The Business of Antiques

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 trus...

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...

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, th...

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, re...

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...

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 invent...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

In this episode of the Business of Antiques, Toma welcomes the owner of Collect for the Home, Deke Rogers, to talk about how passion and profitability can work in the world of antiques.

Both Toma and Deke are strong proponents if you are not making money in your antiques business it is just a hobby then. The talk then turns to strategies necessary to recession-proof your business including developing targeted marketing plans and brand elevation to attract discerning clientele. Rogers also shares valuable insights from his own journey, detailing the evolution of his business from a personal...

In this episode of the Business of Antiques, Chelsea On Green’s Showroom Manager, Rejeana, joins Toma to talk about the intricate dynamics of transforming a passion for antiques into a lucrative enterprise.

Both Rejeana and Toma underscore the importance that without profit it is essentially a hobby. The chat delves into essential strategies for recession-proofing an antiques business including the cultivation or great marketing plans and elevating the brand identity to captivate the modern consumer.

This episode also touches on the significance of effective sourcing practices, emphasizing the point that financial success is achieved at...

 In this episode of the Business of Antiques, Stacey Tiveron, CEO of Ronati joins us to talk about the intersection between technology and the antiques industry.

The episode emphasizes that in an era characterized by rapid technological advancement, it is imperative for antique dealers to adapt and modernize their practices in order to remain competitive and profitable. Stacey talks about the  challenges faced by dealers, particularly with respect to administrative processes that hinder their ability to market and sell their products effectively. By providing innovative solutions designed to streamline inventory management and enhance marketing strategies, Ronati empowers de...

In this episode of the Business of Antiques, Gail McLeod jumps on the podcast with Toma to introduce a dear friend and star in the British antiques trade, Ingrid Neilson. Ingrid is the owner of the Antiques Dealers Fair Limited and shares her history with antiques.

During the episode the three experts discuss the evolution of antique dealing, emphasizing how the landscape has shifted to accommodate modern buyer preferences. Toma states a foundational principle that resonates throughout the episode: the adage that 'you make your money when you buy, not when you sell.' This principle serves...

In this episode of the Business of Antiques, Toma Clark Haines, CEO of The Antiques Diva & Co and guest Amanda Kinney, of the High Point Antique & Design Center, talk about what goes on during High Point Market and what happens in between markets..

During the episode Amanda shares her journey within the antiques industry, her evolution from childhood fascination with antiques to her current role at the helm of a bustling antique center. 

Toma and Amanda emphasize the importance of maintaining a curated inventory that aligns with contemporary interior design trends. They also talk about h...

In this episode of the Business of Antiques, Toma Clark Haines, CEO of The Antiques Diva & Co and guest Sarah Percy-Davis talk about the contemporary antiques industry, elucidating the intricate dynamics that govern the intersection of passion and profitability.

The episode also offers valuable insights of Toma’s mission to transform the perception of antiques from mere collectibles into modern, desirable commodities backed by Sarah's rich background in art consultancy and auction houses.

The conversation dives into practical strategies for recession-proofing an antiques business, underscoring the importance of adaptability and innovation in a fluctuating economic la...

In this episode of the Business of Antiques, Toma Clark Haines and celebrity guest Mark Hill - of BBC’s Antiques Roadshow- talk about Mark's recent endeavour in setting up his own auction house as a testament to his commitment to modernizing the antiques industry.

The episode also offers valuable insights for those in the antiques profession but also sheds light on the evolving narratives surrounding antiques, their acquisition, and their significance in today’s market.

The conversation dives into clarifying the necessity of turning one’s passion for antiques into a profitable venture instead of it...

In this episode of the Business of Antiques, Toma Clark Haines and guest Jo Roberts talk about Jo’s transformative journey from artist to successful antique dealer.

The episode also shares invaluable insights on the significance of passion, self-awareness, and strategic networking within the realm of antiques. The conversation dives into the nuances of establishing a profitable antiques business, emphasizing that success is predicated upon understanding one's market and nurturing relationships with fellow dealers and clients alike. 

Jo also reflects upon the importance of embracing imperfections in antiques, paralleling her own journey of self-acceptance and gro...

In this episode of the Business of Antiques, Toma Clark Haines and guest Andrea Hysmith talk about the many dimensions of the antiques business addressing the critical necessity of transforming a passion for antiques into a lucrative enterprise.

The episode also extends to the significance of marketing and branding, presenting a clear narrative that the contemporary antique dealer must adapt to the evolving tastes and preferences of today's consumers. Furthermore, Toman and Andrea provide actionable sourcing tips that reflect their extensive experience within the industry, equipping you with essential tools to navigate the complexities of the antiques...

In this episode of the Business of Antiques, host Toma Clark Haines dives deep into what happens during the Antique Dealer Training Program, scheduled for June 22 to June 27, 2025, in the picturesque English countryside.

