Curated Corners: Inside the Collections of 3 Flipside Enthusiasts
There's a certain magic in unearthing a discarded gem from a bygone era, hidden among the remnants of someone's life. Estate sales and secondhand shops offer a treasure trove of possibilities, each item carrying a rich history along with a new story waiting to be told. From vintage furniture to eclectic knick-knacks, these curated collections are not just about acquiring items, but about connecting with the past and breathing new life into forgotten treasures.
This week On the Flipside with Notorious Vintage, we talk to three longtime flipside customers and devoted collectors who gave us a peek inside their homes and unique collections. Spoiler Alert: the last feature is my own collection because I couldn’t pass up an opportunity to show off my #flipsidefinds.
Blake Richardson
Flipside Shopper Since 2020
How would you describe your design aesthetic?
Maximalist
Tell us about your collections
I am an avid collector with a deep appreciation for timeless elegance and craftsmanship. My collection includes exquisite Chinoiserie pieces from large screen to porcelain, Staffordshire dogs, and Hollywood Regency—each piece resonating with an old-money sophistication. Biedermeier furniture, with its understated beauty and masterful design, is one of my current favorites, it's modern- simple-classic yet beautiful and goes with any style. My overall aesthetic reflects a carefully curated blend of history and modern, as ive gathered over generations, yet styled with a fresh, fun touch.
What's your favorite thing about collecting?
You get to be yourself, stand out and be different! In a world where you can go out and buy what your friends or neighbors have, stand out- Be yourself and be YOU. If you love it, you will find a place for it. If not put it in storage until you do find a place for it. I promise, just knowing you have it will make you a lot happier! (Maybe I am just a hoarder lol).
What's your favorite piece from your collection?
My current favorite in the house would be the Staffordshire dogs and a pair of oil paintings I paired them with. We have now moved twice; the table gets photographed and set up the exact same way each time. I think once you know, it’s right - it’s right!
In your opinion, how many items constitute a collection?
This is where I get into trouble. A friend of mine, Carla Cline, once told me, "3's a collection." If that is true, I have a lot of collections, and they have multiplied over the years. MORE IS MORE.
What is it about Flipside that keeps you a loyal customer?
Jess! She even follows me on Instagram and knows things I might like! Of course, all of their estate sales have interesting items.
Where can readers find out more about you?
Instagram : Blakewrichardson
TikTok blakewilliam12
Anything else you want us to know?
We bought a new to us historic home downtown Indianapolis that we are renovating and will be posting all kinds of progress on social media as we go! I am a full time realtor and do interior design and collecting on the side!
Sarah and Jess at the Flipside Showroom
Sarah Harker
Flipside Shopper Since 2018
How would you describe your design aesthetic?
Eclectic English Country
Tell us about your collections
We might be here awhile : ) I collect mini candlesticks, planters, thimbles, bottle openers, art, dishes, baskets, and lots of other misc home decor. I love to decorate with a mix of new and old and the unexpected. My Aunt Margo introduced me to antiquing and collecting. I love adventuring with her.
What's your favorite thing about collecting?
You never know what you are going to find! I also love that when I find unique items rather than something everyone has.
What's your favorite piece from your collection?
My favorite piece is a cabinet from the home of Indianapolis artist, Nancy Noël- one of my favorite Flipside sales. It is so special, and it feels like I own a special piece of Indiana history.
In your opinion, how many items constitute a collection?
More than one! Ha! The "start" of a collection!
What is it about Flipside that keeps you a loyal customer?
Jess and the team are so organized and helpful. I love the way everything is set up. And I ALWAYS find treasures at a great price.
Where can readers find more about you?
@sarahjessicaharker on Instagram is the best place to find me and follow my Flipside adventures.
Tori Sandler
Flipside Shopper Since 2018
Clown art wall in Tori’s home office
How would you describe your design aesthetic?
Nostalgic Maximalism. Think layered bold colors and retro patterns primarily from the 60’s/70s, but pulling from all eras, and almost exclusively secondhand. All about that dopamine decor!
Tell us about your collections
My largest collection by far are my clowns. Last count came in around 113 between the clown figurines and art. I also collect embroidery and needlework art, turquoise pottery, vintage paperweights, gemstone spheres, and all things butterflies.
What's your favorite thing about collecting?
As a vintage shop owner, I come across A LOT of unique items. I love that each thing tells a story. It’s a rush to take something discarded and breathe new life into it. Sometimes that means repairing or upcycling, but that just adds to the uniqueness while also fulfilling my crafty nature! I take extreme pride in the fact that there is ZERO chance the vibe of my space will be like anyone else’s. I appreciate being able to express my creativity through design, and as a homebody, creating a comfy sanctuary that perfectly reflects my personality and brings me immense joy is critical.
What's your favorite piece from your collection?
I’d say its a tie between a vintage stained glass clown chandelier that I found from an antique mall while on a road trip and my 1970’s paper mache parachuting clowns.
What is it about Flipside that keeps you a loyal customer?
Flipside sales are by far the most organized estate sales in the city from my experience. The staff is the absolute sweetest and so helpful. Their pricing is super fair, even for a reseller! I (and my social anxiety) appreciate that I can plan ahead for sales through their listings and know exactly what to expect from each sale before I even arrive.
Where can readers find more about you?
You can shop my brand, Notorious Vintage in two Indianapolis locations: Satellite Vintage in Broad Ripple and Market Vintage in Irvington, as well as online HERE! You can also catch me right here On The Flipside with Notorious Vintage every other week!
What do you collect? Tell us in the comments and tag Flipside on Instagram with you collections and use hashtag #flipsidefinds.
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