Changes abound at the Flea Market in Flowood and with them brings the Davis' to the forefront...in their case, it's the store front, booths 21-23. New to our vendor family, Lewis and Pat joined us in August of this year. They may be new to you and I; but, they are no beginners in pleasing the public and offering sundries and merchandise that are sure to tickle the fancy of even the pickiest of customers. Lewis spent years in the business of retail and sales, culminating his success with The Steak Shop...which should be familiar to many of you.
As the Davis couple made the decision, in retirement, to join the Flea Market, Lewis brought with him the delectable Mississippi Cheese Straws, the highly addictive Lemon Straws, Mississippi Mudpuppies and Ubon's BBQ Sauce. (I'm hoping the sample platter is close to my booth). One would think that would be plenty to entice everyone to their neck of the market woods; but, that didn't stop them from expanding to a wide variety of vintage/antique items and three booths chock full of "other stuff," as the Davis' call it.
As a next door booth neighbor, one will quickly discover Lewis and Pat to be charming, warm and friendly. You'll be hard pressed to find someone who doesn't have wonderful things to say about this couple. Maybe it's their smiles or the genuine firm handshake, they want to make you feel at home, in their new space.
"We've priced our items so that they are affordable," states Lewis. In a time when we are all pinching pennies, but still wanting to add beautiful items to our home, it's refreshing to meet a couple who desire to help the customer, while helping their own business. "Everything is priced from $10-$100 and all prices are negotiable."
With the holidays upon us, this weekend might be a great time to check out their wares, sample their selection of gourmet foods and open yourself up to some delightful conversation. You might even find some great Christmas gifts...maybe a tin of Mississippi Cheese Straws or Lemon Straws. Now that's some food for thought.
Davis Specialty Foods & Other Stuff/ 601-940-9971
Friday, December 6, 2013
Friday, November 15, 2013
Buddy and Pam Hilderbrand
If you make your first left upon entering the Flowood Flea Market and walk towards the back, you will meet the Hilderbrands of Booth 5, 6 and 7. Veterans of the Flea Market after three years of developing a strong following for their wares, Buddy, himself, is retired Air Force and Pam is his wife and business partner. Their amiable and relaxed personal style is as striking as their merchandise and the eclectic mix of vintage, antique and primitive furniture is only a hint of what the couple have to offer.
Glassware, unique and vintage items fill the cases, soft lighting warms the booth along with a large selection of the sort of things that would make any room a place you want to be. "We rented space temporarily, so that we could get rid of some things," Buddy quips incredulously. "It just turned into a business." The conversation continued as he and Pam stood behind one of the three pieces that he handcrafted specifically for "The Sound and the Fury," which should be coming out by 2014, starring James Franco and Jon Hamm.
Looking around the three booths, one can find just about anything in an eye catching array of furniture styles. Buddy specializes in furniture restoration, primitive styling and building to specifications. Just like the pie safe, dry sink and kitchen table replicas of pieces from 1870, the Hilderbrands pride themselves in the art of creating for you, the furniture, literally of your dreams. "If you bring me a picture or a drawing, I can make it for you," Buddy says, running his hand on the edge of one of the pieces which will grace the silver screen.
"If you purchase a piece of furniture that I didn't build, I can guarantee you that it has the original finish. I only paint them, if there is no other way to restore it." Pride in their work and genuine care are what stands out about the couple and what they sell. As we spoke on Saturday, a dealer walked by and Pam thanked him for his help. His response to her, "No, thank you...for everything you do."
So, as the holidays get closer, and you are thinking...I want something different...or I want a cupboard just like my grandmother's...you might want to give your significant other Buddy and Pam's information. Second hand furniture can be many things, but if nothing else, it is unique, as are the Hilderbrands. Heck...forget sending someone else down to meet with them. Maybe you should just go yourself or give them a call 601-951-8490. Buddy and Pam can't wait to meet you...
Glassware, unique and vintage items fill the cases, soft lighting warms the booth along with a large selection of the sort of things that would make any room a place you want to be. "We rented space temporarily, so that we could get rid of some things," Buddy quips incredulously. "It just turned into a business." The conversation continued as he and Pam stood behind one of the three pieces that he handcrafted specifically for "The Sound and the Fury," which should be coming out by 2014, starring James Franco and Jon Hamm.
