The following tips were written and submitted by the lovely Heather Bullard, contributing editor with the magazine. Heather graciously shares all that she has learned along the way as an astute collector, antiques dealer, and fellow Flea Marketeer!!
With flea market season in full bloom in most parts of the country, I thought I'd give you some of my tips on how to shop like a pro. These are just a few things I've learned along the way. No one's claiming to be an expert here, just a very well seasoned veteran. I hope it might encourage some of you newbies to give flea marketing a try. So, here's a few of my basic tips:
1. Cash is king. It's accepted by all dealers. Don't worry, they'll take it and there's no need for that pesky credit approval. Some may take a check but I would never count on it. And bring some small bills, they usually don't like breaking hundreds at 6am.
2. Dress in layers. Mornings may be cool but the sun gets up early and it's easy to lose track of time while you're on the hunt. Also remember your sunglasses, sunscreen and a hat.
3. Pack water and snacks -because shopping makes you thirsty and hungry and you never reallyknow what's in the food they sell! Although... I have been known to buy a pretzel and I'm still kickin'.
4. Bring your tools. Things like a tape measure and magnet can come in handy especially if you really want to bring home something like this:
...and you're not quite sure it/they will fit in your dining room, let alone your front door. Magnets are great if you're collecting silver because if it's sterling silver the magnet won't stick. Good to know when bargaining.
5. Keep a small notebook. Just a nice purse sized notebook will do. Use it to make a list of pieces you're looking for, what you paid for an item, a dealers name or perhaps another place they might sell, such as a storefront or antique show.
6. Buy what you love. Figure out where you'll put it when you get it home. If you really love an item, pick it up because the chances are it won't be there if you come back for it. I've learned this one the hard way. Trust me, die hard flea marketers always talk about the ones that got away.
7. Be polite, because nice matters. When negotiating a price for an item, a friend of mine usually asks the dealer, "Is this your friendliest price"? I've seen her in action and believe me, the dealers always smile! Don't be afraid to ask questions, I've learned so much over the years just by striking up a conversation.
8. Educate yourself. If you're wanting to start collecting specific items such as Limoges demitasse cups, antique French linens or English ironstone, learning about them can save you lots of money. Ebay is a great place to check prices or you can do an internet search to find more information about a specific piece.
9. Prepare your vehicle. Toss in a blanket or two, some newspapers and a box or crate to help wrap and secure small items. And make sure you have a full tank of gas and a map or navigation. Another one of those lessons learned!
1. Cash is king. It's accepted by all dealers. Don't worry, they'll take it and there's no need for that pesky credit approval. Some may take a check but I would never count on it. And bring some small bills, they usually don't like breaking hundreds at 6am.
2. Dress in layers. Mornings may be cool but the sun gets up early and it's easy to lose track of time while you're on the hunt. Also remember your sunglasses, sunscreen and a hat.
3. Pack water and snacks -because shopping makes you thirsty and hungry and you never reallyknow what's in the food they sell! Although... I have been known to buy a pretzel and I'm still kickin'.
4. Bring your tools. Things like a tape measure and magnet can come in handy especially if you really want to bring home something like this:
...and you're not quite sure it/they will fit in your dining room, let alone your front door. Magnets are great if you're collecting silver because if it's sterling silver the magnet won't stick. Good to know when bargaining.
5. Keep a small notebook. Just a nice purse sized notebook will do. Use it to make a list of pieces you're looking for, what you paid for an item, a dealers name or perhaps another place they might sell, such as a storefront or antique show.
6. Buy what you love. Figure out where you'll put it when you get it home. If you really love an item, pick it up because the chances are it won't be there if you come back for it. I've learned this one the hard way. Trust me, die hard flea marketers always talk about the ones that got away.
7. Be polite, because nice matters. When negotiating a price for an item, a friend of mine usually asks the dealer, "Is this your friendliest price"? I've seen her in action and believe me, the dealers always smile! Don't be afraid to ask questions, I've learned so much over the years just by striking up a conversation.
8. Educate yourself. If you're wanting to start collecting specific items such as Limoges demitasse cups, antique French linens or English ironstone, learning about them can save you lots of money. Ebay is a great place to check prices or you can do an internet search to find more information about a specific piece.
9. Prepare your vehicle. Toss in a blanket or two, some newspapers and a box or crate to help wrap and secure small items. And make sure you have a full tank of gas and a map or navigation. Another one of those lessons learned!
And last but certainly not least,
10. Bring a cart! This has saved me countless times, and even if you don't shop often, lugging a giant mirror or shelf to your car isn't any fun. If you only plan to shop for small items, a nice tote with a long strap helps because it keeps your hands free.
Most of all, enjoy yourself, and remember it's supposed to be fun! Remember that there's plenty for everyone and you're helping the environment by going vintage. Remember that it's not the end of the world if you don't get that piece you really wanted. Indeed, there will be more incredible bargains just around the corner!
10. Bring a cart! This has saved me countless times, and even if you don't shop often, lugging a giant mirror or shelf to your car isn't any fun. If you only plan to shop for small items, a nice tote with a long strap helps because it keeps your hands free.
Most of all, enjoy yourself, and remember it's supposed to be fun! Remember that there's plenty for everyone and you're helping the environment by going vintage. Remember that it's not the end of the world if you don't get that piece you really wanted. Indeed, there will be more incredible bargains just around the corner!
**all images courtesy, Heather Bullard
10 comments:
Sunscreen and/or a hat and comfortable walking shoes too.
Absolutely, P.J. It is all about the shoes!!!
I've had the most fun when I'm with a one or more friends... we compare notes... bounce off each other... create a memory, and share in the enthusiasm! Great tips!
We have two great flea markets every Saturday where I live. I've often wondered why so many dealers don't put price tags on their stuff? If they are helping another customer or have stepped away from their booth, I often just go on because I have no clue whether the item is in my budget. They might be asking $5 or $50. If my husband is with me, he doesn't have the patience to wait all day while I find out the price to know if I can even consider buying.
Good response from Callef - it's good for us dealers to be aware of our customers pet peeves, likes and disklikes. Thanks!
Great list! I had forgotten about the magnet trick. Thanks!
Love the magnet trick!!
Had no idea about sterling silver. Thanks for the tip.
Wonderful advice - I'm headed to my first Phoenix valley flea market next week - plan to take a boatload of pics and not buy a whole lot - dragging the whole family for a little fun time.
I am in Portland, OR and sooooo desperately want to go flea marketing, but the only ones I know of just sell cheaply made t-shirts, jewelry, etc., not treasures! Anybody know of one in Oregon?
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