Antiques and Collectibles Auction: Set Up Before the Sale

As written in my last blog, we have been enjoying Julie’s Auctions for many, many years. When we asked her if we could take a look behind the scenes, she most graciously accepted and invited us to see what went on before the first paddle was raised!

Sunday afternoon we went to Clifford’s Restaurant in Hales Corners, Wisconsin. It was early afternoon but the back hall was already bustling! Julie was there and greeted us and told us to take whatever pictures we wanted. She also suggested that we speak with all of her staff. They were just beginning the process and the tables were in disarray, being put into place at her direction.

Crates and boxes were overflowing and we saw furniture and treasures being brought into the hall. We’d been to a lot of auctions through the years but never really stopped to consider how much work it was to prepare! Her team of 11 people started at 1:30 and expected to be there past 7:00! It seemed almost eerie to see all the empty chairs!

The first person we talked with was her head cashier, Barb. She’s been working for Julie for over 20 years. It is a true ‘family affair’, since Barb is married to the auctioneer, Dan. They have three lovely daughters and they have all grown up in the business. Dan told us their oldest was in diapers when they started working with Julie! We remember when they’d sit at a back table, coloring or drawing, and now participate by holding up the items for presentation to the bidders. Dan said that the girls have learned to appreciate the antique market this way and have found items at yard sales or thrift shops and brought them in to sell. They have been able to profit from their experience and at a very early age!

We gave the crew some space and came back a few hours later. Boy, what a change! The tables were now neatly arranged and filled with items of interest. This looks like it will be a good one!

At the “jewelry table” we found three ladies, helping to put the ’sparklies’ into cases according to lot number and description. Sharlene has been with Julie the longest, well over 10 years! She helps to load up the truck, unload and also is involved with the set up. In addition, she will do some presenting at the sale tomorrow.

Elaine has been there 5 years and helps with set-up and check-in of bidders during the auction. The third was “the other Julie”, who has been working there for about 3 years. “The other Julie” has been collecting jewelry for over 15 years and was very knowledgeable.

We asked if they determined such things as ‘gold content’, or identified unmarked pieces. They said that the owner, Julie, had several sources for that process. They assured us that Julie wants to get the most for her consignors and also give a comfort level to bidders that they are purchasing items ‘as stated.’ They had very kind things to say about Julie, as an employer and praised her for her honesty and integrity. You can tell they have a high level of respect for her!

Since they have such a large variety, Julie draws from her own knowledge as well as ’seasoned experts.’ One of her staff is very knowledgeable in militaria, another has furniture as his area of expertise. Mark, another long-time employee, has toys as his specialty.

We stopped another member of her staff, Charlie, who was setting up furniture. When asked how long he’d been working there, he stated “14 years!” Being very young looking, we had to ask if he’d been recruited out of 8^th grade. He laughed and said his mother was Sharlene, and she’d known Julie for a long time.

When he was old enough, Julie asked if he wanted to work for her. His response was positive and he’s been there ever since. He helps with loading and unloading, not just at the time of the auction, but often when a consignor wants items picked up, or Julie needs help moving things in her warehouse. He, as all the staff, truly seemed to be enjoying it!

We asked Julie what percentage was consignment vs. her ‘private stock.’ She said it is probably 85-90% consignment. Julie just recently added a modest 5% buyers fee. Many other auction houses are charging 10-12%. She is proud that there is no minimum and no reserves!

So, Monday will be the big day. We’ll head over to watch the auction, and maybe raise a paddle as well! This sneak preview convinced us there will be some super items. Can’t wait to see what this large, Steiff dog on wheels will bring. They even had it bark for us when you pull the ring! And what about this adorable papier mache’ rabbit with the ears that are on springs! Bet hubby will be ‘hopping mad’ if over-bid on this one! Be sure to check back on Friday for the results of the auction and find out if my marriage can survive my raised paddle.