Looking around the three booths, one can find just about anything in an eye catching array of furniture styles. Buddy specializes in furniture restoration, primitive styling and building to specifications. Just like the pie safe, dry sink and kitchen table replicas of pieces from 1870, the Hilderbrands pride themselves in the art of creating for you, the furniture, literally of your dreams. "If you bring me a picture or a drawing, I can make it for you," Buddy says, running his hand on the edge of one of the pieces which will grace the silver screen.
"If you purchase a piece of furniture that I didn't build, I can guarantee you that it has the original finish. I only paint them, if there is no other way to restore it." Pride in their work and genuine care are what stands out about the couple and what they sell. As we spoke on Saturday, a dealer walked by and Pam thanked him for his help. His response to her, "No, thank you...for everything you do."
So, as the holidays get closer, and you are thinking...I want something different...or I want a cupboard just like my grandmother's...you might want to give your significant other Buddy and Pam's information. Second hand furniture can be many things, but if nothing else, it is unique, as are the Hilderbrands. Heck...forget sending someone else down to meet with them. Maybe you should just go yourself or give them a call 601-951-8490. Buddy and Pam can't wait to meet you...
Friday, November 8, 2013
Hottest Trend in Antiques for 2014
Trends come and go. This year's "go to" clothing can find itself blacklisted next year. Bikes, rackets, lamps, tablecloths...Let's face it, we all have one room that has items we just had to have and are still scratching because of the decision. When we go to the flea market or antique mall, we hope that today's prize will not eventually become added weight in an already bulging closet or the spare room that no longer has...well...spare room. Consider, this time, investing in an item that has been around longer than you and is in the spotlight for 2014 amongst antiquers and designers alike...furniture.
The thought of adding one or two pieces of vintage or antique furniture can be intimidating and foreign. You may have already filled your house with a modern look, or southwestern, or IKEA. No matter. According to some of the hottest interior designers, antique furniture is a must have for homes of every size, shape and taste.
Beautiful Homes and Designs suggests that the mixing of antique wood and other mediums gives an added depth and warmth that new furniture alone cannot offer. It's been lived with, loved and is waiting for you to revive it with your ideas.
Don't be afraid of mixing woods, the tones, the grains and varnish, all have the ability to soften a corner, become the focal point or pull together your already fabulous and discerning eye.
Here are some things to look for in your furniture. Dovetailed drawers tell you that the dresser is built to last. Pay close attention to veneers or pressed wood items that might be used in the laundry room or bathroom. They may not survive all the impending moisture but, would be a perfect fit for entry way, a landing, or as an unconventional buffet. A dresser doesn't have to be used as one. An armoire works in so many locations...bedroom, hallway, even the living room. Whether you are storing sweaters, linens or the family TV, an antique armoire offers space, efficiency and conversation to any room.
Don't let yourself be trapped by tradition. Make your own. It's your house...your apartment and your taste. There's antique furniture to match any budget and idea. My houses have always been filled with an eclectic mix. Some of it has been pricey and some started as a downright bargain. In the end, all of the pieces became priceless and my guests never cease to comment on the blending I do of old and new.
Fortunately, this trend is on the rise...it's fun, it's hot and 2014 is just around the corner. If you hurry, you can move some of that packed closet into your new antique chest before your holiday guests arrive with the new year.
The thought of adding one or two pieces of vintage or antique furniture can be intimidating and foreign. You may have already filled your house with a modern look, or southwestern, or IKEA. No matter. According to some of the hottest interior designers, antique furniture is a must have for homes of every size, shape and taste.
Beautiful Homes and Designs suggests that the mixing of antique wood and other mediums gives an added depth and warmth that new furniture alone cannot offer. It's been lived with, loved and is waiting for you to revive it with your ideas.
Don't be afraid of mixing woods, the tones, the grains and varnish, all have the ability to soften a corner, become the focal point or pull together your already fabulous and discerning eye.
