The Business of Antiques

In this season 6 premiere, Toma Clark Haines returns from a two-month sabbatical spanning Oklahoma and Vietnam to discuss the critical connection between nervous system health and business profitability.After ending 2025 early and choosing to start 2026 with the Chinese New Year, Toma reveals why antique dealers aren't struggling due to lack of discipline or clarity—they're struggling because they're burned out.She introduces a powerful five-section self-audit covering inventory velocity, pricing structure, buyer alignment, decision cadence, and nervous system regulation, designed to help dealers build steadier revenue streams.Toma also announces new offerings including quarterly business check-ins, a training bundle combining 40 instructional videos with 20 hours of personalized coaching, and wellness retreat opportunities at her home in Chianti.This episode is a call to action for antique dealers to stop white-knuckling their way through their antiques business and instead create systems that support both profitability and well-being.Check out the links from our episode.Toma: Instagram | antiquesdiva.com | Substack | @ [email protected]

In this episode of The Business of Antiques, Toma, CEO of The Antiques Diva & Co, sits down with interior designer, blogger, and pioneering podcaster Linda Merrill, the force behind the influential design podcast The Skirted Roundtable. From her early days blogging as “Surroundings” to becoming a trusted voice in the interior design community, Linda shares how a simple desire for self-promotion evolved into a masterclass platform for designers around the world. She and Toma talk candidly about naming your business, how a brand can grow beyond what you ever intended, and why showing your face builds the kind of trust clients—and listeners—actually buy.Together they dig into the realities of creative entrepreneurship: imposter syndrome, the pressure to be perfect, the challenge of monetizing passion projects, and the importance of knowing when “done is better than perfect.” Linda reveals behind-the-scenes stories from The Skirted Roundtable days, including interviewing top designers, obsessing over sound quality with limited tech, and why authenticity always beats slick production. Whether you’re an antique dealer, interior designer, or creative business owner, this episode is a rich, evergreen lesson in building a brand, serving your community, and giving yourself permission to just start.Check out the links from our episode.Toma: Instagram | antiquesdiva.com | Substack

In this episode of The Business of Antiques, host Toma Clark Haines, CEO of The Antiques Diva & Co, sits down with luxury marketing expert Dawn Moore of Moore About to tackle the question every antique dealer and interior designer is asking: How do I market my business when I have no time and no budget? Dawn draws on 40+ years of experience with high-luxury brands like Harry Winston, Mikimoto, and Chopard to translate “big brand” strategies into practical, doable steps for small luxury businesses. From why your photography has to be “antique porn,” to how your website and blog feed your SEO, to the surprising truth that email newsletters still convert better than social media, Dawn and Toma walk you through what to prioritize first when every marketing dollar counts.They also dive into storytelling, point of view, and crisis management—including how dealers pivoted during COVID and what that means for selling antiques in today’s uncertain market. Toma shares honestly about authenticity, vulnerability, and her own struggles with consistency, while Dawn explains why done is better than perfect and why your clients now need up to 20 touchpoints before they buy. As they look ahead to 2026, the pair talk about AI as a tool (not a threat), the power of real-life experiences and experiential marketing.Toma and Dawn want to offer you as a listener a complimentary one-hour joint consultation to help you finally get your marketing working for you in the new year. Email Toma or Dawn to find out more.Check out the links from our episode.Dawn: Instagram | mooreabout.comToma: Instagram | antiquesdiva.com | Substack

In this episode of The Business of Antiques, Toma Clark Haines, CEO of The Antiques Diva & Co, continues her conversation with long-time friend and industry insider Derrick Ricketts, diving deep into what really works in antique retail, merchandising, and sales. Drawing on decades of experience in showrooms, design centers, and hospitality, Derrick shares practical advice on building a concept store, creating the right mix of antiques and new products, and using layered merchandising so customers can actually see your pieces in their own homes. From Gustavian chairs in Sweden to color stories inspired by Aidan Gray’s iconic orange, this episode is packed with real-world examples that antique dealers and interior designers can apply immediately.Toma and Derrick also tackle the realities of social media fatigue, event marketing, and how to stand out in a saturated feed without spending a fortune. They discuss why resetting your floor regularly matters, how to guide traffic through your shop, why corners are often missed opportunities, and how to use customer service and authenticity as your ultimate competitive edge. Along the way, listeners get stories from Round Top, the Paris flea market, Bali, and Chiang Mai, plus smart ideas for non-discount promotions, gratitude marketing, and even using pets as part of your brand. If you own an antique store, have a booth, or dream of opening a shop, this episode is a masterclass in making your store more profitable, memorable, and inspiring.Check out the links from our episode.Derrick: InstagramToma: Instagram | antiquesdiva.com | Substack

