New Year’s Day started with an adventure. Skott and I decided to shake things up and check out an Estate Sale Warehouse in Oceanside for the first time. I don’t know why it’s taken us this long to explore a place like this—back in the day, I loved thrifting. It was my go-to for finding unique treasures, but somewhere along the way, about 5 or 6 years ago, I just… stopped. No real reason why—it just fell off my radar.
Walking into that warehouse brought it all back. The thrill of the hunt, the endless rows of forgotten treasures—it felt like rediscovering an old love. And then I saw it: the mirror. It was stunning. Beautifully aged, perfectly sized, and practically begging to come home with us. I was already envisioning it in our space. Skott, however, wasn’t quite on board. His imagination immediately went into overdrive, and before I knew it, he was giving me his best Haunted Mansion pitch: "What if it’s haunted? ... "Do you remember the end of the ride? Beware of hitchhiking ghosts"
I tried to reason with him. It’s a mirror—not a portal to the underworld. But his ghostly concerns were unwavering, and after much back and forth, we left without it.
For the next three days, that mirror haunted me. I couldn’t stop thinking about it. What if someone else snagged it? What if I never found another piece like it? By the weekend, I had made up my mind: we were going back.
This time, it felt like fate. The mirror was still there! BUT!!!! there was a young woman who walked in right before me who was eyeballing it - I quickly laid claim to it (don't ask me what I did I'll never tell - just kidding). If it still being there wasn’t a sign, I don’t know what is. Skott grudgingly agreed (still keeping an eye out for any ghostly activity), and we brought it home. Now in a safe space, waiting for its forever spot. Even Skott’s starting to admit that it’s growing on him.
Why We’re Back in Love with Estate Sales and Thrifting
This little adventure reminded me of everything I used to love about thrifting—and why estate sales are worth exploring, too. Beyond the fun of finding unique pieces, there are so many benefits to shopping this way:
Unique Finds with a Story
Every piece has a past. Whether it’s a vintage mirror or an antique chair, you’re bringing a little history into your home.
Eco-Friendly Shopping
Estate sales and thrift stores let you give new life to old items, reducing waste and helping the planet in the process.
Budget-Friendly Style
High-quality pieces at a fraction of the price? Yes, please. You don’t need a big budget to create a beautifully styled home.
Creative Potential
Many finds can be reimagined with a little DIY magic. A coat of paint or a simple repair can make a piece truly yours.
Inspiration Everywhere
Shopping secondhand sparks creativity. You never know what you’ll find—or how it might inspire your next project.
Good Laughs
Estate sales and thrift shops are full of quirky finds that make you stop and laugh. From odd sculptures to mystery gadgets, they’re as entertaining as they are inspiring. Sometimes, the best treasures are the stories (and laughs) they bring along.
Tips for Estate Sales and Thrifting
If you’re new to estate sales (like we were!) or ready to rediscover thrifting, here are some tips to make the most of it:
Go with an Open Mind
You might not find exactly what you’re looking for, but you’ll often discover something even better.
Inspect for Quality
Look for sturdy construction, especially with furniture. Wear and tear can be fixed, but good bones are a must.
Don’t Wait Too Long
If you love something, grab it. Good finds don’t stick around for long!
Stay Consistent
The best treasures often take time to find, so keep exploring.
Final Thoughts
As for our mirror, you’ll have to stay tuned to see where it ends up and how it transforms our space. This experience reminded me why I loved thrifting in the first place: the joy of finding something special, the stories behind the pieces, and the magic of giving them new life in our home.
What about you? Have you rediscovered a past love or found something unforgettable at an estate sale or thrift store? Let’s hear your stories in the comments!
With a humble heart,
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