Here are some things to look for in your furniture. Dovetailed drawers tell you that the dresser is built to last. Pay close attention to veneers or pressed wood items that might be used in the laundry room or bathroom. They may not survive all the impending moisture but, would be a perfect fit for entry way, a landing, or as an unconventional buffet. A dresser doesn't have to be used as one. An armoire works in so many locations...bedroom, hallway, even the living room. Whether you are storing sweaters, linens or the family TV, an antique armoire offers space, efficiency and conversation to any room.
Don't let yourself be trapped by tradition. Make your own. It's your house...your apartment and your taste. There's antique furniture to match any budget and idea. My houses have always been filled with an eclectic mix. Some of it has been pricey and some started as a downright bargain. In the end, all of the pieces became priceless and my guests never cease to comment on the blending I do of old and new.
Fortunately, this trend is on the rise...it's fun, it's hot and 2014 is just around the corner. If you hurry, you can move some of that packed closet into your new antique chest before your holiday guests arrive with the new year.
Friday, November 1, 2013
Words...Words...Words...
For most of us, pictures, paintings or prints are what we hang on our walls. We decorate our surroundings with expected expressions of who we are and what we want others to think about us. As a writer, I look to words as a definition of me. You may be wondering what this has to do with flea markets or second hand items...a lot. You can walk down the aisles of any flea market or antique mall and find thousands of items that can express your thoughts about yourself, your home or simply a room. Instead of feeling intimidated by the possibilities of such an item, consider these ideas:
1. Signs-
Probably the easiest of items to work with, you can find these everywhere in all shapes and sizes. The larger your home, the more fun you can have with them. For example, you can find a sign that expresses your sentiment or thought, or you can combine several small signs to express your thought, such as "Always Kiss Me Goodnight"...perfect for your bedroom or your child's. A simple arrow can be used to direct guests upstairs. A sign that says "Stop" is a wonderful for a mud room and if you can capture the "boy" and "girl" signs for a restroom, they can be used on your children's bedroom doors. You know your own style or the look you are aiming to achieve. Once your start looking for signs, you'll find them everywhere and at prices that meet your budget and creative ideas.
2. Books-
I love books, but there is no doubt that there are unused millions everywhere you go. So, if you feel that books define you, then here's a few ways you can use them. The easiest way to use large bulky books is for an eclectic bedside table. You can top it with a glass topper, found in Wal-Mart and Target, or you can forgo the glass top and use a book itself as the resting place for your coffee mug. Both sides of my bed have these tables. One side is coffee table books about Feng Shui and the other about gardening. It's a winner no matter how you look at it. I've made room on my bookshelf and I didn't have to buy nightstands.
The themes are endless and multipurpose. If you don't have books and want to try this, there isn't a booth out there that doesn't have books you can get for a song. I have a friend who uses the pages of books to paper lamp bases and cheap glass vases. Talk about an inexpensive gift or addition to a room that is sure to become a conversation piece. If you really want push the envelope, try wallpapering an accent wall with book pages. Once again, let your imagination take you. Use a cornstarch paste for easy removal or wallpaper paste for something more permanent. All you need is one of those credit cards you've hidden in that drawer to ensure there are no bubbles under the pages and each page will lay flat, in any direction.
3. Individual Letters-
There isn't an idea book or magazine that doesn't showcase at least one page with a word wall art piece made of different items brought together. Consider industrial letters or old tools for a "man cave". What about buttons sewn on burlap and framed, or not framed, to express your thought. Throw pillows, bed spreads, clothing suddenly become a mouthpiece for your ideas. A frame is a frame, until you use Scrabble letters to theme it as "Friends," "Love" or "Puppy". All you need is a glue gun and an idea.
I could go on and on; but, I'd rather leave it up to you to discover what it is you want to say and how you want to say it. The internet can offer even more ideas and the tutorials to accomplish your project. Don't be afraid to ask dealers if they would be willing to offer you a greater deal, if you are buying in bulk. Dealers want to sell and a lot of the items you would use for this type of project are plentiful. If a dealer believes they will sell all of their books collecting dust, I'll bet they can work out something that pleases you both.