In this episode of The Business of Antiques, Toma, CEO of The Antiques Diva & Co, shares a behind-the-scenes conversation with one of the interior design industry’s true unsung heroes: Derek Ricketts, Director of Sales, Hospitality at Palecek. From their chance meeting at High Point Market to an impulsive trip to Buenos Aires that involved polo ponies, countesses, and Austrian-steel fortunes, Derek and Toma unpack how curiosity, courage, and relationships can completely reshape a career in design. Along the way, Derek traces his unlikely path from radio and Shakespeare festivals to national sales roles, luxury linens, and hospitality design, revealing what he’s learned about sales, merchandising, and owning your value in the trade.They also dig into the realities behind the “jet-set” life that shows up on Instagram—points hacking, hotel loyalty, and doing it all on a shoestring budget—versus the polished perception people see online. Derek shares the inside story of how he brought Diane Keaton and The House That Pinterest Built to the Dallas Market Center, and the powerful lesson in doing your homework before pitching a big idea. If you’re an antique dealer, interior designer, or home furnishings professional who craves more travel, bigger opportunities, and the confidence to take risks in your business, this conversation will make you laugh, think, and dream a little bigger.Check out the links from our episode.Derek: InstagramToma: Instagram | antiquesdiva.com | Substack

Host Toma Clark Haines, CEO of The Antiques Diva & Co, sits down with interior design legend Mitzi Beach to unpack Life-Sizing—Mitzi’s niche approach to designing purposeful, wellness-driven homes for clients 50, 60, and 70+. Drawing on thirty-five years serving high-end clientele, Mitzi reveals the “forgotten middle” of the market and why cookie-cutter plans fail this 87-million-strong demographic. She shares the curbless-shower story that sparked her mission to move design beyond “pretty” into safe, ergonomic, future-ready spaces—and how small choices prevent big setbacks.You’ll hear how universal design and aging-in-place can be beautiful, why multi-purpose pieces (hello, secretaries and desks) support real life, and how antiques add meaning, story, and calm to wellness-focused interiors. Mitzi also previews her new Housing Change Warriors certification for designers and realtors—bridging the gap between selling homes and creating spaces that truly fit how people live now. Plus, smart time-management habits for creatives, the power of CEU-level education, and using social media to build authority by “showing up” with value.Whether you’re an antique dealer, designer, or realtor, this episode shows how to sell—and design—for needs, narratives, and longevity.Check out the links from our episode.Mitzi: mitzibeach.comToma, CEO of The Antiques Diva & Co: Instagram | antiquesdiva.com | Substack

In this episode of The Business of Antiques, host Toma Clark Haines is joined by Tara Connaghan, Donegal fiddle player, tour guide, and podcast host of In Tune With Tradition, who shares her journey from construction to auctions, from antique rings and fur coats to violins (including Collin-Mezin and that unforgettable Lupo). Together they explore overcoming imposter syndrome, choosing your niche, playing the long game in dealer relationships, and why etiquette—whether in Irish music sessions or the trade—matters. You’ll hear practical tips on buying at auction, building trust with hotels and local partners, and matching unique inventory to the right buyer.Toma also pulls back the curtain on how dealers really buy—before items ever hit a fair or a feed. Toma announces the launch of her Private Buyers Club on Substack, giving paid members access to never-before-seen European inventory sourced through back barns, dealer networks, and private WhatsApp groups—commission-free and perfect for topping off a container. Plus, Toma’s latest Substack posts on fast movers and selling in a slower market. Whether you’re an antique dealer, interior designer, or design enthusiast, this episode is a masterclass in merging authenticity with business strategy. Discover how timeless craftsmanship, storytelling, and a few well-chosen antiques can transform both a space-and a career.Check out the links from our episode.Tara: sessionetiquette.comToma: Instagram | antiquesdiva.com | Substack

In this episode host Toma Clark Haines CEO of The Antiques Diva & Co sits down with internationally published Canadian interior designer Jonathan Legate for an intimate conversation about design, business, and the emotional energy of antiques. From his seaside home in Nova Scotia to luxury projects around the world, Jonathan shares how antiques infuse his interiors with warmth, history, and soul.Together, Toma and Jonathan explore lessons from decades in the design trade- why some pieces sell instantly while others stagnate, the value of editing your inventory, and how transparency and communication build long-term client trust. Jonathan also opens up about managing creativity, mental health, and work-life balance as an entrepreneur in a fast-changing world.Whether you’re an antique dealer, interior designer, or design enthusiast, this episode is a masterclass in merging authenticity with business strategy. Discover how timeless craftsmanship, storytelling, and a few well-chosen antiques can transform both a space-and a career.Check out the links from our episode.Jonathan: Chestnut Cottage Chester | @JonathanLegate | LinktreeToma: Instagram |  antiquesdiva.com

