Monday, October 11, 2010

Fun at the flea

Over the weekend, I joined my parents and brother for a road trip to the Shenandoah Antiques Expo in Fishersville, VA.



We’d never attended this twice yearly flea market, so the sheer size of exhibit space stunned us. In addition to four buildings, over 100 booths were also set up outside. We quickly discovered that the “real” antiques with the real big price tags were located inside the buildings, while the fun and much more affordable “junk” was outside.

I seriously could have snapped photos in nearly every booth, but that would have cut into my treasure hunting. I did manage to capture a few cool items.


I love the shabby paint job on this chunky dresser. Although white paint will always be my first love, I’m really digging the washed out greens, blues, and greys that lend a beachy vibe.


OK, this porch swing needs a serious paint strip and a fun new stain or color, but how cool is it? I’ve never seen anything quite like it. I could instantly imagine myself curled up on the porch on a fall day with a mug of cider and a good book.


My mom is smiling because she snagged this awesome cabinet. I love everything about it from the blue/grey paint and bead board backing, to the wavy glass and porcelain knobs. The $300 price tag wasn’t shabby either! She’s going to use it to store linens outside her new bathroom.

I didn’t walk away empty handed either - shocker, I know!


The price tag calls it a sage fall gathering basket. I call it gorgeous! The dealer had it marked down from $22 to $5. The best part? In one of the buildings, a basket in a similar color and size was priced at $700! I don’t know if Martha Washington wove that basket or what, but it made me doubly pleased at my five buck treasure!


I also picked up some supplies for fun necklaces. I couldn’t resist a lucky number 7 key and pretty vintage beads.


Finally, I caved and bought more fall decorating supplies. The gourds were only a buck each, and the mini pumpkin was .50 cents, so I don't feel too bad.

I’ve already put the basket and gourds to work in the roost, so stay tuned for a simple fall arrangement, coming soon to a blog near you!

What’s the best deal you’ve ever scored at a flea market? I love a good bargain story!

<3
Hattie

3 comments:

Tracy's mom said...

Hattie, you are cracking me up with your Martha Washington comment.
I love that blue dresser you opened your post with. I've never seen anything quite like that.
Looks like you had a great time!

The Sisters 4 say MORE is more said...

I love the flea market! I just wish they had some around here where I live.
~Sophie
ps~
I found the cutest vintage boots at a flea market in CA once for maybe 4 dollars... wore them yesterday:)

Tracy said...

Oooh- good find for your mama! And I love those keys!! We should go fleaing sometime together- what fun!