My guess is that once you start using your words, you won't be able to stop. Get your kids involved. What's the worst thing that can happen? They might read the pages, practice spelling or give you the best idea ever. Words give us direction, tell us where we are and bring people together. Where better to use them than in your home. Express yourself and the theme of your haven with words...words...words...
1. Signs-
Probably the easiest of items to work with, you can find these everywhere in all shapes and sizes. The larger your home, the more fun you can have with them. For example, you can find a sign that expresses your sentiment or thought, or you can combine several small signs to express your thought, such as "Always Kiss Me Goodnight"...perfect for your bedroom or your child's. A simple arrow can be used to direct guests upstairs. A sign that says "Stop" is a wonderful for a mud room and if you can capture the "boy" and "girl" signs for a restroom, they can be used on your children's bedroom doors. You know your own style or the look you are aiming to achieve. Once your start looking for signs, you'll find them everywhere and at prices that meet your budget and creative ideas.
2. Books-
I love books, but there is no doubt that there are unused millions everywhere you go. So, if you feel that books define you, then here's a few ways you can use them. The easiest way to use large bulky books is for an eclectic bedside table. You can top it with a glass topper, found in Wal-Mart and Target, or you can forgo the glass top and use a book itself as the resting place for your coffee mug. Both sides of my bed have these tables. One side is coffee table books about Feng Shui and the other about gardening. It's a winner no matter how you look at it. I've made room on my bookshelf and I didn't have to buy nightstands.
The themes are endless and multipurpose. If you don't have books and want to try this, there isn't a booth out there that doesn't have books you can get for a song. I have a friend who uses the pages of books to paper lamp bases and cheap glass vases. Talk about an inexpensive gift or addition to a room that is sure to become a conversation piece. If you really want push the envelope, try wallpapering an accent wall with book pages. Once again, let your imagination take you. Use a cornstarch paste for easy removal or wallpaper paste for something more permanent. All you need is one of those credit cards you've hidden in that drawer to ensure there are no bubbles under the pages and each page will lay flat, in any direction.
3. Individual Letters-
There isn't an idea book or magazine that doesn't showcase at least one page with a word wall art piece made of different items brought together. Consider industrial letters or old tools for a "man cave". What about buttons sewn on burlap and framed, or not framed, to express your thought. Throw pillows, bed spreads, clothing suddenly become a mouthpiece for your ideas. A frame is a frame, until you use Scrabble letters to theme it as "Friends," "Love" or "Puppy". All you need is a glue gun and an idea.
I could go on and on; but, I'd rather leave it up to you to discover what it is you want to say and how you want to say it. The internet can offer even more ideas and the tutorials to accomplish your project. Don't be afraid to ask dealers if they would be willing to offer you a greater deal, if you are buying in bulk. Dealers want to sell and a lot of the items you would use for this type of project are plentiful. If a dealer believes they will sell all of their books collecting dust, I'll bet they can work out something that pleases you both.
My guess is that once you start using your words, you won't be able to stop. Get your kids involved. What's the worst thing that can happen? They might read the pages, practice spelling or give you the best idea ever. Words give us direction, tell us where we are and bring people together. Where better to use them than in your home. Express yourself and the theme of your haven with words...words...words...
Friday, October 25, 2013
Second Hand Trend...
Fashion magazines, talk shows, celebrities, basically the media, imparts to us what the up and coming crazes are or will be. Oddly enough, we attribute attraction to objects that are brand new; but, in this time of economic instability and penny pinching, antiques and vintage items are, quite literally, taking over the market and a fast growing past time for most Americans. So, with the holidays barreling towards us, let's take a look at some of the items that are quickly becoming hot items in the flea market world...
1. Interesting and Unusual Time Pieces-
We're not just talking about Dad's old watch...time pieces are all the rage right now. Yes, you can use your phone to tell time; but, a time piece says something about you. There was a time that everyone wore or carried this useful jewelry. Now, you can pick up a pocket watch or vintage Timex for half the cost, and, if you really want to make it special, you can have it engraved. A band can be replaced with colorful ribbon or sharp chain can be added to jazz it up. These make amazing gifts for a man or woman, especially if you really want them to know that you know what makes them tick.
