The Best Antiques Guide Along Northern California’s HWY 101

Gin'gilli's Vintage Home
Gin’gilli’s Vintage Home

There’s something incredibly romantic about the open road. The scenic beauty, the freedom, the adventure. This 4th of July weekend, my sweet hubby Gary and I decided to immerse ourselves in just that romance, exploring the breathtaking Northern California’s Highway 101.

Encircled by lush vineyards and the intoxicating beauty of the wine country, this route is an adventurous blend of stunning nature and charming towns filled with hidden gems in the form of antiques shops and vintage home decor boutiques. Our journey was a fantastic one – the perfect blend of relaxation, sightseeing, and of course, treasure hunting for antiques and collectibles.

Our itinerary included three must-visit places: Gin’gilli’s Vintage Home in Geyserville, Mill Street Antiques in Cloverdale, and Country Porch Antiques in Hopland. So buckle up and get ready for a recounting of our treasure hunt along the beautiful highway!

Gin’gilli’s Vintage Home, Geyserville

Our first stop is the quaint town of Geyserville, home to the delightful Gin’gilli’s Vintage Home. As soon as you step inside this charming shop, you’ll find yourself transported to a bygone era. Its collection boasts an eclectic mix of antiques, salvage, furniture, vintage cameras and vinyl, vintage toys and collectibles, jewelry, vintage furniture, crafted creations, and distinctive home decor that evokes a sense of nostalgia. Every piece tells a story, from rustic farmhouse tables to Victorian-era curiosities and retro-inspired home accessories.

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Vintage Easter Kitsch: Your Guide to Collectible Bunnies & More

Easter brings a playful spirit with its vibrant colors, adorable bunnies, and of course, hidden eggs! If you have a soft spot for nostalgic charm, you’ll adore the world of vintage Easter kitsch. Think ceramic bunny planters, whimsical 1950s figurines, and more. Let’s dive into this cheerful world and discover how to build your own collection of Easter treasures.

The Timeless Charm of Vintage Easter Collectibles

Vintage Easter kitsch has a way of stealing hearts across generations. The bright colors, cheerful designs, and pure whimsy take us back to simpler, more playful times. If you’re searching for ways to add a dose of vintage delight to your Easter decor, look no further than these classics:

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Why Collecting Vintage Snowman Figurines from the 1950s-1960s is so Fun

Vintage Norcrest Snowman Family Salt and Pepper Shakers
Vintage Norcrest Snowman Family Salt and Pepper Shakers

There’s something undeniably magical about vintage snowman figurines, especially those from the 1950s and 1960s. For many collectors, these charming figures evoke a sense of nostalgia and warmth, transporting us back to the simplicity and joy of yesteryears. As a fellow enthusiast, I’m excited to share some tips and fun facts with our collector group!

Pictures in this post are part of my vintage Kitschy Christmas snowman collection and some of my very favorites and I hope you enjoy.

Vintage Chained Snowman Family Japan 1950s
Vintage Chained Snowman Family Japan 1950s

1. The Allure of the Era: The 1950s and 1960s were a golden era for whimsical and festive decorations. Snowman figurines from this period often feature unique designs and hand-painted details that are rare in today’s mass-produced items.

2. Materials and Craftsmanship: These figurines were often made from ceramics, wood, and even early forms of plastic. Their handcrafted nature means each piece has its own character. Look for signature styles like glossy finishes, vibrant colors, and artisan touches.

Norcrest Snowman
Norcrest Snowman

3. Identifying Authentic Pieces: One key to collecting is knowing how to identify authentic vintage pieces. Check for maker’s marks, dates, and country of origin. Some renowned manufacturers from this era include Lefton, Napco, Norcrest, Ucagco, and Holt Howard.

4. Rarity and Value: The rarity of a figurine can significantly impact its value. Rare pieces, or those from renowned manufacturers, are particularly sought after. But remember, the sentimental value often outweighs the monetary worth!

Vintage Josef Originals Snowman Planters or Candy Containers
Vintage Josef Originals Snowman Planters or Candy Containers

5. Preserving Your Collection: To maintain their charm, it’s essential to properly care for these vintage treasures. Keep them away from direct sunlight to prevent fading, and clean them gently to avoid damaging the paint or material as many were cold painted and it can flake off.

Fun Fact: Did you know that in the 1950s and 1960s, snowman figurines were popular gifts and holiday decorations, often symbolizing the joy and wonder of the winter season?

Norcrest Snowman Kids Salt and Pepper Shakers
Norcrest Snowman Kids Salt and Pepper Shakers

6. Community and Sharing: Joining groups like my Vintage Kitschy Christmas group is a fantastic way to share insights, find rare pieces, and celebrate the joy of collecting. Don’t hesitate to share your latest finds or seek advice from fellow collectors.

7. Enjoy the Hunt: Lastly, remember that part of the fun in collecting is the hunt itself. Whether it’s scouring antique shops, online auctions, or flea markets, each find has its own story.

Josef Originals Snowman Salt and Pepper Shakers
Josef Originals Snowman Salt and Pepper Shakers

Collecting vintage snowman figurines is not just about owning a piece of history; it’s about preserving the warmth and joy of a bygone era. Let’s continue to share our passion and keep the spirit of these charming snowmen alive for generations to come!

Books

Best Collector Antique Books
Best Collector Antique Books

There is no better way to learn about antiques than by absorbing as much knowledge as possible from books written by experts on the subject. These books cover vintage Christmas and kitschy mid-century modern antiques and collectibles with numerous photographs, details about when an item was made and even values (values that were published at the time the book was printed) and even include manufacturer markings and signatures, the different labels and tags too that an item might have and where the item was made.  Here are a few titles worth checking out:

With these great resources available on vintage kitschy mid-century modern antiques and collectibles, there’s no excuse not to become an expert! Learning what there is to know about this era is easier than ever before. Happy hunting!

