Here’s How To Use AI to Run a Successful Vintage Booth

Running a vintage booth is fun—but let’s be real, it’s also a lot. Between sourcing inventory, staging your space, pricing items, and trying to show up on social media, it can feel like you need a whole team behind you.

That’s where ChatGPT (aka my AI assistant!) comes in. Feel free to use the AI assistant of your choice – Google Gemini, Claud, etc. I know many people prefer not to use AI, and I completely understand. But since these tools are free and can possibly improve your sales, why not give it a try?

It’s like having a coach, researcher, copywriter, merchandiser, and content planner in your back pocket 24/7. Whether I need help pricing a piece I just picked up, reworking my booth layout, or writing a blog post like this one—it’s my secret weapon.

In this post, I’m pulling back the curtain to show you exactly how I use ChatGPT to grow my booth business—and how you can, too.

1. I Use ChatGPT to Plan My Booth Theme & Layout

When I was stuck trying to find a cohesive theme for my booth, ChatGPT helped me narrow down what styles I gravitate toward and what my ideal customer is looking for. Once I defined that theme, it helped me sketch out layouts that use vertical space better, improve flow, and guide the buyer’s eye.

Try this prompt:

“I have a 10×12 booth and want to sell vintage MCM furniture and barware. Can you help me plan a layout and display theme that feels cohesive?”

2. It Helps Me Price My Inventory

Sometimes I find something gorgeous but have no idea what it’s worth. I use ChatGPT to look up comps, consider market trends, and suggest pricing strategies—especially for one-of-a-kind or vintage items that don’t show up often online. I recently did this for a beautiful rattan shelf that I couldn’t find on Google Lens. So I took a picture and added it to Chat GPT and used the prompt below. It did the research and came up with a range of prices that I should offer.

Try this prompt:

“I found a vintage rattan shelf for $50. Can you help me find resale comps and suggest a fair price for my booth?”

3. I Brainstorm Upcycle Projects & DIY Ideas

Need content ideas or ways to turn basic items into bestsellers? ChatGPT helps me brainstorm creative, affordable upcycles that fit my theme. (Think crates turned into rolling storage or spray-painted birdcages turned planters!) I have a side table that has been in my booth for way too long and I recently brought it home to update it. But, I couldn’t think of anything creative to do with it. I added a picture and asked how I can improve it, and here’s what ChatGPT came back with:

DIY Refresh Ideas

1. Paint for a Modern Twist

• Matte black or charcoal for a dramatic, Restoration Hardware–inspired finish.
• Cream or greige with light distressing for a French Country aesthetic.
• Two-tone: Paint the legs and apron, but stain or keep the top wood.

Pro tip: Use a bonding primer first if you don’t want to sand.

2. Gilding or Rub ‘n Buff on Details

• Highlight the carved claws and edges with gold, bronze, or antique wax.
• This adds dimension and elevates the luxury feel.

3. Replace the Glass

• Consider using antique mirror glass for a glam effect.
• Or add wallpaper or fabric under the glass for a unique touch — like a toile print, botanical, or even a faux marble look.

4. Turn It Into a Shadow Box Table

• Add a backing to the glass insert opening and turn it into a shallow display case for:
  • Vintage postcards
  • Shells or driftwood
  • Old keys and hardware
  • Seasonal decor

5. Refinish and Sell as-is (Minimalist Flip)

• If the wood is real and in decent shape, clean it up with:
  • Howard’s Restor-A-Finish or a walnut scratch fix
  • Danish oil or beeswax polish to refresh the luster

This preserves the vintage integrity for buyers who love traditional furniture.

Try this prompt:

“Give me 5 creative ways to upcycle old birdcages that would appeal to a boho or cottagecore audience.”

4. It’s My Marketing Assistant

Need a clever Instagram caption? A booth sign that stops people in their tracks? Or a Pinterest pin that actually gets clicks? I let ChatGPT help me write it—and it keeps my brand voice consistent across platforms.

Try this prompt:

“Write a playful Instagram caption for a vintage mirror makeover. My brand is upbeat and a little sassy.”

Final Thoughts:

AI won’t do everything for you—it’s not going to find your best flea market deals or stage your booth for you—but it can help you think more clearly, get more done, and feel less overwhelmed. And for a solo biz owner? That’s gold.

If you give it a try, let me know how it goes—and feel free to tag me in your booth glow-ups or AI-powered projects!