S10 Ep12 BROOKE NAULT: Daisy and Stella Vintage and Twin Cities True Vintage Show – on finding her niche in Victorian and Edwardian through 1930s fashion, and building a destination vintage show.

In this episode of Pre-Loved Podcast, host Emily Stochl sits down with Brooke Nault, founder of Daisy and Stella Vintage and curator of the Twin Cities True Vintage Show. Brooke shares her lifelong journey into vintage fashion, beginning with childhood visits to antique malls and vintage shops in Madison, Wisconsin, and evolving into a specialized focus on Victorian, Edwardian, and 1930s fashion. She discusses how narrowing her niche—once overwhelmed by selling across multiple eras—transformed her business, making her a sought-after expert and enabling deeper connections with collectors and vendors. The conversation dives into her sourcing strategies, including online auctions, estate sales, and a growing network of trusted collectors, as well as her experience with the rare and often overlooked pieces that end up in her bins for years before being recognized for their value. A major highlight is Brooke’s creation of the Twin Cities True Vintage Show, inspired by the now-defunct Cat’s Pajamas show, which she envisioned as a curated, experience-driven event where attendees dress in vintage, vendors sell only 50+ year-old pieces, and educational components like live demonstrations and live mannequin displays deepen engagement. The show has become a destination for vintage enthusiasts from across the U.S. and internationally, celebrated for its community, authenticity, and respect for craftsmanship. Brooke also shares personal stories of rare finds, including a 1920s flapper wig and a 1770s green embroidered frock coat she missed out on, and reflects on the emotional weight of pieces tied to her father and personal history. Her journey underscores the power of patience, specialization, and community in building a sustainable, meaningful vintage business. Key takeaways include: 1) Niche specialization leads to greater authority, customer trust, and business success in vintage; 2) Building a destination event requires vision, community-building, and unique experiences beyond simple sales; 3) Vintage isn’t just about clothing—it’s about history, craftsmanship, and emotional connection; 4) Patience pays off—many rare pieces are discovered years after acquisition; 5) Education and inclusivity make vintage accessible to newcomers; 6) The vintage market is growing, but scarcity and emotional value will continue to drive demand; 7) Personal stories and heritage make vintage pieces irreplaceable; 8) Platforms like Whatnot can expand reach and community, even for niche collectors.