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May 22, 2025 11 mins

Step behind the velvet curtain of the antique world with our deep dive into Griffin Antique Mall of Edmond, Oklahoma. Rather than merely showcasing vintage treasures, we explore the fascinating business model that's revolutionizing how antique malls operate in the digital age.

Griffin stands apart by embracing technology and data-driven decisions in an industry traditionally resistant to change. Their 7,000-square-foot space houses over 70 vendors offering everything from affordable Beanie Babies to exquisite antique clocks, but it's their comprehensive approach to the ecosystem that truly impresses. Built around core values of simplicity, affordability, authenticity, quality, and transparency, they've created a multi-faceted platform serving collectors, casual shoppers, vendors, and consignors alike.

For vendors, Griffin offers much more than booth rental. Their support package includes marketing assistance, sales handling, real-time inventory tracking, and even the opportunity to sell nationwide through their established shipping network. Consignors enjoy a straightforward process with online tracking and prompt payment via direct deposit. Shoppers benefit from both physical and virtual browsing experiences, with thousands of new items arriving weekly and exclusive online offers. The entire operation is enhanced by strategic content creation through social media, blog articles, and their own "Vintage Shop Talk" podcast.

What emerges is a fascinating case study of how traditional retail can evolve without losing its soul. By leveraging technology while honoring the personal connections that make antiquing special, Griffin has created a blueprint for modernizing niche markets. Browse their online offerings, visit in person if you're nearby, or consider joining their vendor community to experience firsthand how they're bridging yesterday's treasures with tomorrow's business practices.

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Episode Transcript

Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:00):
Welcome to the Deep Dive.
Today we're heading virtuallyto Edmond, oklahoma.
We're exploring the GriffinAntique Mall.

Speaker 2 (00:07):
Right, it's known as the biggest one in Edmond,
apparently Just packed withvintage, antique, retro finds.

Speaker 1 (00:14):
Exactly, but we're not just looking at the you know
, the cool items.
Our Deep Dive is more about theGriffin as a business.

Speaker 2 (00:21):
Yeah, how it's operating today in the 21st
century, serving shoppers, sure,but also vendors, consignors,
the whole picture.

Speaker 1 (00:30):
And we've got some good stuff to look at.
Right their own website,basically.

Speaker 2 (00:32):
We do.
We've pulled excerpts from wellall over their site the
homepage, vendor info,consignment details, their blog,
even their podcast info.
It's surprisingly comprehensive.

Speaker 1 (00:44):
Gives us a real peek behind the curtain.

Speaker 2 (00:46):
Yeah.

Speaker 1 (00:46):
Okay, so let's start with their vision.

Speaker 2 (00:47):
They have this founder's note and right off the
bat, you feel it's not justabout looking back.
They respect history, yeah, butthe focus is making it well
accessible now.

Speaker 1 (00:56):
Engaging for today.
They mentioned bringing energyand technology into the antique
industry.
That sounds pretty intentional.

Speaker 2 (01:04):
Oh, absolutely.
It's a very proactive stance,isn't it Modernizing what many
people think of, as you know, apretty traditional market.

Speaker 1 (01:11):
They talk about vendor collaboration, updating
systems.

Speaker 2 (01:14):
Yeah, see, that suggests they're actively trying
to improve things, not justsitting back and their goal
being the main source for homedecor inspiration collecting.

Speaker 1 (01:23):
That's ambitious.
It shows that forward thinkingyou mentioned.

Speaker 2 (01:26):
Definitely.
And then they list their corevalues.
What were they again?

Speaker 1 (01:29):
Simplicity, affordability, authenticity,
quality and transparency thoseseem well pretty crucial in the
antiques world.

Speaker 2 (01:38):
They really are.
Trust is huge right, so thesevalues they likely guide
everything they do.

Speaker 1 (01:43):
Like simplicity in getting a booth, maybe.
Oh yeah, Avortability forshoppers.

Speaker 2 (01:47):
Exactly Ensuring things are authentic, good
quality and being transparent.
You know, with vendors aboutsales, with customers about
items.
It probably shapes the wholeexperience.

