For some, an old coffee table at a garage sale might be seen as just that. Old. But to vintage aficionado Jackie Bensley, owner of Peacock Vintage, that same table might be just the thing she is looking for.
Jackie has been buying and selling antiques for nearly ten years and has become an expert in the field. For several years, she purchased and sold items online, mostly for her own entertainment. In July of 2012, however, she opened the shop on 4th Avenue in downtown Olympia and has been retailing treasures there ever since.
Peacock Vintage specializes in mid-century modern antiques. By definition, this era of design existed from 1933 to 1965. It was inspired by the simplicity of Danish modern design. Bensley has spent hours upon hours researching furniture, house wares and decor from this era. Jackie was able to identify the production date of an Eames chair for Herman Miller by its assembly. “The bolt pattern on the bottom of this piece was only used between 1947 and 1949,” she explained as she showed me the underside of the beautiful wooden chair.
A big part of Jackie’s job, and her favorite activity, is shopping for inventory. She buys most of the antiques locally at estate sales and spends plenty of time sifting through local thrift stores to find hidden gems. “It’s all about being in the right place at the right time,” she said. Jackie once acquired a small piece of Italian pottery for two dollars that was valued at over five hundred. When asked about her favorite items to shop for she said, “I always look at the furniture first.”
You may be surprised to find out that not every item she collects for the store is procured in mint condition. Jackie, along with the help of her boyfriend Mike, puts in long hours refinishing tables and touching up paint. Her most recent foray into renovation involves upholstery. After teaching herself the ins and outs of the process, she started on small pieces like chair pads. Her first big attempt was a beautiful tufted couch with wood trim, which she recently completed. “I’m pretty proud of this one,” she beamed.
Bensley’s pottery alcove is one of her favorite collections in the store. Photo credit: Rachel Roth
The shop includes a wide variety of inventory. One alcove is filled with shelves of hand-made pottery. Another features a myriad of blue and green glassware. Hung high on the walls you can find beautiful paintings and framed needlework. There are cabinets and chairs and a large collection of textiles. With only one of each item on hand, the stock changes daily, making regular trips to Peacock Vintage a must.
Jackie loves her customers and being a part of the downtown retail community. A lot of her clientele is local, but she also sells to antique dealers from Portland and Seattle quite frequently. During her time in business, she has learned a great deal about her industry and has created a strong bond with the community and her local customers.
The five-year anniversary for Peacock Vintage is July 12, 2017. She plans to celebrate with a party and sale to thank her patrons and friends for their constant support.
The best way to stay apprised of the happenings at Peacock is by following along on Instagram and by liking their Facebook page. There is a new website in the works which will be launching very soon. It will feature an online store where she hopes to expand the business.
A trip to Peacock Vintage is more than just a retail experience. Jackie has carefully handpicked each item in the store. Most items come with a colorful anecdote about where they came from and why they are so special. “I have a hard time parting with a lot of the things here,” she said “but if someone appreciates it as much as I do, it’s a lot easier.”
I left the store that day with an appreciation for a beautifully woven lampshade that now resides in my living room.
Peacock Vintage
360-250-0885
512 East 4th Avenue in Olympia
Hours: Tuesday-Saturday: 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Sunday 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Closed Monday
