Inside look at Vintage Atelier

Just a quick introduction!

In Thorn, located in a building more than 300 years old, you will find Vintage Atelier. By combining the nostalgic atmosphere of the exterior with a range of special products, owner Suzan Wolters succeeded in creating a shop with a unique character. Her entrepreneurship is shaped by her intuitive approach, ability to be flexible and enthusiasm for personal connections with her customers. The editors of TICA were curious to hear her story and visited this authentic shop.

What led you to start Vintage Atelier?

After years of working as a Product and Brand Manager for interior and lifestyle brands, entrepreneurship started itching. I wanted more freedom and to no longer tie myself to an employer. With a background in a family of antique dealers and a passion for unique furniture and jewellery, it felt like a natural step.

What kind of shop concept is Vintage Atelier?

My physical shop is mostly frequented by tourists, but locals have also discovered my shop. With the webshop, I mainly target customers from all over the Netherlands and Belgium who are interested in vintage furniture. Because the shop is not that big, I offer a unique mix of old and new. Sustainability is also important to me; many of the brands are fair trade.

Get inspired by Vintage Atelier

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What makes Vintage Atelier unique?

Vintage Atelier sets itself apart by not just selling beautiful products, but making it a real experience. The atmosphere in the shop is unique, with changing fairy-tale window displays and lovely scents of soaps and amber cubes. Our shop, located in a listed building with a rich history, fits perfectly into the atmosphere of the old town of Thorn.

You also travel to Paris for inspiration. How do you translate those trends into the style of Vintage Atelier?

Right! Twice a year I visit the interior design trade fair “Maison et Objet” for inspiration. We work in the shop with large themed tables that translate these trends into Vintage Atelier’s unique style. I often then find beautiful products again at TICA that fit perfectly to complete the picture.

For what reasons do you (also) buy from TICA?

Because it gives me the opportunity to try out products – you can buy by the piece – and to add new items to my range each season. I try to buy beautiful items for everyone and for every budget. Incidentally, the Meander brand always has beautiful items that match the nostalgic feel of Vintage Atelier. Because I can buy flexibly at TICA, I manage to renew my range regularly. This allows me to continuously surprise and inspire my customers.

What do you pay attention to during your buying days at TICA?

Of course I make sure that the items fit my shop concept. The price-quality is important and in addition, I also definitely pay attention to the material of the products. For example, I don’t really like plastic and other synthetic materials. When I see unique products – which are not later “copied” at the big retail chains – they are more likely to go into my shopping basket. Lastly, I value (visible) craftsmanship; products with a story.

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Do you take seasons and holidays into account?

Sure! Take Valentine’s Day as an example. I then succeed at TICA for small gifts, accessories or greeting cards with love as the theme. I also buy many items by colour for specific holidays. For example, in the colour yellow for Easter. So that those items collectively then form an Easter collection.

To read more about Valentine’s Day must haves, gifts and wrapping items, read 6 must haves for Valentine’s Day.