Discover vintage decorating inspiration, thrifting tips, and antique adventures. Explore cozy New England living with Dabbling & Decorating.

Welcome! I’m so glad you’re here.

Whether you found your way here through a love of cozy homes, a weekend spent treasure-hunting, or a simple admiration for all things vintage and beautiful — you’re in the right place.

At Dabbling & Decorating, I share a little bit of everything I love: decorating with vintage finds, exploring New England’s most charming antique shops, and crafting a home story filled with character, warmth, and a good old-fashioned sense of nostalgia.

Maybe you’re dreaming of creating a home layered with meaningful pieces.

Maybe you love the thrill of a good thrift find.

Maybe you’re planning your next antiquing road trip.

Or maybe you’re just here to linger a while among vintage treasures and old New England charm.

Wherever you’re starting from, I’m so happy to welcome you in.

Start Here for Vintage Decorating Inspiration, Thrifting Tips, and Antique Finds

Here’s a simple way to begin your journey:

Best Thrifting Tips for Vintage and Antique Home Finds

Ready to discover the art of thrifting? Whether you’re a seasoned treasure hunter or new to the thrill of secondhand finds, these tips will help you shop smart, style beautifully, and find pieces that tell your story. Here’s where to begin:

Every thrifted find has the potential to tell a story — and once you bring those treasures home, the real magic begins.

Country Sampler Magazine Maine Home Feature

Our Home, Featured in Country Sampler Magazine

In 2025, our coastal Maine home was featured in Country Sampler Magazine—a true dream come true! It was an unforgettable experience, and I’ve shared all the behind-the-scenes moments, vintage styling, and emotional details in this special post.

Next, let’s explore some of my favorite vintage decorating ideas for creating a cozy, character-filled home.

Vintage Decorating Ideas for a Cozy, Character-Filled Home

Decorating with vintage finds is one of my favorite ways to create a home filled with warmth, charm, and personal history. Whether you’re styling a thrifted table setting, refreshing a cozy corner, or adding antique touches to everyday spaces, these ideas will help you bring timeless character into your home. Let’s explore some favorite vintage decorating inspirations!

However you choose to style your home, I hope these vintage decorating ideas inspire you to create a space that feels beautifully personal, welcoming, and full of timeless charm.

Shirley Coupe Couser and Boozer the Bassett Hound in Blue convertible in the 1950s at the Nubble in York, Maine.

Coastal Maine Heritage – Embracing My Roots

Discover the story behind our family’s deep connection to coastal Maine—beginning with my grandparents, who ran Coupe’s Gift Shop and Lobster Pound just down the road from the home they later built. This post, featuring a 1950s photo of my mother and her Bassett hound Boozer at the Nubble Lighthouse, is the heart behind why I decorate the way I do today and now drive my own vintage 1968 VW Fastback named Shirley.

DIY Vintage Projects to Add Charm and Character to Your Home

Sometimes the best vintage finds are the ones you create yourself. From repurposing old treasures to simple DIY projects that bring a timeless charm to your home, these ideas are all about adding a personal and creative touch. Here are a few favorite DIY vintage projects to inspire your next decorating adventure!

As much as I love creating cozy vintage touches at home, there’s nothing quite like hitting the road in search of new treasures. Let’s take a few favorite antiquing adventures together next!

Vintage Antiquing Road Trips Through New England and Beyond

There’s nothing quite like the thrill of a vintage road trip — discovering hidden shops, local treasures, and charming small towns along the way. Over the years, I’ve mapped out some of my favorite antiquing adventures across New England and beyond. Whether you’re planning a full road trip or just dreaming up your next afternoon outing, these vintage shopping trails are filled with character, inspiration, and a little bit of magic.

Along the way, it’s often the unexpected treasures that become the most loved pieces at home. Next, let’s take a peek at some of my very favorite vintage finds and the stories behind them. You may find even more antiquing adventures on our Vintage and Thrift Shopping Adventures Across New England page.

Vintage Booth Winter Window Display

Recommended Reading

Ever think about opening your own vintage or antique booth? I’ve got you covered in this How to Start a Vintage Booth: Tips, Display Ideas, and Lessons Learned post.

Favorite Vintage Finds That Bring Timeless Charm Home

Over the years, some vintage pieces have found their way into my home — and my heart — becoming true treasures. From well-worn crocks to delicate blue-and-white china, each find brings a little more warmth, character, and story to everyday life. Here are a few of my favorite vintage pieces and the memories they carry with them from our Thrifting with the Gals blog series.

Vintage-Inspired Table Setting Ideas

From cozy porch brunches to festive seasonal tablescapes, this post is a go-to guide for styling vintage table settings all year long. Get inspired by my favorite antique finds, thrifted treasures, and timeless layering tips to create tables you’ll love.

Vintage decor ideas with purple spring lilacs in white ironstone pitcher in bathroom Vintage Decor Ideas

Letting Go of Vintage: How to Downsize and Rehome Your Beloved Decor

Learn how to downsize and rehome vintage decor with care. This heartfelt guide shares tips for letting go of beloved pieces while honoring their stories. Whether you’re retiring, downsizing, or simply ready to declutter with intention, this guide is here to help you pass on your beloved vintage decor with purpose.

Whether you’re decorating with vintage charm, thrifting your next favorite piece, or hitting the road for a treasure-filled adventure, I hope Dabbling & Decorating becomes a cozy corner of inspiration for you. I’m so grateful you’re here — and I can’t wait to share even more vintage decorating ideas, antiquing adventures, and meaningful finds with you along the way. Happy thrifting!

Your Guide to Embracing Eclectic Style, Vintage Finds, and Thrifted Home Inspiration~

Love decorating with vintage finds, thrifted treasures, and eclectic charm? I’d love to hear from you! Leave a comment below, share this post with a vintage-loving friend, or join our Reader’s Showcase Series — where we feature your favorite thrifted and antique finds. Email me at [email protected] to be part of it!

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