Thanksgiving…When Families Reveal the Truth About Their Heirlooms
Thanksgiving does something funny: it exposes which heirlooms people actually care about — and which ones they absolutely don’t.
Thanksgiving does something funny: it exposes which heirlooms people actually care about — and which ones they absolutely don’t.
I recently had an appointment on the North Shore of Long Island with a gentleman and his wife who owned one of the most beautiful collections I’ve seen in a while — art glass, porcelain, bronzes, jewelry, silver. Walking into their home felt like stepping into a private museum. Every shelf glimmered with pieces that had clearly been chosen with care.
Being named the executor of an estate sounds like an honor — a sign of trust from a loved one. But for many people, especially during emotional times, it becomes a complicated, time-consuming responsibility.
While perhaps not as physically taxing as building a firepit, I can tell you many stories about the perils and pitfalls of DIY antique sales, because, in all honesty, it’s difficult to assess value by yourself and without training or experience.
It’s that time of year again when people’s thoughts turn to Spring cleaning, and while it might not be enjoyable when it is going on, the end results certainly bring pleasure.
At Syl-Lee we also know that at the start of Spring, people begin to think seriously about organizing, donating or selling items they no longer need or want.
Are you thinking about moving? People start to contemplate the thought of moving when the end of Winter is in their sightlines, and even though the flowers aren’t blooming yet in the Northeast, we hope that Spring will be here soon.
A New Year is here and many of us are evaluating the objects in our homes, the things we have collected over the years or were handed down by our parents and grandparents and asking ourselves what do I wish to keep and what do I wish to sell.
For many of our customers, connecting with us is the very first time that they find themselves buying or selling an antique or collectible. There’s a bit of intimidation stepping into the unknown and, of course, they are concerned about money, as in spending too much or getting too little.
Anticipating a move often prompts stress and anxiety. Did I make the right decision, will I like my new place, or can I get everything organized in time for the big day are just some of the things that can make you feel uneasy.
I know, I know, I’m pushing the season way too soon, BUT, I must tell you that it’s time (or maybe “almost” time) to start thinking about holiday shopping. Sure, the holidays are going to be a lot different this year. Families and friends have to figure out how to gather safely and will probably have to curtail the number of people that are invited to any get-togethers.
Design Auctions The 1950s and 60s were decades that conjure to mind liquid lunches, a martini after a hard day in the office, and low slung furniture with clean lines. Fans of the show Mad Men, which ended a few weeks ago will be familiar with this design aesthetic from the show’s sets which epitomized mid-century modern design. Later this week, Christie’s, Sotheby’s, and Phillip’s auction houses will be having their design auctions in New York.