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New Vessel 27 Shop in Kingston Offers Antiques and Collectibles

I always said that one day I'd like to open a little antique shop and have special one-of-a-kind pieces."

Carol Lini's dream came true last August, when she and her mother Joyce Lini opened Vessel 27 at 4587 Route 27 (46 Main Street) in Kingston.

"The shop was named for our location on Route 27 and also because of the significance of vessel in pottery, since pottery is a specialty for us," explains Carol. "We started with miniatures and pottery, and then it has evolved into jewelry and other items, including many collectibles."

"We are set apart by all the hand-done items, which are all individually selected," points out Mrs. Lini. "Carole is very particular and only chooses things she likes. A lot are pieces from her own collection, including some antiques. She has a great eye, and brings in new things three times a week."

The shop's attractive display includes pottery, glassware, miniatures, jewelry, artwork, decorative pieces from tin roofs, African pieces, and a variety of miscellany, all shown to best advantage in the store's handsome burgundy and green decor.

American and imported items are available, and Weller pottery, Stangl, McCoy, Herend, Rosenthal, Roseville, Lenox, and Trenton pottery are especially in demand, says Mrs. Lini.

Decorative Pieces

Among the pieces currently in stock are an antique Rosenthal duck from Germany, Herend handpainted boy riding a swan, a Zsolnay handpainted dog, and a very special vintage Pillsbury Doughboy cookie jar.

"We have great decorative pieces made from old tin roofs," points out Mrs. Lini. "They include large stars, also in basket and urn shapes, or large individual letters, which are perfect for the patio, fence, or fireplace, and customers love them."

The miniature selection is another popular feature at the shop, and it offers animal figurines, vases, pitchers, etc., all with a variety of special glazes. Many of the customers are collectors of miniatures, notes Mrs. Lini.

"What is surprising is the number of men who come in, and all are very interested in our selection. They often know just what they want, and frequently look at the miniatures.

In addition, there are framed vintage postage stamps which have been very popular, and are perfect as a special accent. They can also be used in an attractive grouping.

Customers especially enjoy browsing among the fascinating collection of items, adds Jackie Mrozicki. "People are surprised when they come in and see how much is here. They often come in when they have seen something in the window. There are so many things in the store, you can spend hours just looking and always find something different."

Special Requests

A lot of spontaneous buying takes place, reports Mrs. Lini. "People see something they like, and they have to get it! Also, if they come into the shop looking for a particular item, and we don't have it, the buyer will look for it. We always try to fill special requests."

"People are definitely coming in," she adds. "We are very encouraged. We have lots of repeats, and they are coming from all over, including Princeton, New Brunswick, even Stockton – all over the area and beyond."

A real specialty of the store is jewelry, she adds, and it is certainly a favorite of many customers. "People love the variety of our selection, and especially the big bold pieces. Big colored stones are popular right now in bracelets, necklaces and earrings, and we also have brooches, including some antique brooches.

"Pins are in a variety of styles and sizes, with tulip pin, rhinestone music note pin, and turquoise star pin all available."

A stunning, dramatic necklace features hammered sterling silver design, as well as coral strands and crystal beads.

"We also have a big high quality canary yellow faux diamond ring, which is especially in demand now," says Carol Lini.

"Also very popular today are long dangling earrings with little crystals," notes Ms. Mrozicki, adding, "I like to play dress-up! I try on all the great jewelry, and everyone admires it. And, we have both clips and pierced earrings."

Sterling silver is important at Vessel 27, and in addition to jewelry, there are sterling silver belt buckles and money clips with horse motif.

Beaded Bags

As a complement to the jewelry, the shop offers a wonderful vintage jewelry box, with an old-fashioned Valentine's Day card on the lid, velvet bottom, and brushed wood. A special gift for a mother, wife, daughter, or friend.

Another specialty is a vintage Schiaparelli perfume bottle from Paris. Beaded evening bags from the 1920s are on display as well, and there is also an assortment of fragrant soaps and sachets.

The shop will also soon offer a selection of outdoor items, such as garden statuary, planters, and urns.

Vessel 27 offers a wide price range, with items from $15 to $300. Framed postage stamps are $15, necklaces and bracelets $15 to $25, and antique jewelry up to $50 and $100.

The shop also takes items on consignment.

Mrs. Lini, Carol, and Jackie Mrozicki are all delighted with the customer response to the store.

"It is really starting to take off," says Mrs. Lini. "So many people are genuinely interested. I especially enjoy it because I am a collector too, and it's fun to see all these terrific items. I enjoy working with the public, and I am meeting wonderful people all the time.

"Even if they don't buy something, they enjoy browsing, and I enjoy visiting with them. Also, I want to remind customers there is parking right on the street and the side streets."

Vessel 27 offers gift certificates, including special jewelry bags, and is open Tuesday through Sunday 10 to 5. (609) 921-8872.