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...