buying french antiques

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I’ve been buying French antiques for decades. Over the years, I’ve scoured village brocantes, Paris street markets, and professional antique fairs all across France.

When my children were young, and I was a full-time mom of four, I still carved out time for antiquing. Most often, I’d sneak out early on Sunday mornings. Alone or with an antique dealer friend, I’d head to the local fairs before sunrise. We’d start around 6 a.m., visiting several markets and filling the car with treasures. On the way home, I’d stop at the boulangerie for fresh croissants, arriving just as the family was waking up.

Many of those early finds still live in our home today.

I’ve bought antique French furniture, linens, paintings, garden tools, and tableware. Since our house was always full of life, I avoided delicate pieces. Instead, I looked for sturdy vintage furniture, old wooden chairs, iron garden items, and lots of antique tables and bed linens.

Buying antiques in France isn’t just a hobby—it’s a tradition. You’ll find brocante markets in almost every town, with dealers selling everything from 19th-century mirrors to rustic French kitchenware. What makes French decorating unique is how old pieces are mixed with the new. No true French home is ever fully furnished from one store. Instead, they evolve over time, layered with family heirlooms, antique finds, and personal touches.

When we launched MFCH Box and Boutique, it felt natural to include antique French items. It’s not always easy to source enough vintage treasures for all our clients, but I work with a trusted network of dealers to find beautiful and useful items that bring charm to your home.

If you’re dreaming of starting your own collection, you can begin with our French antiques in the MFCH Boutique. From vintage table linens to rustic pottery, it’s a great chance to bring a touch of authentic French country style into your home.