“The thrill of the hunt is worth it!”

Evy Lena Vintage is fittingly named after Katrina’s grandmother and great-grandmother, as they influenced her interest in vintage housewares, the thrill of a “hunt” at a garage sale or antique shop, entertaining family and friends in her home, and giving a second life to beautifully crafted items from past decades.

The importance of family, friends, and the home has shaped her life. With a small and dwindling family, Katrina became a bit of the “family historian” by soaking up the stories and starting to collect vintage housewares from past generations. She loved the idea of giving a second life to these items and found such happiness in using or displaying them. Then she found herself drawn to thrift stores, flea markets, vintage shops, and estate sales. Her passion really blossomed when she and her husband found their forever home, a craftsman built in 1925 in Cleveland, Ohio that is just full of history and character. She began to style it with discarded treasures that provided function or beauty.

Katrina’s previous career and volunteer work had been dedicated to serving the community through the non-profit sector. After nearly ten years as the Executive Director at a healthcare non-profit, Katrina left in 2020 to pursue a new career path rooted in her passion for vintage housewares. Katrina believes that a curated home should spark joy and provide comfort.

SHOW HIGHLIGHTS & TAKEAWAYS:

  • Thrifting as a way of celebrating memories.
  • Her passion for vintage glass and brass.
  • Trends in collectibles.
  • Thrifting across the country.
  • Integrating treasures from her grandmother’s home into her own.
  • Thrifting tips.