Here’s my two cents on shopping for antiques: when you’re out there browsing, if you see something that you absolutely, 100% LOVE, just buy it. If at all possible, I DO NOT walk away from something that I see that’s perfect. If you talk yourself out of something that you love because it’s too expensive, two things will happen (in my experience): 1. No matter how long you hunt, you will probably never find anything as perfect as that lamp, table, pillow, rug, etc. 2. You will kick yourself for the rest of your days because you let that incredible thing get away. Sure, they’re just things, and maybe you don’t need it, but the point of furniture, besides serving a functional purpose, is for it to express who you are and for them to create an environment where you want to spend your days. If you don’t buy things that feel right and that express your personality, then you’ll never feel comfortable at home.

I gave myself this same speech when I found the above drop leaf table. I don’t have the slightest tinge of guilt about buying it though, because just as I thought, it’s divine, in my space, and in general.

PS- Bill Ingram had the perfect quote about this in July/August 2011 House Beautiful. I’ll find it and post it for y’all soon!