There is no shortage of passion in Jacksonville’s trading card game community, but every so often you come across a vendor whose story reminds you why this hobby brings people together in the first place. For our first ever “Vendor Spotlight”, we are proud to feature DuvalCollector, a team whose energy, connection to the city, and genuine love for the hobby have made them a standout presence at local shows.
From childhood pack openings to traveling statewide as a unified team, DuvalCollector represents the spirit of community that The Card Collab was created to highlight. Their table is more than a place to buy cards. It is a place where conversations happen, memories are shared, and collectors of all ages feel welcome.
Why they’re part of the community
What started with opening Pokémon packs and trading at school has grown into something much bigger. Duval Collector is built on years of passion for the hobby, evolving from casual trades on Facebook, Reddit, and Discord into a full team presence at shows. Today, it’s not just about cards- it’s about showing up, connecting, and building something alongside the community.
Their journey
Having been in and out of the hobby over the years- from early Pokémon days to sports cards during COVID and back into Pokémon around Crown Zenith and 151; the team behind Duval Collector brings a well-rounded perspective to the table. Their experience across eras is reflected in their goal of offering something for every type of collector.
From the vendor
“The best part is the people. Being around family and friends, meeting collectors, and talking cards is what keeps it fun. Especially seeing their cool graphic tees.”
A moment that stands out:
Their first Collect-A-Con as a team stands out as a milestone. Traveling together, vending at a large-scale event, and watching each teammate bring their best created an unforgettable experience. One of the most meaningful moments came when a childhood best friend reconnected after discovering their content, leading to the chance to buy back a piece of a collection they had traded years ago. It’s a reminder that cards aren’t just collectibles, they carry history.
A Wide Range of Specialties
Duval Collector brings a team-first approach. With the combined knowledge and collections of Marc, Jerry, Mark, and their newest team member and longtime friend Ernie, their booth offers cards from nearly every era. The goal is to give collectors variety, depth, and a table that feels welcoming to everyone.
What sets them apart
It starts with energy. Whether it’s live pack breaks of big hits with Jerry’s Rip Til You Hit’s, shouting DUUUVAL, or just welcoming anyone who stops by, Duval Collector creates an experience. Their table isn’t just a place to buy- it’s a place to hang out, talk, and be part of the moment. They also credit strong relationships with local showrunners Lee and Will of The Duuuval Card Show, JJ at River City Card Show, and partners like Mon from Full Circle Collaborations.
Behind the scenes
What most people don’t see is the work that goes into it. From pricing inventory days in advance to investing in displays, content, and setup, building a presence at shows takes serious time and effort. But for them, the positive feedback and support from the community make it all worth it.
Right now
Every Jacksonville show feels like something to look forward to. Even while living in Orlando, coming back home to Jax and seeing the continued support has been a major motivator for DuvalCollector- with long term goals that could one day include opening a local shop of their own.
Favorite card
Togepi from CoroCoro Comics. As a kid, having a card from Japan before Gen II was announced created instant playground legend status. Some kids insisted it was fake, which only made it cooler. It became a core memory of trading at Barnes and Noble.
If you get the chance, be sure to check out the team of DuvalCollector at their next show and experience the energy for yourself! Whether you are buying, selling, trading, or just talking cards, their passion for the hobby and connection to the community stands out. Show your support and keep up with their journey by giving them a follow on their Instagram page, Youtube channel, and on WhatNot.