Why Donaldson Vintage will always be about the stories

Last night I was at an event I helped organise for my day job, which went brilliantly. Months of planning, a huge number of moving parts and a room full of inspired people. 

But walking back to my car, I wasn’t patting myself on the back. Instead, I found myself thinking about the amazing artefacts I’d seen in The R&A World Golf Museum. The old gutta percha golf balls, amazing artwork and the compelling stories behind them all. 

I’ve been a copywriter for over twenty years. I’ve written for global brands, worked with talented people, and crafted words that have helped businesses and charities grow. I’m proud of that career, but have come to realise that it’s the right time to focus more on this business and the story behind every piece. 

Finding a burst of inspiration 

At the time, I didn’t connect the dots, but watching Salvage Hunters with Drew Pritchard and Tee provided the initial spark. Every barn, shop or factory had so many items and history just waiting to be unearthed and brought back to life by sharing their stories.  

I started buying things at online auctions. Going to charity shops I hadn’t visited in years. And then one day I found a 1970s Metamec Starburst Wall Clock. The shape grabbed my attention right away. That bold, pointed starburst is a real classic design frozen in time. I bought it, listed it, and sold it for a good profit. 

That was the moment the idea for Donaldson Vintage was born. If I could buy and sell one piece like that, surely I could do it with others? 

What’s on your walls? 

This shop has only been online for a few months, but I’m working on reducing my eclectic range of stock to focus on art and decorative masks.

And masks, because I believe there’s something sacred and intriguing about having an object in your home that connects to another culture’s traditions and craft. Some people turn their noses up at masks made for the tourist market, but I actually think these can be a respectful way to celebrate  and honour the people who inspired them. 

This is what I want Donaldson Vintage to become: a carefully curated collection of vintage art and objects for walls and homes with personality. Things you won’t find on the high street. Awesome finds with a story worth telling.

Being able to share the tales behind the things I buy is a fire I’ll never put out.