Are Your Collections Taking Over Your House?

If you’re a collector (and I think most of us are in some way), you probably have at least a few boxes stashed in the attic, the basement, or tucked away in a closet. Maybe it’s vintage glassware you couldn’t pass up, holiday décor you’ve gathered over the years, or that stack of antique books you swear you’re going to display “someday.”

Here’s my little trick to actually enjoy your treasures — and maybe even move some of them along when the time is right.

Step One: Let Your Collection See the Light of Day

I believe if you collect it, you should display it and enjoy it.
Not all year (unless that’s your thing), but bring it out when you feel like it.

It can be seasonal, monthly, weekly… heck, daily if you’ve got the time and energy.

For me, I:

• Put out the pieces I really love.

• Rotate them when I get tired of looking at them.

• Sell them when I’m ready for someone else to enjoy them — which also makes space for my next great find.

Step Two: Think Beyond the Holidays

Seasonal doesn’t just mean Christmas or Halloween. It can be Fall, Summer, May, November — or whatever season speaks to you.

In our house, we rotate collections like this:

• Fall colors in September

• Bright florals in spring

• Coastal vibes in July

This keeps things fresh, and honestly… it makes you appreciate your pieces so much more.

Step Three: Style Your Displays with Purpose

When you’re setting up a display, think about grouping items by type, size, and scale so the arrangement feels balanced.

Here’s one of my go-to methods:

1. Start with a tray or some sort of base.

2. Place a small dish or bowl toward the front.

3. Add a taller piece like a vase, candlestick holder, or figurine toward the back.

4. Use a longer or chunkier item in the center to anchor the display.

5. Finish with a few small trinkets for detail — or keep it clean and let your statement pieces shine.

“A well-balanced display makes even the most ordinary collectibles feel like treasures.”

Step Four: Enjoy, Rotate, Release

Instead of hiding your collection in a box, find a way to enjoy it now.
When it’s time for a change:

• Rotate it out.

• Store it for later.

• Sell it to someone who will love it just as much as you did.

Collections should bring you joy — not dust.

So go ahead… unpack those boxes. Your treasures deserve a turn in the spotlight.

the spotlight.