In this episode of The Business of Antiques, Toma Clark Haines, CEO of The Antiques Diva & Co welcomes Mark Lukas, Owner of Maison Palm Beach, to talk about the dynamics of the antique world and the need for dealers to adapt to evolving consumer preferences.Mark shares his journey from the fashion industry to the establishment of his gallery, Maison Palm Beach and the transformative question he posed to himself during his relocation to Florida: "As a creative, who am I now?". This question led to a profound exploration of his passions, culminating in his newfound dedication to large sculptures.Toma and Mark discuss the importance of curiosity, self-discovery, and the value of embracing change in both personal and professional endeavors. Mark emphasizes the significance of creating an antiques business that reflects one's values and lifestyle, advocating for authenticity and collaboration as essential components of success in the antiques industry.Tune in for insights that transcend baking and antiques, offering practical inspiration for anyone ready to turn their passion into a sustainable, impactful business.Connect with Mark on Instagram and stay tuned for the launch of maisonpalmbeach.com in the near future.Connect with Toma on Instagram and at antiquesdiva.com.

In this inspiring episode of The Business of Antiques, host Toma Clark Haines, CEO of The Antiques Diva & Co sits down with Linda Holt, professional photographer turned interior designer and founder of Linda Holt Creative. Together, they explore the power of authenticity in business, Linda’s journey of reinvention from a 25-year photography career to teaching smartphone photography, and actionable tips antique dealers and designers can use to elevate their product photography.Linda shares insider strategies for photographing antiques getting the perfect hero shots, vignette styling, and social-media-worthy images — even in tricky lighting conditions. You’ll learn how to photograph mirrors without catching your reflection, the importance of consistency in your Instagram feed, and which apps and tools will make your photos look polished and professional.Whether you’re an antique dealer, designer, or creative entrepreneur, this conversation is packed with practical advice and a dose of inspiration on embracing reinvention, curating your online presence, and finding the beauty in imperfection.Find out more about Linda at lindaholtcreative and connect on Instagram.Connect with Toma on Instagram and at antiquesdiva.com.

CEO of The Antiques Diva & Co, Toma Clark Haines sits down with vintage and fine jewelry curator–designer Naz Kretlow, founder of 3 Graces of Gold, for a luminous conversation about turning a lifelong obsession into a purpose-driven antiques business. From childhood treasure hunts and stamp collections to designing heirloom-quality gold bands, Naz shares how collecting became curation and then a calling. She opens up about leaving a 15-year corporate career, the financial and emotional prep behind that leap, and why community, craftsmanship, and joy are her non-negotiables. You’ll hear practical sourcing tips (from Miami to New York shows), how to work with bench jewelers, and why bold, wearable design beats “too precious” pieces that live in a drawer. If you’re an antiques dealer, designer, or collector, this episode is your reminder that when you follow the fun - and serve real needs - the work sustains itself. Plus: Toma’s mantra for building a business you love, and Naz’s mindset for building networks that last.Check out the links from our episode.Naz Kretlow: 3gracesofgold.com | InstagramToma: Instagram |  antiquesdiva.com

In this episode of The Business of Antiques, Toma welcomes Brian Hart Hoffman—President and Chief Creative Officer of Hoffman Media, and Editor-in-Chief of Bake from Scratch magazine—to talk about the intersection between creativity and entrepreneurship.Toma and Brian explore his remarkable journey from traveling the world as a flight attendant to leading a globally recognized baking brand. Influenced deeply by the legacy of his late mother, Brian shares how his early love for baking evolved into a thriving publishing career, with bestselling cookbooks, television appearances, and baking retreats around the world.They discuss the art of building a brand in today’s landscape—why authenticity matters, how embracing discomfort fuels growth and innovation, and the role of storytelling in connecting with your audience. The conversation also touches on the importance of fostering community through shared experiences, whether in the kitchen, at the table, or within the larger creative industry.Tune in for insights that transcend baking and antiques, offering practical inspiration for anyone ready to turn their passion into a sustainable, impactful business.Find out more about Brian at brianharthoffman.com and connect with him on Instagram @thebakefeed.Connect with Toma on Instagram and at antiquesdiva.com.

In this episode of the Business of Antiques, Toma welcomes the owner of Debbe Daley Designs, Debe Daley, to talk about the necessity for profitability and innovative marketing strategies in the contemporary marketplace.The conversation dives into the intricacies of recession-proofing one’s business and highlights the critical principle that profitability starts at the acquisition phase rather then at the point of sale. Debe shares insights gained from her illustrious career and personal encounters with antique dealers worldwide. Tune in for invaluable insights on making your passion for antiques profitable!Find out more about Debbe Daley at Debbe Daley Designs and connect on Instagram.Connect with Toma on Instagram and antiquesdiva.com.