How I went vintage-hunting across Japan

Last month, I went vintage hunting in Japan for my second collection.

I’ve been visiting family in Japan every year since I was a baby, so going back this time to source for Marseille Blue felt like a full-circle dream.

This was my first official sourcing trip, and while I was excited, I’ll admit that figuring out the logistics of bringing everything back was a challenge. Since I’m starting small and don’t have the budget for a shipping container yet, I did it the scrappy way: five full suitcases and one oversized box.

Definitely not the most efficient or sustainable method, but it got the job done.

Even though I’m running Marseille Blue solo full time, I’ve been lucky to have the most supportive crew. My mom, my boyfriend, and a close friend all met me in Japan to help source, shoot photos, and carry everything we found from tiny markets across the country.

I’m sharing this because while I want Marseille Blue to feel elevated, curated, and thoughtful, it also has very real, DIY beginnings. That’s something I’m proud of.

There’s a lot of time, cost, and effort that goes into every collection. I know I’ll need to find more scalable systems soon, but right now I’m leaning into this slow and hands-on growth. I’m learning as I go and loving the process.

Now onto what’s coming:

This next collection is something special.

We sourced from local markets around Tokyo and traveled deep into the mountains to Takayama, a beautiful town known for its woodworking and traditional craftsmanship.

Expect more of what you saw from the first drop, but this time it’s entirely Japanese (French goods are coming later this year).

You’ll see teapots, sake sets, vases, carved wooden objects, small storage pieces, a hinoki vanity, and something new — original lighting. I’ll share more soon, but just know these pieces are one-of-a-kind and I can’t wait for you to see them in your homes.

The next collection launches late summer. I’m so excited to show you what’s coming.

With care,

Ellie