Today we’d like to introduce you to Nastassia Cordeiro.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I’m a visual person and have always had an eye for style and anticipating trends. I knew before going to college that I would not have a traditional career. I attended University at UC Berkeley where I studied Political Science and Portuguese. At the time, I was interested in vintage clothing and wanted to start designing and collecting for my own online store.
Upon graduating, the recession hit and I took any type of fashion-related job I could get: internships, retail, and e-commerce. While interning at a clothing showroom, I met a friend who was working for a designer who restores historically significant Mid-Century Modernist homes. The company was looking to hire another assistant. I had never worked in the home space before, but I was drawn to the vintage aspect of the job.
I worked there for about five years where I mainly sourced Mid-Century Modern furniture and decor. It was a valuable and enjoyable experience where I learned a lot about Mid-Century Modern concepts and worked with influential people in Entertainment and Design.
While working there another friend of mine approached me about going into business selling vintage furniture online. I had some money saved, and business was picking up, so I left my assistant job to sell vintage furniture full time. A year into it we opened a brick and mortar establishment but in the end, set out on our own personal endeavors. Today, I have a vintage furniture business called Out of Stok Vintage.
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?
It has not been a smooth road, but it’s definitely been worth it. I get to do one of the things I love which is to source and rehome vintage furniture. However, entrepreneurship has not been without its challenges. I’ve lost friends and partnerships, have had to start my business all over and sometimes work with no days off. I’ve learned over time that challenges are just opportunities for learning and restructuring. If something doesn’t work, it’s time to move on and try something else. In many ways, challenges are just blessings in disguise.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Out of Stok Vintage – what should we know?
We sell affordable vintage furniture from the 1950’s to the 1990’s. Our pieces are straightforward and functional, without fuss or frill. We are conscious of current design trends while still remaining timeless.
We’re different from most vintage furniture “dealers” because we’re not strictly Mid-Century Modern. I like the idea of mixing and matching different styles while still maintaining restraint. It’s okay to mix a 60s Modern credenza with a 70s sling chair and an 80s sofa, for example. I like walnut, teak, and leather but I also like chrome, brass, and velvet. It’s about seeking the right balance between all the materials. A good piece is just a good piece; it’s about how you put everything together.
I also love the historic and sustainable aspects of what I do. There are so many toxic-trash-furniture pieces out there that will not last the test of time. Vintage furniture is built to last and has a unique story to tell. Sometimes I’ll find old photos and letters lodged in between drawers and my inner history nerd totally geeks out.
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
Being successful takes consistency, perseverance and having faith in your vision. However, balance is definitely the key to sustaining success.
I find that the more spiritually and physically aligned I am the more prepared I am for whatever is thrown my way.
Since starting my business, I’ve simplified and restructured my life so that I’m not hindered by too many distractions; I only buy what I need, exercise, meditate and take “me” time. I do slip up and ignore these things sometimes, but I always return to them.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.outofstokvintage.com
- Email: outofstokvintage@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_os_vintage/
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