Speaker 1 (01:57):
It sounds like it.
They also mention growth likemultiple locations, live online
sales.

Speaker 2 (02:02):
Right, which tells you they're not thinking small.
They want to expand their reach.

Speaker 1 (02:06):
Okay, here's something that really caught my
eye Using technology fordata-driven decisions.
You don't always connectantiques with like data
analytics.

Speaker 2 (02:15):
No, you don't, and that's a key differentiator, I
think.
By tracking data, they canactually know what's selling,
who's buying, maybe evenfine-tune pricing.

Speaker 1 (02:25):
Instead of just guessing.

Speaker 2 (02:26):
Precisely, it moves beyond just intuition and for
you listening, that could meanwell, a better selection of
stuff people actually want,maybe better prices to Makes
sense and that data probablyhelps with their goal of a
national presence right Throughthe shipping and the live
streams.
Absolutely.
It lets them effectively reachcustomers way beyond Edmund.

Speaker 1 (02:46):
And they also talk about empowering employees and
vendors, giving them tools,resources.

Speaker 2 (02:51):
Yeah, it sounds like building a community, almost an
ecosystem.

Speaker 1 (02:55):
Because their success relies on the vendor's success,
doesn't it?

Speaker 2 (02:58):
It totally does.
Supporting them helps everyoneinvolved thrive in this kind of
unique market.

Speaker 1 (03:08):
Okay, so shifting gears, shopping If you're
thinking of going there orbrowsing online, what's the
experience like?
They mentioned thousands ofsquare feet, 70 plus vendors.

Speaker 2 (03:17):
Yeah, that's a pretty significant size, and having
that many individual vendorsmeans you'll likely see a huge
range of stuff different styles,different eras.

Speaker 1 (03:25):
Something for everyone probably.

Speaker 2 (03:27):
Probably, and they say thousands of new items
arrive weekly.

Speaker 1 (03:30):
Wow, weekly, so it's always changing.

Speaker 2 (03:33):
Keeps it fresh, gives you a reason to pop back in,
physically or online.

Speaker 1 (03:36):
Speaking of online, their store seems like more than
just an afterthought.
They mention exclusive accessto rare finds online.

Speaker 2 (03:44):
Which is smart.
It caters to people who can'tvisit, obviously, but also
creates a bit of, you know,online buzz.

Speaker 1 (03:49):
Makes sense and the 247 shopping, nationwide
shipping.
That's pretty standarde-commerce, but maybe less so
for traditional antique malls.

Speaker 2 (03:57):
It can be.
Their commitment to weeklyonline updates is also notable.

Speaker 1 (04:03):
Shows they're really maintaining that virtual
storefront and they highlightthe items come from Oklahoma's
finest vendors.
Back to that quality.

Speaker 2 (04:08):
Right, Reinforcing that curation aspect Right.
They also give a specific sizefor the physical store 7,000
square feet.

Speaker 1 (04:14):
That gives you a good mental picture, and online they
list actual examples like whatwas it, Baby Ben clock for $280.

Speaker 2 (04:22):
Yeah, Some GE clocks much cheaper.
Yeah $15 to $50.
Even Beanie Babies.

Speaker 1 (04:27):
Beanie Babies.
Okay, so real mix.

Speaker 2 (04:30):
A real mix From like $15 Beanie Babies up to pricier
clocks and some art glass, likea $20 Wano vase, a Northcrest
Swan vase for $18.
It shows the range.

Speaker 1 (04:42):
And they have our favorites this week's section
online too.

Speaker 2 (04:44):
Yeah, which is a nice touch, like a little curated
highlight reel to draw you in.

Speaker 1 (04:48):
Okay, let's flip it.
What about becoming a vendorthere?
Who are?

Speaker 2 (04:51):
they looking for Sounds like people who genuinely
appreciate vintage, uniqueitems.
They talk about a growingcommunity, a nurturing, dynamic
atmosphere.

Speaker 1 (05:00):
That sounds appealing if you're say, a small business
owner trying to sell antiquesor vintage.

