A few months ago, I stumbled into something that has quietly become one of our favorite family hobbies: vintage shopping through Instagram Live sales. I was doing what I usually do—scrolling through beautiful photos from the vintage shops I follow—when one of them popped up as “live.” Out of curiosity, I tapped in… and walked straight into a live sale.
If you’ve never experienced one, it’s such a fascinating little world. A vintage or antique seller—sometimes joined by a couple of others—takes turns showcasing pieces. They hold each item up to the camera, talk through its history or charm, point out details, and then call out a price. If you want it, you simply type “claim” along with the item number. And if more than one person is interested? It turns into a fast-paced, slightly adrenaline-filled bidding moment right there in the comments.
The first time I watched, I didn’t buy a thing—I was too busy trying to understand how it all worked. But the second time? I claimed my first piece. And since then… well, let’s just say a few carefully chosen treasures have made their way into our home.
What I love most is that it’s not random shopping. I’ve become really intentional about it—curating pieces that reflect how I want our home to feel. Lately, that means soft, coastal-inspired items: weathered woods, glass, muted blues, anything that feels like it carries a bit of sea air with it. I’ve even started following specific vintage sellers and antique dealers who specialize in that coastal aesthetic, so I can keep an eye out for just the right finds.
The process itself is surprisingly simple. After the sale, the seller sends an invoice—usually within a day or two. You pay, and then your new-to-you treasure ships out to you. It feels a little like modern treasure hunting, but from your couch.
And honestly? It’s become more than just shopping. It’s something we enjoy together—watching, chatting, occasionally claiming, and imagining where each piece might live in our home.
Have you ever joined an Instagram Live sale like this? I’d love to hear what you thought—or what you’ve found.
Wonderful link-ups I enjoy—
Mondays - Sweet Tea & Friends, Hearth & Soul Community, You Are The Star, Love Your Creativity Link-Party // Tuesdays- Tuesday Turn About, Nature Notes // Wednesdays- Karin’s Kottage , Wonderful Wednesday Blog Hop, Homestead Blog Hop, Happiness is Homemade // Thursdays-Thursday Favorite Things Tablescape Thursday // Fridays- Farmhouse Fridays, Five Minute Friday Crazy Little Lovebirds, A Morning Cup of Joe, Saturday Sparks Link Party, Happiness is Homemade // Tea on Tuesdays (3rd Tuesday of the Month), Create, Bake, Grow & Gather Party