This immersive workshop is designed to rejuvenate antique dealers, whether they are newcomers or seasoned professionals struggling to achieve their desired profit margins. Toma highlights the transformative potential of this program, which promises not only to impart essential business acumen but also to rekindle participants’ passion for their craft. We will explore the mechanics of social media, learning how to create engaging content that ef...

In this episode of the Business of Antiques, host Toma Clark Haines welcomes Brian Gallop, a Global Brand Ambassador for Graff Faucets.

He talks about his role in educating architects and designers on the significance of selecting high-quality, aesthetically pleasing fixtures that can serve as heirloom pieces, akin to antiques. His insights reveal that the bathroom and kitchen, often considered mere utilitarian spaces, can be elevated to artistic realms through the careful selection of fixtures. Gallup also shares his experiences with ASID (American Society of Interior Designers), highlighting how membership in such organizations can foster networking and...

In this episode of the Business of Antiques, host Toma Clark Haines welcomes publicist Alice Roberton, a wearer of many hats related to the antiques business but mainly a magazine writer that covers everything from antiques to home tours.

Together, they discuss the various roles one can occupy within the antiques business, emphasizing that being an antiques dealer is not the only pathway to success. Alice, articulates her multifaceted involvement in the antiques industry as a stylist and writer, which serves as an example of how one can carve out a distinctive niche. This perspective challenges conventional notio...

In this episode of the Business of Antiques, host Toma Clark Haines welcomes the incredible Leslie Carothers, a pioneer in the field of digital marketing for the home furnishings sector. Together, they explore Leslie's journey from a successful investment banker to a leading figure in social media and marketing strategies for interior designers and brands. Discover how Leslie has consistently reinvented herself, the importance of niche marketing, and the innovative ways to leverage social media in the antiques business.

Tune in for invaluable insights on making your passion for antiques profitable!

Connect with Leslie on...

As we kick off Season 5 of The Business of Antiques, Toma Clark Haines chats with Gail Mcleod, VP of AD&CO and owner of Antique News & Fairs, as they dive into the details of the upcoming Antiques Diva Educational Retreat in England (UPDATE MARCH DATES SOLD OUT: NEXT DATES JUNE 1- 6, 2025)

This engaging conversation covers the importance of community in the antiques business and explains how the antique dealer training program retreat will provide invaluable learning experiences. From expert guest speakers to hands-on workshops, listeners will discover what to expect from this unique gathering set against the...

To close out season 4 of The Business of Antiques, CEO of The Antiques Diva & Co Toma Clark Haines takes listeners on the road with her. Have you ever wondered what it would be like to be a fly on the wall on one of Toma´s antique buying tours? Well, that is exactly the experience you get in this episode - Guerilla Podcasting in Parma at Mercanteinfiera.  

“Guerrilla Marketing” is an advertising approach that uses guerrilla warfare tactics, or the element of surprise, to attract target audiences. This form of marketing is especially effective for driving publicity, in which a...

In today’s episode, Toma Clark Haines, CEO of The Antiques Diva & Co – the World´s Largest Antiques Touring Company – tells you how to shop for antiques at the Paris Flea Market and how to ship antiques from France.  

The first time Toma and her locally-based Paris team met with Jean-Cyrille Boutmy, owner of Marche Paul-Bert Serpette, he said, “The Antiques Diva & Co are Ambassadors. You make a bridge between the American buyers and the French vendors helping both sides do business.” The Antiques Diva & Co translates, negotiates, and liaises buyers with international shippers. As the Paris flea market h...

In today's episode, Toma Clark Haines, CEO of The Antiques Diva & Co and founder of The Republic of Toma, speaks with a mother-daughter team based out of Florida: Kelly and Blair McGee of Three Graces Antiques. With a legacy of antiques collecting and sourcing spanning three generations, their passion for the trade has become an inseparable part of their lives. They offer a range of unique pieces, meticulously curated over the decades, and today's episode is the epitome of what generations of antiques collecting and selling looks like. 

Kelly's parents moved to London when Kelly was in h...

In this episode of The Business of Antiques Podcast, Toma Clark Haines, Founder and CEO of The Antiques Diva & Co and The Republic of Toma, sits down with industry legend, Veronika Miller. Veronika's influence, guidance, and friendship have been instrumental in Toma's career. Toma describes her best as a trailblazer, fearlessly creating paths for others to follow both in the industries of marketing and design. Toma and Veronika have both learned that being ahead of the pack can be scary but worth it. Veronika shares, "I believe firmly that life is lived best on the precipice between the safe...

In this episode of the Business of Antiques Podcast, your host Toma Clark Haines, CEO of The Antiques Diva & Co, talks about how to Become the CEO of Your Life, not just your Antiques Business. She shares with you tools she personally uses to manage her time, her business, her clients, her energy levels, and how she keeps her eye focused on her goals. 