2. Contemporary or Modern Art-
There is artwork available for anyone's budget. Obviously, if you want to start your own collection, I would highly recommend some research and shopping around for advice; but, if you are just looking to decorate your walls, what this trend is saying is, don't be afraid to mix modern with what you already own. For many, downsizing has become a way of life, so wall art is a way of saying volumes without hauling tons of furniture from place to place. It would be wonderful to have the cash to swoop up a signed painting or lithograph; but, we can't all afford that indulgence. A cool twist might be finding an unusual frame and a print from a magazine or coffee table book and hang them in a grouping on a wall that cries out to stand out from the other corners of your home or apartment. Remember, someone else's art becomes your creation on an empty wall...that is timeless.
3. Refurbished Wood Furniture-
Enough cannot be said about this trend. True wood furniture will beat out fabricated pieces, no matter how much the commercials say you need brand new. A refurbished wood piece has lasted a long time and will continue to last, if you care for it. It seems that every booth has painted, refinished or shabby chic-ed furniture. Retail for a new piece can run you into the thousands; but, that same thousand could become a new look for one room or an entire house, depending on your choices. Keep in mind, that mixing is always fun and interesting. A solid wood dining table could sport six chairs, all from different vendors, but with complementing looks. A small dresser could become a great entertainment center, with drawers for all those cords, DVDs and the nineteen remotes that your significant other cannot part with. If there is a choice between pressed, fabricated furniture and a refurbished piece, I would always choose wood.
4. China
I know you are thinking this couldn't possibly be true; but, it is undeniably on the rise. Let's face it, most of us never received more than three place settings for our wedding, and if we were to complete the set, it would take a huge bite out of our wallet. Having said this, we still like to entertain, and in the South, we value making a get together as a defining moment. There isn't a flea market that doesn't have multiple sets, often complete, of fine, bone, or vintage china. For those of you who are looking to spend even less, do what I do, I mix patterned china with colored glass pieces. You can scoop up one set of china and combine it with another. Pair it with interesting wine glasses or iced tea tumblers and your guests will be talking about you in front of you, instead of behind your back.
These are just a few of the things that you will see people flocking to, as we cross the threshold of 2014. Really, what goes out of fashion will return with a vengeance. So, your treasure goes through multiple changes over the years. The reason items are in the flea market is because they last, and that is what we are hoping for, something that lasts. Different or unusual is a good thing...march to the beat of your own drum. No matter what the craze is now, your discerning taste has the ability to create the next...second hand trend...
1. Interesting and Unusual Time Pieces-
We're not just talking about Dad's old watch...time pieces are all the rage right now. Yes, you can use your phone to tell time; but, a time piece says something about you. There was a time that everyone wore or carried this useful jewelry. Now, you can pick up a pocket watch or vintage Timex for half the cost, and, if you really want to make it special, you can have it engraved. A band can be replaced with colorful ribbon or sharp chain can be added to jazz it up. These make amazing gifts for a man or woman, especially if you really want them to know that you know what makes them tick.
2. Contemporary or Modern Art-
There is artwork available for anyone's budget. Obviously, if you want to start your own collection, I would highly recommend some research and shopping around for advice; but, if you are just looking to decorate your walls, what this trend is saying is, don't be afraid to mix modern with what you already own. For many, downsizing has become a way of life, so wall art is a way of saying volumes without hauling tons of furniture from place to place. It would be wonderful to have the cash to swoop up a signed painting or lithograph; but, we can't all afford that indulgence. A cool twist might be finding an unusual frame and a print from a magazine or coffee table book and hang them in a grouping on a wall that cries out to stand out from the other corners of your home or apartment. Remember, someone else's art becomes your creation on an empty wall...that is timeless.
3. Refurbished Wood Furniture-
Enough cannot be said about this trend. True wood furniture will beat out fabricated pieces, no matter how much the commercials say you need brand new. A refurbished wood piece has lasted a long time and will continue to last, if you care for it. It seems that every booth has painted, refinished or shabby chic-ed furniture. Retail for a new piece can run you into the thousands; but, that same thousand could become a new look for one room or an entire house, depending on your choices. Keep in mind, that mixing is always fun and interesting. A solid wood dining table could sport six chairs, all from different vendors, but with complementing looks. A small dresser could become a great entertainment center, with drawers for all those cords, DVDs and the nineteen remotes that your significant other cannot part with. If there is a choice between pressed, fabricated furniture and a refurbished piece, I would always choose wood.
