Behind the Booth: Chasing the Sound of Vintage with Stephen
Welcome to Behind the Booth, where we get to know the incredible vendors behind our Vintage Emporiums.
Discover their stories, favorite finds, collecting passions, and the personalities that make every visit a new adventure.
Meet Stephen, the Music Man at NVE Ware-House!
1. Give us the elevator pitch. Who are you, and what treasure-filled path led you to vintage?
I’m Stephen. I started thrifting when I was young, parents would take me, which got me interested. My dad would take me to yard sales, he loves music, which got me into music and from there, when I got older, I started buying and selling clothes, specifically music related, as well as vintage and used clothing.
2. If someone walked into your booth for the first time, what would they find—and what might surprise them?
They would find lots and lots of music t-shirts to start off, and lots of other nostalgic and music related items. The surprise would be that there is also a lot of houseware, glasses, and other items.
3. Describe your booth style in three words. (No pressure, but we’ll judge them.)
Rock and roll.
4. What are you always hunting for when you’re out picking, thrifting, or treasure hunting?
When I am hunting, I always go to t-shirt section first. I look for t-shirts, records, anything music related, pop-culture items, and very nostalgic things. I look for anything that would catch people’s eye from when they were younger.
5. What is your current favorite piece in your booth?
A very cool red velvet lamp with tassels from the 1950s.
6. What’s one thing people often overlook when shopping vintage?
People overlook the older music shirts that are obscure and not the popular ones. Everyone wants Metallica shirt, but there are other cool older band t-shirts that are often overlooked.
If your booth had a theme song, what would it be?
Rag and Bone by The White Stripes.
Visit the Booth
Inspired by Stephen’s story? You can explore their collection at NVE Ware-House, he’s vendor #132, located on Balmville Road, Aisle 1.
Like every booth at the Emporium, it’s always evolving—so no two visits are ever the same.