The Vintage Bunkhouse
What inspired you to start your vintage shop/boutique?
Being a full-time Paramedic I needed an outlet from the hard calls. I started picking and painting furniture on my days off.
How long have you been in business, and how has your shop evolved over time?
Approximately 13 years
What types of vintage items do you carry?
Salvage, restoration, vintage primitive and or European antiques. We also love American restaurant ware and industrial.
How do you source your vintage pieces? Do you have a favorite story behind a special find?
We travel and drive or fly out items back. I literally use to keep wads of cash in my pocket and I would go around and knock on people's doors If their properties looked promising. Some people would welcome the money and allow me to pick another would say no. I would always ask for any information on the pieces that I would find because customers love a backstory. I have met some wonderful families this way.
Are there any rare or unique items currently in your collection?
Hungarian, swedish, French, German and Dutch. Some items date back to the early 1800s. Some come from the East coast. Too many to just pick one or they've already sold.
Do you offer any special services, such as styling assistance or custom restorations?
Yes we do. I have taken on many custom furniture pieces before for clients, and I offer interior design or home decor, yard decor ideas.
Can shoppers purchase items online, or is everything sold in-store?
We had the availability to purchase online that became too much of a problem through our website. So if someone is interested in something they see through my stories or my photos on Instagram they can DM me and I can work out private shipping. I am moving towards doing shop my flatlay and lives.
Do you host events, workshops, or pop-ups?
We you four events a year. Two are on site and two are off-site. We are a part of vintage road tripping which is a Treasure Valley Shop hop and we participate in vintage Market days. During these events we have pop- up fenders at our stores that offer goods and services.
Any fun or memorable experiences with customers you’d like to share?
It sounds strange but, being a first responder now retired. I have a lot of clients and customers that love to just pop in my shop and use our store and myself as counseling. I have had many wonderful conversations and shared many tears with strangers being able to offer them a similar experience or a kind ear. And I have no problem praying with a customer or hugging them.
Where to shop:
Kara Burke- Owner
241 SW 3rd St Fruitland Idaho. Open Tues- Saturday 10-5
https://thevintagebunkhouse.com/
https://www.facebook.com/theburkevalleyfarm/