4. China
I know you are thinking this couldn't possibly be true; but, it is undeniably on the rise. Let's face it, most of us never received more than three place settings for our wedding, and if we were to complete the set, it would take a huge bite out of our wallet. Having said this, we still like to entertain, and in the South, we value making a get together as a defining moment. There isn't a flea market that doesn't have multiple sets, often complete, of fine, bone, or vintage china. For those of you who are looking to spend even less, do what I do, I mix patterned china with colored glass pieces. You can scoop up one set of china and combine it with another. Pair it with interesting wine glasses or iced tea tumblers and your guests will be talking about you in front of you, instead of behind your back.
These are just a few of the things that you will see people flocking to, as we cross the threshold of 2014. Really, what goes out of fashion will return with a vengeance. So, your treasure goes through multiple changes over the years. The reason items are in the flea market is because they last, and that is what we are hoping for, something that lasts. Different or unusual is a good thing...march to the beat of your own drum. No matter what the craze is now, your discerning taste has the ability to create the next...second hand trend...
Saturday, October 19, 2013
What to Do...What to Do...
I tend to speak metaphorically...in my writing...but I thought...it might be helpful to just speak in a straightforward way for this piece...a bit of helpful advice...
You stroll around...booth to booth...finding glimmering treasures...small items...a dish here...a tablecloth...a beer stein...maybe an end table...or a chair...but nothing complete...not one whole set of...whatever...and so you think...well...maybe today isn't my day...I didn't find anything...and you may be right...or...you may not be seeing the possibilities...sometimes we get caught up in a "must be a whole package" mentality...and it's understandable...so here are some ideas...or at least thoughts...
A full set of dishes is amazing...but sometimes one dish catches your eye...many of the same would be a dream...but when there is only one...what do you do?...Things to consider...this beautiful dish becomes the resting place of your jewelry...or the spot that a scented candle burns...or it has all the colors that bring together an eclectic room...so...you hang it on the wall...in a collection of brilliant frames...
A couple of etched glasses catch your eye...well...it's not a set of eight...but then...your cousin...or boyfriend...or dad has a present day coming up (birthday, Christmas, Father's Day, promotion)...those sparkling items...along with their favorite beverage...can make a non traditional gift...that stands out in a special "wow...you really know me" sort of way...
You take a turn down an aisle with furniture pieces galore...and in the midst you see "it"...whatever "it" is...end table...buffet...sideboard...dresser...cupboard...whatever "it" is to you...you may say...well it doesn't go with everything else I have...but what if...that piece became the defining piece of a room...there is the possibility of a piece...becoming the conversation piece...that your guests talk about long after the evening is over...
I mean...if you fall in love with someone...don't you make adjustments of your life around them...in a good way...I think you do...I know I do...we all do it...The wonderful aspect of shopping second hand...is that someone loved this piece once...they tired of it...and you get to breath life into it again...make it your own...in a special way...make your imprint...and how wonderful is that?...to change an object's life...while it changes yours...
Maybe this all sounds simplistic...but it's really quite deep...I'm looking at my stack of decorating books bedside table...and my vintage necklace that I will wear tomorrow...or the collage of vintage mismatched frames over my computer...and the English tea dish with deep purple painted edging that holds my sandalwood candle...and I think...there is a fine line between fear and excitement...when I ponder...
What to do...what to do...
You stroll around...booth to booth...finding glimmering treasures...small items...a dish here...a tablecloth...a beer stein...maybe an end table...or a chair...but nothing complete...not one whole set of...whatever...and so you think...well...maybe today isn't my day...I didn't find anything...and you may be right...or...you may not be seeing the possibilities...sometimes we get caught up in a "must be a whole package" mentality...and it's understandable...so here are some ideas...or at least thoughts...
