Flea Market Harvest

Things I have NO shame in: infertility and shopping at flea markets. As a lover of all things rustic, I spend a few weekends per summer perusing dirt and gravel filled lots, seeking the perfect this and that, with the perfect charm, at the perfect (negotiated) price. 

Today's flea market harvest was one of my best yet! I am in the process of designing our Parisian themed guest bedroom and went out on a mission to find some decorative accessories that wouldn't break the bank. I set out with $100 in my pocket and came home with $70. 

Here's the breakdown:

- Large distressed burlap pin board [ $5 ]

- Distressed metal bird cage photo/memorabilia holder [ $5 ]

- Large parisian themed distressed wooden box [ $6 ]

- Two 5x7 shabby chic frames [ $4 ]

- Vintage paris journal [ $1 ]

- Three nestable chalkboard storage boxes [ $9 ]

  Total Spend: $30.00

As a verteran flea market shopper, I've learned a few tips and tricks along the way to make for a great harvest...and now they are yours (down below). Enjoy!

Flea Market Shopping Tips:

1. Have a Plan and an Open Mind

Feal market shopping can be overwhelming. Always arrive with a list of wants and needs, to keep temptations to buy everything else at bay. While it's important to keep an organized focus, it's also equally important to keep an open mind, and your eyes peeled for possibilities. Sometimes something you wouldn't expect will help you accomplish a certain look or purpose, even if it's not on your list.  

2. Be Selective - If in Doubt, Don't

Look for pieces that you truly love. It's very easy to over-shop when you're surrounded by so many affordable things, but snatching up every single cute find and good deal will turn you into a hoarder rather than a collector. Say no to the "I kind of like this", "pretty cute" things, and splurge on things that have personality and versatility.     

3. Bring Cash, Keep it Small and Keep it Hidden

Non-common retail, means non-common electronic payment options. Cash is king at flea markets for two very important reasons...negotiating power and sticking to your budget. Before arriving, set a budget, take out cash and break it into smaller bills. Why the small bills? For the same reason you should never pull out your money in front of vendors...larger bills or a visible stack of cash tells a vendor you have money to spend, which will hurt your price negotiations. It's also not uncommon for vendors to (purposefully) not have change to break your larger bills, resulting in you having to pay a higher price for an item you may not want to walk away from. Keep your negotiating power by keeping your bills small and your money hidden. 

4. Don't Show Too Much Interest

Found a piece you absolutely love? Keep your cool! If a vendor can sense your overzealous excitement, they may inflate the asking price of the item. 

5. Don't Buy Impulsively

Buying on impulse at a flea market can be dangerous. Most vendors accept cash only, and once you make a purchase, all sales are final. Don't give in to the fear that if you don't buy an item immediately, you'll be giving up a one-of-a-kind deal to someone else. For generic items, many vendors carry similar, if not the same products, so browse multiple vendors and compare prices before making a purchase. 

6. Never Pay Asking Price

Almost all vendors at flea markets are not only willing to negotiate prices, they expect to. As a rookie thrift shopper, you may feel wierd asking a vendor for a deal, but the reality is, if you don't ask, you don't get. After inquiring about the asking price of an item, always attempt to haggle within reason. This means avoiding a completely lowball offer, as it can come off offensive and make a vendor less inclined to give you a price break. The rule of thumb is offering a little more than half of the vendors asking price. Asking $10? Offer $6. If necessary, agree to $7 or $8. For items under $20, I am also known to pull the "but i only have $10 left on me" line with great success. 

7. Timing is Everything (Sometimes)

While I do enjoy getting to the flea market early to browse before it gets crowded, sometimes saving your browsing or delaying a purchase until afternoon can land you a better deal. Vendors are typically ready to start packing up at 1/2PM and may be more inclined to offer a better deal to avoid taking items back home, and up their end of day profits. In other cases, the early bird gets the worm.

8. It's OK to Leave Empty Handed

Don't buy something, just to buy it. It's totally ok to leave empty handed if nothing strikes your fancy. Save your money for items that are most special to you. 

Hope you find these tips helpful! Happy flea market harvesting!