Speaker 2 (05:04):
Definitely, and the process seems straightforward
Join a waitlist, pick a spacewhen one opens up, then set it
up how you like.

Speaker 1 (05:10):
They have different booth sizes available.

Speaker 2 (05:12):
Yeah, they mention various sizes, though you need
to contact them for currentoptions and pricing Makes sense.

Speaker 1 (05:18):
And there are rules about inventory right.

Speaker 2 (05:20):
Yeah.

Speaker 1 (05:20):
Mostly antique vintage retro.

Speaker 2 (05:23):
Yep, 80% has to be that.
The other 20% can be handmadeor wholesale.
But everything must be for sale.
No display-only stuff.

Speaker 1 (05:31):
That keeps the focus on antiques and the rent.

Speaker 2 (05:40):
Varies by booth size and location, which is standard.
They say contact them or checka virtual map for pricing.

Speaker 1 (05:42):
Rent's due monthly and contracts are month-to-month
.
That's pretty flexible.

Speaker 2 (05:44):
Very flexible, big plus for vendors.
They do mention a 4% fee forcard payments.
Good to know up front.

Speaker 1 (05:50):
What about support?
Do they help vendors sell?

Speaker 2 (05:52):
It sounds like it.
They mention marketing supportlike a loyalty program and
holiday campaigns to drive foottraffic.

Speaker 1 (05:58):
Which benefits everyone.

Speaker 2 (05:59):
Exactly, and the online reporting system for
sales and inventory.
That's huge.
How so Well.
It gives vendors real-time dataon what's selling, what they
have in stock.
They can manage things remotely.
It's a really valuable tool,especially if you're not super
ticky yourself.

Speaker 1 (06:17):
Right.

Speaker 2 (06:17):
It simplifies things and the Griffin staff handles
customer help.
Yeah, Frees up the vendor tofocus on sourcing and staging
their booth.
They encourage personalizationtoo, letting vendors show off
their own style.

Speaker 1 (06:27):
And here's a big one.
Items can potentially be soldonline and shipped nationally.

Speaker 2 (06:32):
Huge.
They've shipped to over 18states already.
That opens up a massive marketfor a vendor, way beyond local
shoppers.

Speaker 1 (06:40):
Without them needing their own website and shipping
setup.

Speaker 2 (06:42):
Precisely.
It's part of their support foryour success package.
Marketing, sales handlingutilities, sales tax collection,
keeping the place clean.

Speaker 1 (06:51):
Seems like a pretty comprehensive service for the
rent.

Speaker 2 (06:53):
It does, and they emphasize quality and uniqueness
, setting the standard for whatthey want in the mall.

Speaker 1 (06:59):
Plus there's Dixie Boo.

Speaker 2 (07:01):
Ah yes, the friendly shop dog greeter adds that nice
welcoming touch.

Speaker 1 (07:05):
Definitely OK.
So maybe you don't want a wholebooth but you have like a few
really nice pieces to sell.
What about consigning?

Speaker 2 (07:14):
They offer that too.
The process sounds prettysimple Send pictures first for
approval.

Speaker 1 (07:17):
So they curate the consignment items too.

Speaker 2 (07:19):
Looks like it.
If approved, you drop the itemsoff and then you get paid by
direct deposit when somethingsells.

Speaker 1 (07:25):
What's the main benefit for the consignor?

Speaker 2 (07:28):
Exposure really.
Your items get seen by theirshopperspers, both in-store and,
potentially, online.
You tap into their customerbase and marketing without doing
the legwork yourself.

Speaker 1 (07:38):
They handle the selling the questions.

Speaker 2 (07:40):
All of it.
It's designed to be hassle-free.
And they mention fast payoutvia direct deposit.

Speaker 1 (07:45):
What kind of items do they take on consignment?

Speaker 2 (07:48):
High-quality vintage, antique, retro, unique or
collectible things, againsubject to approval.
They're maintaining standardsand the commission Standard 50%
split after the item sells.
Items stay on the floor for 90days.