You might also enjoy my Vintage Christmas Collecting Series for all things vintage kitschy Christmas.

5 Tips for Collecting Vintage Harold Gale Santa Dolls

For collectors of holiday memorabilia, vintage Harold Gale Santa dolls hold a special place in the heart of Christmas nostalgia. Harold Gale, known for creating whimsical and charming Santa figures from the 1940s through the 1980s, left a legacy that continues to captivate collectors and holiday enthusiasts alike. In this blog post, we’ll explore the world of collecting these delightful dolls, share the top five tips for collectors, and delve into the most desirable colors and their values.

Top 5 Tips for Collecting Harold Gale Santa Dolls

  1. Know Your History: Understanding the history of Harold Gale and his company is crucial. His dolls were not just Christmas decorations; they were pieces of art. Each doll was handcrafted with attention to detail, making them unique.
  2. Condition is Key: The condition of the doll significantly affects its value. Look for dolls with intact clothing, no missing parts, fluffy white beards, and minimal wear and tear. Original tags and boxes can significantly increase the doll’s worth.
  3. Rare Colors and Designs: While traditional red is common, Harold Gale also produced Santa’s in rare colors like pink, silver, and gold. These unusual colors are often more sought after by collectors.
  4. Verify Authenticity: With the popularity of these dolls, replicas and imitations have surfaced. Familiarize yourself with the specific characteristics of genuine Harold Gale dolls, such as the unique facial features, body shapes, and materials used.
  5. Join Collector Groups: Engaging with other collectors through online forums or local clubs can provide valuable insights, tips, and sometimes access to rare finds.

Most Desirable Colors and Their Worth

Pink Harold Gayle Santa Claus
Pink Harold Gayle Santa Claus

The most coveted Harold Gale Santa dolls are often those in unique colors. Here’s a look at some of the most desirable colors:

  1. Pink: A pink Harold Gale Santa is a rare find and can fetch a high price, often ranging from $300 to $500, depending on the condition.
  2. Silver and Gold: These colors are less common than the traditional red and can be worth anywhere from $200 to $400.
  3. White and Cream: These elegant versions are also sought after, with values typically between $150 and $300.
  4. Blue: Though less common, a blue Harold Gale Santa is a unique addition to any collection, potentially worth up to $350.
  5. Green: A green Santa is a rare treasure and can command prices similar to the pink ones if in good condition.
Classic Red Harold Gale Santa
Classic Red Harold Gale Santa

Conclusion

Collecting vintage Harold Gale Santa dolls is not just about the monetary value; it’s about preserving a piece of holiday history and the joy these charming figures bring. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting, the world of Harold Gale Santas offers a delightful journey into the heart of Christmas nostalgia. Happy collecting!

Holt Howard Noel Santa Coffee Mug
Holt Howard Noel Santa Coffee Mug

Christmas coffee never tasted better than in a Holt Howard NOEL Santa inspired coffee mug!! Learn more here

Learn more about vintage Christmas collectibles in our popular Vintage Christmas Collecting series.

Happy collecting!

The Best Vintage Christmas: 25 Unique Gifts for Her Guide

25 best vintage Christmas gifts for her
25 best vintage Christmas gifts for her

Discover 25 unique vintage gifts for her this Christmas! Featuring retro jewelry, Pyrex, fashion, and more for a festive, mid-century celebration.

The holiday season is upon us, and if you have a special someone in your life who’s passionate about all things vintage, mid-century, and kitschy, then you’re in for a treat! Our vintage Christmas gift guide has a curated collection of retro-inspired gifts that will transport her back to the golden era of mid-century design? From vintage jewelry to Pyrex, fashion, barware, vinyl LPs, and iconic Holt Howard Santa and Pixieware collectibles, we’ve made vintage gifting easy with our gift guide of 25 fabulous gift ideas that are sure to make her Christmas merry and bright. So, grab a cup of cocoa, put on your favorite vintage holiday tunes, and let’s dive in!

1. Vintage Brooches: Start her collection with a dazzling vintage brooch from the 1950s. Whether she’s into whimsical animal shapes or elegant floral designs, a mid-century brooch is the perfect accessory to add some retro flair to her outfits. Some brands to look for are: Coro, Eisenberg, Trifari, Sarah Coventry, Weiss, Joseph Wiesner.

Vintage Pink Pyrex
Vintage Pink Pyrex

2. Pyrex Nesting Bowls: Every vintage enthusiast knows the value of classic Pyrex nesting bowls. These colorful kitchen staples from the mid-century era are both functional and decorative, making them a cherished addition to any vintage kitchen. Some patterns to look for are Gooseberry, Starburst, Pyrex Dot, Snowflake , and Butterprint.

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Crazy4MeStyle: Unique Vintage Inspired Festive Holiday Wear

Celebrate the Season with a Nostalgic Twist!

The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to spread cheer and nostalgia than by donning attire that harks back to the charming eras of the 1950s and 1960s? At Crazy4MeStyle, we’re excited to unveil our exclusive collection of festive attire, inspired by the iconic vintage items that have captivated hearts for generations.

Vintage Elegance Meets Modern Comfort

Our collection is a delightful blend of retro charm and contemporary style. Each piece is thoughtfully designed to evoke the warm, cheerful spirit of vintage Pyrex dishes, kitschy Christmas decor, and the beloved Holt Howard Santas and Pixieware. Imagine wearing a shirt that not only looks festive but also tells a story of a bygone era!

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