There are 3 questions she is repeatedly asked:

“Yes, I have clones,” she says. “My employees help me achieve...

In today's episode, join Toma Clark Haines, Founder and CEO of The Antiques Diva and Co and The Republic of Toma, on a warm cozy climb into the head of long-time antiques dealer, Kim Hites. Kim sells at the Thoroughbred Gallery in Lexington, Kentucky. Although Kim has been travelling to and shopping in France and importing shipping containers of antiques since 2012, her career as an antiques dealer specializing in continental furnishings actually goes back thirty five plus years to when she was in college and working on her interior design degree. It was then that she completely fell in lov...

In this episode of The Business of Antiques CEO Toma Clark Haines explains what you learn in the Business of Antiques- Antique Dealer Training Program. She also offers one on one business coaching for antique dealers wanting to elevate their antiques businesses.

BOA-ADTP is the gold-standard antique dealer training program for new (or nearly new) antique dealers who want to build a meaningful, profitable business for the way they want to live their lives. Being an Antiques Dealer is not a one-size fit all career. There are a lot of ways to sell antiques. The secret to a...

In this episode of the Business of Antiques Toma Clark Haines - CEO of The Antiques Diva & Co does not have a guest. She just talks to you one on one from her home in Venice, Italy over a cup of morning coffee. Recently her podcast producer Jason Perrier suggested she tell her story. And in this episode - that´s exactly what she does. 

She starts by saying, ¨I´m Toma. I am the founder and CEO of The Antiques Diva & Co. I am a creative who has learned through trial and error how to get s#t...

In this episode, Toma Clark Haines founder and CEO of The Antiques Diva & Co, talks with nationally renowned event-planning expert, celebrity party-planner, designer, author, and founder of A Perfect Event, "a special event company with a faithful following, including Oprah Winfrey, Brooke Shields, Debra Messing, and Leo Burnett” – Debi Lilly.

Debi Lilly has it in her blood to celebrate! She has been crafting celebrations and making the world more beautiful since she was very very little – learning at her mother and grandmother's knees. Throwing parties is part of her DNA makeup. "I just love love love celebrating. That's...

In today's episode, Toma Clark Haines, CEO of The Antiques Diva & Co and founder of The Republic of Toma, talks with Katie Treggiden – author, journalist, podcaster, keynote speaker, and the founder and director of Making Design Circular, a membership community and online learning platform for designers, makers, craftspeople, and artists who want to become more sustainable. This episode is a journey from Katie’s idyllic childhood growing up in Cornwall, surrounded by beaches, moors, and the countryside, going fishing after school on sunny afternoons and having barbecues on the beach for tea to the bright lights of university and then...

In today’s episode, Toma Clark Haines – CEO of The Antiques Diva & Co and founder of The Republic of Toma ­­– speaks with a legend in the industry, John Hansord of Hansord Antiques. John runs his family business located in Lincolnshire and has his showrooms in a gorgeous farmhouse that dates from 1693. John is on the vetting committees for some of the leading antique fairs in the UK. In addition to selling to interior designers all over the world, he’s a member of BOTA, which is the British Antique Dealers Association as well as LAPADA. He has also sold to a varie...

In today's episode, Toma Clark Haines, CEO of The Antiques Diva & Co and founder of The Republic of Toma talks shop with public relations consultant, Tiffany Farney, owner of Digital Thread Consulting, a boutique public relations firm specializing in the art and design industry. Tiffany's company takes a unique approach in that they specifically focus on serving mission-based clients. This does not mean exclusively non-profits but businesses that have core values, core ideas, and a vision for their company. Tiffany is preaching to the choir as this is one of the basic tenets Toma shares with her antique dealer...

In this episode of The Business of Antiques, Toma Clark Haines, CEO of The Antiques Diva & Co and founder of The Republic of Toma, visits with Simon de Harlez of Deulin Antiques. Simon is a Belgium antiques dealer who runs his store from his family’s 18th century castle, the Château de Deulin. Even after all of Toma’s travels, Deulin remains one of her favorite chateaux to this day. 

Simon is a dealer she has personally bought from, someone she considers a friend, and who she honestly considers a role model for antiques dealers entering this i...

In this episode, Toma Clark Haines, CEO of The Antiques Diva & Co, sits down in her home in Venice with long-time friend Robert Schreuder. Robert is a Dutch dealer who began as a lawyer, but after 6 years working at a law firm thought, “Well, this is not all there is in life.” After studies in Leiden, Bordeaux and Bologna, alongside his legal work, Robert threw himself into building an antiques business from scratch. He has created an extraordinary collection specializing in the Grand Tour and Empire period. Toma and Robert discuss the Grand Tour and the antiques that come from...