Today we’d like to introduce you to Lori Tucci.
Lori, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I was brought up in the Antique business; my father was a Gemologist and antique appraiser and my mother was a trendsetting interior designer. I am a second generation antique dealer appraiser. I was born and raised in New York and followed my parents into many Hampton’s estates and museums.
I also owned and operated Retropia, a Mid-Century Modern design shop, and Gallery in Hollywood, selling everything from Eames chairs to antiques, as well as offering prop rentals to productions. I was buying most of my stock at estate sales and though my mix of talents was a perfect match for that business.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
My job is very hard work, it’s like having to move from your home three times a month, 12 months a year. I also have to deal with the grief and fears of my clients as well as the frantic stress of customers at 8 am. Many people think this business is an easy and a viable alternative to antique swap meets or stores. I have seen a surge in estate sale companies within the past 3 years, many startups who give up after a year or so when they realize how really hard this business is. It’s easier for me as I can swiftly appraise and price items, as I have about 40 years experience in resale and antiques. Most estate sale companies need to look up online and call in an outside appraiser to do what I can do very quickly. They can also often miss obscure items or get fooled by reproductions. I also have a well-trained staff who know what they need to do.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Estate Sale Angels – what should we know?
What sets me apart is that I am a good generalist, meaning that I know a little about everything and since I see and sell just about everything; that’s important. I also specialize in motion picture film and equipment. I worked for years as a film editor and in film restoration and archiving, this is a very obscure specialty that I can offer and since we are in Los Angeles, it is very helpful to those estates with film holdings.
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
Patience, sympathy, knowledge and honesty. I never forget that I am selling other people’s personal possessions, or that I am disassembling someone’s legacy.
Contact Info:
- Address: 10153 1/2 Riverside Drive, #552, Toluca Lake, Ca. 91602
- Website: www.estatesaleangels.com
- Phone: (310) 776-2888
- Email: [email protected]
- Facebook: Estate Sale Angels
- Twitter: Estate Sale Angels @ saleangels
- Yelp: Estate Sale Angels
Image Credit:
A. Lori Tucci
