I am a huge fan of planning. After attending many of the huge antique shows in Mount Dora, thrifting for hidden treasures, and picking at local architectural salvage stores, I've learned that there are certain things I need to plan ahead for. By doing these things, my shopping trips are more enjoyable, and I am less likely to have to leave behind treasures that I later regret not snagging.
So, with that said, here are just a few tips that I think will come in handy when you shop at the Funky Art & Vintage Mart, and any other similar shows in the future.
1. Dress appropriately. That lovely, rusty old garden gate, that will look gorgeous displayed on your front porch, will possible leave behind a not-so-lovely rust stain on the favorite shirt you are wearing. Don't wear your favorite shirt, or things that could snag or catch on pointy parts, metal, etc. Wear comfy shoes that you won't trip with, and you can easily carry furniture in.
2. Bring wet wipes for your hands. Keep some in your handbag and your car. Also, bring a measuring tape (see # 5) and some old bed sheets or towels to protect your car and your treasures on your way back home. I also keep tissue paper and/or some bubble wrap for securing smaller treasures. Newspapers work too, but may leave behind toner/ink residue on some surfaces.
3. Bring something to drink, & snacks if you need them. You don't REALLY want to shop until you drop! Our show will have food vendors, thankfully, but I always keep a stash of granola bars or nuts on hand to snack on.
4. A metal hand-pulled shopping cart....I am torn on these. Sometimes I love having one with me, especially if I am not parked particularly close enough to make trips to the car with my treasures. Be aware though, that these make it harder to maneuver in and out of booths and the crowd. Be kind and make sure you aren't blocking other shoppers from looking at something or entering a seller's booth. While we are talking about kindness, please don't stand in a booth and gab on your phone or text a novel to a friend. Other's want to look at the offerings in the booth, and you are blocking them from doing so. Take your conversation out of the booth and off to the side.
5. Measure the wall space or floor space you are shopping for. Also, know the size of your trunk space in your vehicle. If you know what size of side tables would fit on either side of your bed, or what size of painting you want to hang over your couch, this will be VERY HELPFUL. Also take pictures of your rooms with your phone's camera for reference. Bring fabric or paint samples along with you to match your color palette.
6. Make a list of specific items you are looking for. I know that I am easily distracted, and sometimes need a reminder of my shopping "goal." This way, you don't drive all the way home and realize that, while that garden decoration you bought is super cool, you totally forgot to look for some antique drawer knobs for a dresser you've been planning to refresh.
7. If you REALLY LOVE something, GET IT! Otherwise, someone else will. I say this from experience. I still have regrets over pieces I should have just bought....a rusty metal Christmas tree, a robin egg blue metal cake holder, a large vintage advertising sign, a gorgeous antique Victorian era baby dress....you get the point.
I hope these words of advice come in handy! I want everyone to have a great time at the show, and take home something special! Have a great weekend, and stop back soon for another vendor showcase!
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