This is me!

Interestingly enough, I have always had this "thing" for silverware. I don't know where it came from or what started it. But I can remember being a young adult and always being drawn to silverware at antique shows.

I just like it.

Since then, I have indulged myself with many pieces and collections of silverware. And in July of 2004 I opened my eBay store, "Community Plate Boutique" because of the brand I chose to learn about and deal with in my store. I only do Community Plate patterns from 1901 to the 1950's. And even then, not all of them. I only do the patterns that I like and that are popular.

The pieces that are in my store are generally premium pieces in fabulous condition. I get very excited when I find rare pieces to put in my store. So much so, that I almost hate to see them be sold. I always hope that they go to a good home and that the folks who buy them use, enjoy, and take care of the pieces as I would.

Outside of eBay, I am a Realtor. I only do silverware on eBay as a hobby that I enjoy very much. When the real estate market is slow, I often do eBay auctions as well as maintain my store items. I frequently achieve Powerseller status, although it does not often last too long because of my full time job.

This is me in color!

Because people ask; I often charge a shipping amount that is higher than the actual shipping charge. I do this because of fees.

First, there are insertion fees. At the end, there are final value fees. Paypal charges a huge fee. On top of all that there are boxes, tape, packing peanuts, bubble wrap, plastic bags, silver polish, a post office box, etc! The list goes on and on.

So, it is true that it costs me $9.65 to ship a box of silverware.

But I charge you $14.99 for it. I just eat whatever cost wasn't covered. Please don't ask me to renegotiate the shipping charges.