A full set of dishes is amazing...but sometimes one dish catches your eye...many of the same would be a dream...but when there is only one...what do you do?...Things to consider...this beautiful dish becomes the resting place of your jewelry...or the spot that a scented candle burns...or it has all the colors that bring together an eclectic room...so...you hang it on the wall...in a collection of brilliant frames...
A couple of etched glasses catch your eye...well...it's not a set of eight...but then...your cousin...or boyfriend...or dad has a present day coming up (birthday, Christmas, Father's Day, promotion)...those sparkling items...along with their favorite beverage...can make a non traditional gift...that stands out in a special "wow...you really know me" sort of way...
You take a turn down an aisle with furniture pieces galore...and in the midst you see "it"...whatever "it" is...end table...buffet...sideboard...dresser...cupboard...whatever "it" is to you...you may say...well it doesn't go with everything else I have...but what if...that piece became the defining piece of a room...there is the possibility of a piece...becoming the conversation piece...that your guests talk about long after the evening is over...
I mean...if you fall in love with someone...don't you make adjustments of your life around them...in a good way...I think you do...I know I do...we all do it...The wonderful aspect of shopping second hand...is that someone loved this piece once...they tired of it...and you get to breath life into it again...make it your own...in a special way...make your imprint...and how wonderful is that?...to change an object's life...while it changes yours...
Maybe this all sounds simplistic...but it's really quite deep...I'm looking at my stack of decorating books bedside table...and my vintage necklace that I will wear tomorrow...or the collage of vintage mismatched frames over my computer...and the English tea dish with deep purple painted edging that holds my sandalwood candle...and I think...there is a fine line between fear and excitement...when I ponder...
What to do...what to do...
Friday, October 11, 2013
Dealers Speak...
No matter the weather...no matter the day...flea markets are a wonderful way to fritter away your time. The larger the market...the more time you can spend searching for that just right item or the thing that tames your craving just right now. As a reformed shy and quiet individual...I would spend my hours digging, sifting, rummaging through displayed wares and vintage clothing...I found things...wonderful surprises...but it wasn't until I gathered my courage and spoke to the individuals who manned the booths that I truly brought home treasure.
Now wait a minute, you say...the person looming in the small space that has sparked my interest...is intimidating...what if they try to talk me into a purchase that I don't want to make. I understand...I hear you...The truth is dealers are there for the same reason you are...we love...love...love finding treasure. The only difference is that we have turned treasure hunting into a way of life...at the very least funding for our habit. But...most important...we dealers...we know things...about lots of things...
We have been up to our elbows in other people's toss aways...some of us have ventured across the ocean to bring back loot from other lands...We travel far...We talk with everyone...We read up and internet search...We are a fountain of knowledge...We can tell you things about wood...that would make others nod off to sleep...We can touch fabric and tell you the type and sometimes the designer...Some of us know art...some comics and memorabilia...coins...silver...gold...and vintage hats...We do this 24/7...and we are dying to share info about our wares...
You know that thing you purchased...that time...and you called your friend and gushed about the cashmere sweater...or had your buddies over for game night and turned on your vintage beer sign...or you simply folded your child's clothes and put them in your old/new dresser...the dealer you purchased from could have told you the ply on that sweater that makes you feel like a million...or how to carefully turn off and on your sign so that it doesn't break...or why the dovetailed drawers will keep that dresser in the family for years to come...We don't just want you to take interest in what drives us...everywhere...We want you to treasure your new treasure...So that we can run to another dealer's booth and have our own giddy moments...
Talking and sharing information is a waning art in our tech savvy society...but a flea market is all about talking...It's all about discovery and scoring the ungettable get...for everyone. I think you might be surprised the doors that can open for you...if you risk it all and talk to the person that you'll have to pass anyway...The worst thing that can happen is that you learn the difference between Victorian and Early American furniture...and the best...you make a contact who can help you find future ungettable gets...
Talking is vital...and it's free...We...the dealers..are going to talk anyway...We have so much random information knocking around in our heads...My guess is that some of that just might help you out...it's all about connections...exchanges...questions...do it enough...you might become one of us...you just might end up talking like us...and it all starts with you talking to us...don't worry...
...dealers speak...
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