Okay, the jig is up, I think most of you have figured out by now that I have a soft spot for collecting barware from the MCM era, better known as mid-century modern.
Side note: I’ll admit, it sometimes takes me a minute to catch on to all these acronyms and shorthand terms floating around. It’s not often that I feel out of the loop, but when I do, a quick trip to Google usually sorts me out. And hey, if that makes me “old school’ because I prefer writing things out in full, so be it. I’ll own that.
Back to Mid-Century Modern……
I spend more time than I’d care to admit scouring the internet, hunting for new and exciting finds in the world of drinkware, glassware, and barware. Beautiful, well-crafted pieces that are worth adding to a home bar-essentials for anyone who appreciates cocktail culture. Of course, I love sharing these gems with you all, that is, if I haven’t already snapped them up for my own collection first.
But it’s not just about the aesthetics for me it’s the history that draws me in. Turns out, a huge amount of beautifully printed glassware was produced in West Virginia, sold across various shops and markets, and now lives on through collectors. Whether it’s eBay, Etsy, Chairish, Attic Treasures, or the now-closed Hours Shop, there’s no shortage of places to track down these vintage finds. And let’s not forget the endless auction houses, chat rooms, and collector groups out there.
So, where can you get your hands on some of these treasures? I’ve got some favourite spots to share, starting with my Canadian counterparts;
Attic Treasures, the local Vancouver hotspot I find myself at quite a bit, great prices, knowledgeable owner.
A Simpler Time, an Etsy store out of Toronto, just as passionate a collector and seller.
Chairish, Don’t let the pricing scare you off, as there are many hidden gems, why not make your self a favourites folder?
Peetsy Tootsy, an Etsy site that is clearly about the love from this collector and reseller.
Southern Vintage Wares, and down south Etsy site that knows how to source their items.
The Hour Online Shop, now closed but selling out their remaining stock at seriously discounted prices. Visit while they’re hot and selling out fast.
Just a few, but I’d love to know where you find your hidden treasures, don’t forget to share.
But be careful the rabbit hole is deep and winding…