Speaker 1 (08:03):
What happens after 90 days if it hasn't sold?

Speaker 2 (08:05):
You can either pick it up or potentially renew.
The agreement Gives you options.

Speaker 1 (08:09):
And consignors can track things.

Speaker 2 (08:11):
Yeah, they get access to an online portal to see
their sales and inventory status.
That transparency is key.

Speaker 1 (08:16):
Makes sense.
The agreement highlights seemfair too.
Items clean and sellable.
Pricing is collaborative.

Speaker 2 (08:23):
Right and you have the right to get unsold items
back.
It sets clear expectations foreveryone.

Speaker 1 (08:28):
So, beyond just the buying and selling, the Griffins
seems pretty focused oncommunity building engagement.

Speaker 2 (08:34):
They really do.
They're all over social mediaFacebook, pinterest, instagram,
tiktok, youtube.
That's essential these days.

Speaker 1 (08:41):
For sure.
Showcasing items connectingwith followers, building that
brand presence.

Speaker 2 (08:46):
Absolutely, and they even have their own podcast,
vintage Shop Talk.

Speaker 1 (08:50):
Oh, interesting.
What's it about Vintage?

Speaker 2 (08:51):
Shop Talk oh interesting.
What's it about?
Sounds like it covers itemhistories, tips for vendors,
stories, industry insights, away to share knowledge and
connect with the wider vintagecommunity.

Speaker 1 (09:00):
Positions them as more than just a store.

Speaker 2 (09:02):
Exactly as a resource , a hub for enthusiasts, and
they have a blog too, witharticles on specific topics.
Yeah, things like anti-clocks,chairs, rug care, tea services,
lighting.
They shared some titles likeTimeless Elegance, a Guide to
Anti-Clocks.

Speaker 1 (09:18):
And their Enduring Charm.
Okay, so they're putting outactual content.

Speaker 2 (09:22):
Informative content.
It helps collectors, driveswebsite traffic and, just you
know, establishes theirexpertise.

Speaker 1 (09:29):
It all builds that community feel, encouraging
connection sharing updates.

Speaker 2 (09:33):
And they even give a nod to being part of the wider
antique shop scene in EdmondNice.
Local touch.

Speaker 1 (09:38):
Okay, let's cover the practical stuff quickly.
Address contact info.

Speaker 2 (09:42):
All there.
Physical address on Fretz Drivein Edmond.
Phone number general email.

Speaker 1 (09:47):
And specific emails for sales vendors.
Customer service.

Speaker 2 (09:51):
Yep helps route inquiries efficiently.
Operating hours are listedclearly to afternoons and
evenings, mostly Sundayafternoons.

Speaker 1 (09:58):
Good to know they take various payments.
Mention careers, internships.
Seems like a well-run operation.

Speaker 2 (10:04):
It certainly presents that way.
Online Covers all the bases.

Speaker 1 (10:07):
So, wrapping this up, the Griffin Antique Mall, it's
clearly more than just shelvesof old items.

Speaker 2 (10:12):
Definitely They've got this really dynamic approach
, the Griffin Antique Mall, it'sclearly more than just shelves
of old items.
They've got this really dynamicapproach, trying to innovate
within the antique business.

Speaker 1 (10:18):
Building this platform that works for shoppers
, collectors, vendors andconsignors.

Speaker 2 (10:23):
Right and blending that physical mall experience
with a strong online presencefor both buying and selling.

Speaker 1 (10:34):
It's quite a multifaceted model.
It really shows how a business,even in a traditional sector
like antiques, can adapt usingtechnology and focusing on, well
, everyone involved.

Speaker 2 (10:41):
Makes you think, doesn't it?
Maybe check them out online or,if you're nearby, stop in, or
perhaps you have somethingperfect to consign.

Speaker 1 (10:48):
Or even think about becoming a vendor.
It's an interesting look at howthe world of antiques is
evolving.

Speaker 2 (10:53):
Absolutely Definitely worth exploring their website
and social media to see whatthey're up to.
You might find your nexttreasure or just learn something
new.
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