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 Mary, A Lifelong Collector with an Eye for the Extraordinary!

1. Give us the elevator pitch. Who are you, and what treasure-filled path led you to vintage?

I am Mary. I have been a vendor in Hyde Park shop since the early 1990s. I was at one point the manager of the shop and before this I was a retail store manager. I have been collecting since I was 7 when my mom brought me to thrift stores and rummage sales. I started collecting salt and pepper shakers and had over 300 sets which my mom disposed of when I moved to California, but those salt and pepper shakers started my vintage collecting. When I came back to New York, I bought 125-year-old house that I decorated with antiques. I bought antiques at flea markets, estate sales, and auctions. I left my retail store manager job and went into the antique business. This shop means a lot to me, and I have met a lot of nice and interesting people and hope to remain here for a long, long time.

2. If someone walked into your booth for the first time, what would they find—and what might surprise them?

If someone walked into my booth for the first time, they would find anything and everything! I like stuff, so I purchase whatever appeals to me. They will be surprised by the variety and amount of merchandise neatly squeezed into my space.

3. Describe your booth style in three words. (No pressure, but we’ll judge them.)

Something for everyone.

4. What are you always hunting for when you’re out picking, thrifting, or treasure hunting?

I am looking for anything profitable for me that someone else might like.

5. What is your current favorite piece in your booth?

My current favorite piece is the 1980’s Art Deco revival cat lamp by Soraparilla Designs.

6. What’s one thing people often overlook when shopping vintage?

When shopping vintage, lot of people just buy to buy, and to bring something home. People need not overlook a possible item that will go with their décor and their home and be intentional about their purchases.

7. If your booth had a theme song, what would it be?

Memories by Barbara Streissand.

Visit the Booth

Inspired by Mary’s story? You can explore their collection at Hyde Park Vintage Emporium, she’s vendor #26, and her booth is located in the left corner of the building - in the big room.

Like every booth at the Emporium, it’s always evolving—so no two visits are ever the same.

Hyde Park Vintage Emporium & Antiques Center