Let me introduce you to our Shopkeeper, Shayna from Vessel. She is our current Shopkeeper of the Month and one true asset to VK! Shayna is sharing with us this month about why she loves sourcing and a little bio about herself and the journey to Vessel.
One of my favorite things about sourcing vintage and antiques is the expectancy in every expedition. There are no guarantees of finds. It’s the thrill of hope; the anticipation of finding a treasure. The joy is in the hunt as much as the find. With the same anticipation and passion you’ll find me at the local flea markets, estate sales, and sifting through old barns and attics. Not for myself, but for you.
As a young child you would have found me in the backyard or local creek bed looking for fossils, pretending to be an archaeologist on the latest dig site. In those early years I learned patience in searching. When I was a bit older, just out of high school I worked at a consignment and vintage shop, Something Olde, Something New in Slingerlands, NY. For years it was voted “Best of in the Capital Region”, and no surprise because the team of women there are incredibly knowledgeable. They trained me not only to research vintage and antiques, but to also connect with people. At the same time I was studying anthropology and archaeology, and imagined myself sifting through dirt,
or in the curation department of a museum. Instead I met my husband during my last semester of college and we now have two little boys. As we moms so often do, I put my passion on the back burner.
As my babies grew into toddlers, my mommy escape time was always at vintage and antique stores. I’d feel like myself again as I wandered garage sales and thrift stores, or walked around our local antique mall. Meanwhile, scrolling Instagram, I witnessed the emergence of a vintage reseller community in its early stages. I was intrigued, but hesitant to get involved. Finally, with the encouragement of my husband and sister-in-law, I began my journey as “Vessel Vintage” on Instagram. Then after some early success, I was blessed enough to have this opportunity to become a Shopkeeper on Vintage Keepers. I’m so thankful for the community of shopkeepers on Vintage Keepers, there is no lack of passion among these extraordinary women!
As you view my treasures, you’ll notice they are inspired by travel, culture, and history. If I were to name my style, it would be “The Well-Traveled Home”. You can expect some treasures from abroad soon, as our family is traveling to Switzerland, Germany, and England for the month of August. Although the shop on Vintage Keepers will be on vacation mode, follow along and join me on Instagram @vessel_vintage.
Finally, I’d like to share with you the origin of the word “Vessel” and what it means to me.
“ For we have this treasure in earthen vessels to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us”.
(2 Corinthians 4:7)
Vessel reminds me daily of my innate need for God. He chose us to be His imperfect vessels to share His love to the world. It’s Christ in us that brings the knowledge of God to people, whether we feel worthy, confident, or able; that is true freedom. When I hop on Vintage Keepers or Instagram, I see my simple logo, and it reminds me of the One who equips me, strengthens me, and sustains me. It reminds me that we, as earthen vessels, hold this great power and treasure inside of us.
Check out more of Vessel here on Vintage Keepers!
