieces. One thing I really want to incorporate into our new home is windows and doors that are older and can be built into the home to give it that rustic feel. I’m going for “charming and cozy English cottage.” My heritage is 98% English and it’s no wonder I feel drawn to that vibe so much.

I hope you enjoy visiting these shops with me when I share them in my stories. Should I do more thrifting in stories? What do you think? Also, tell me where you like to go thrifting in your state? I want to do more antiquing when I travel. I really wanna go thrifting in the south and the northeast, so send me your recommendations!!! Maybe one day we can go together!?

xoxo, Abi