As some of you may know, I'm in the process of quietly taking over the cafe where I work, making it more vintage than the usual generic cafe. Don't get me wrong, it's pretty cosy and sweet already, but as I spend more time here than anywhere else, I really want it to reflect my tastes and personality. I've took pictures, and will post them as soon as I find my USB connection (I know its around here somewhere!), but for now, the basics. Window fronted, with a built in window seat, a small two seater cream couch and two cream cub chairs. Two pale wooden unvarnished tables, and six black chairs, style varies. All from Ikea! Bane of my life sometimes! The decor is a deep tan, not orangey enough to be terracota, and random "artwork" from... you've guessed it, Ikea!

i've brought in some plants, and replacing the (IKEA!) cushions with pretty covers, and now I'm buying big chunky mugs and dainty little tea cups. The artwork WILL be replaced, and I've been searching for a record player to play all the records I've been saving up from the 40's and 50's.

So, my dear new friends, I ask you, what would YOU expect from a vintage cafe? Pictures would help too!

Miz

]Maybe a few glass front curio cabinets with a collection of platters or tea cups and/or some books on vintage or tearooms on oneof the shelves. Something that the customers can purchase.
Some iron tables with glass tops..or old patio tables and iron chairs.
whatever it is it shouldn't be overdone because it has to look clean not dusty so less is more.
Venetian mirrors, change out the lighting and put in a variety of chandelears., if possible. The possibilities are endless. Good luck with your cafe.

Oh yes... the chandelier and vintage books sound wonderful! So does hearing the old records playing in the background. Maybe, if you don't already, you could wear some really cute aprons too.;)

Ok, I posted a reply two days ago, and for some reason it seems to have disappeared! Not exactly sure why, and it was a long reply (don'tcha just HATE it when that happens?), so to quickly recap...

... Aprons, got cotton vintage ones for home use, would rather a more hard-wearing, though pretty, apron for cafe use. Any ideas?

... Chandelier sounds darling, but unfortunately no can do on the cafe's current ceiling. Taken into consideration should I convince dear Bossman to alter said ceiling. As inspiration however, I will be placing tiny lamps on my tables with chandelier-esque shades.

... Also loving the idea of white cast iron patio furniture instead of the generic Ikea tables, while I'm on the hunt for them, I'm going to white wash or white gloss the tables.

... Lastly, I'm going to find a lockable cabinet to store books, memorabilia, records, yada yada. Not a tall one, so I can place my record player on the top.


Thanks ladies! Any more suggestions, just let me know!

Miz

Thank you Barbara! I love the idea of mismatched crockery and silverware. I've started bringing in books, especially lovely aged hardbacks and anything to do with vintage home keeping.

I'm going to be offline for a while, I'm moving home so I'm gonna be busy with that! I'll check in when I can though.

Miz

Good luck with the cafe...your plans (and the suggestions made all sound really great).

I wonder...have you room for a small old sideboard (practical for storage underneath and the top could be used for displaying specialty cakes/desserts underneath domed pretty vintage plates?).

In the apron department....have you considered using the light oilcloth-type fabrics (ie Cath Kidston style) for the aprons. They would be easily wiped clean and some of the fabrics are vintagey in appearance.

Or....how about a uniform type outfit....("Upstairs, Downstairs" style) with the hat, black underdress with white apron over? I've seen that in a tea shop near to us and it looks really great...keeps the theme going iyswim.

Anyhow...I love your idea. Have you any piccies you can share when you get your cafe all sorted out? Happy sorting!

Jacquie x

ooh yes, merseylass - I would LOVE to see cafe staff in a kind of updated version of the Lyon's Corner House "nippies" uniform!

Black dress, or black top and trousers, and a really pretty neat trim white apron - not the big white French Waiters' aprons you see often, but something really feminine and pretty, perhaps with a pocket for pen and pad?
And the little white cap would be perfect, but I don't know WHERE to suggest going to get those! They would be the finishing touch, though... it would make the cafe really unique!

laura

I am toying with the idea of a uniform. Since it's only me, I'm sure the staff will be happy with what I choose! I have a black shirt dress, full skirted so I can get a petticoat under it (the joys!) and an apron would be so lovely!

I"ll report more soon!

Miz

How's the cafe going? It sounds lovely! I'd love to see some pictures? x

Good to hear your plans are coming along nicely, Miz. I'll look forward to updates (and maybe piccies???) one day soon.

Jacquie x