I've been a fan of vintage and antiques as long as I can remember. Some of my favorite memories are going to Rutledge Flea Market in Northern Missouri with my grandparents. They would frequently take me with them on their Saturday outings and I never knew what would be in store for the day! Let me tell you, it was an experience. From a child's perspective this is what I saw: guns, dead animals made into shawls, clothing, dogs, toys...it was amazing. As at kid that's all I could want; strangers, weird items, the great outdoors...and my two favorite people of course!
So what's the difference between a flea market and an antique fair?
Flea Markets
Flea markets are creatures unto their own. They're filled with the most random items...and people! The vendors are as unique as their merchandise. And there's something magical about that tentative connection with another person and bonding over the same weird stuff. Also bargains. Bargains are the big takeaway here. Vendors don't often have time to stage their wares in a way that antique fair vendors do. They deal in bulk. Most profit for the most items. Hence, you as the consumer, have to do a lot of the work. Often items are dirty (bring gloves if you're squeamish) and diamonds in the rough. Flea markets don't spell it out for you; bring your imagination! Flea markets are usually outdoors, so dressing for the weather is a must. Depending on the event, you are responsible for your purchases. Meaning if you buy a big item, expect you won't get help carrying it to your vehicle.
Antique Fairs
Antique Fairs are a whole different experience. They are carefully curated, laid out, and planned for, months in advance. The vendors are usually stylists with their own shops or spaces at local antique malls. They each have their own look and unique items that are hand-selected and on-trend for your home. The thing here is the look. Each vendor booth is deigned to wow you and draw you into their space. Over-the-top design, statement piece furniture, and smaller treasures are what makes antique fair vendors different from the rest. Because of this difference, expect to pay top dollar for those pieces you really want. This is a shopping experience! Bring your friends and expect to spend the day shopping, eating, and drinking. Antique fairs are often held before the holidays and people attend solely to holiday shop, either decor or gifts. The venues are usually at fair grounds or other public event spaces indoors. Often antique fair vendors accept credit cards as well as cash. There are also people to help you to your car with big items. Expect to see big names in design there shopping or promoting their brand. There can also be entertainment such as photo booths or live music.
On the whole, both events have food, restrooms, and lots of parking. Do your research before attending an event to know what amenities are available. Depending on the event type, there might be an entrance fee as well. Flea markets are usually free or cheaper events than antique fairs.
If you're here, your probably familiar with my collaboration with Goat Hill Fair for November's antique fair. This year, GHF is November 10th-11th. They hold events every May and November. I will be attending this November's fair, so stop by and say, "hi!'. I'll be the one walking around taking tons of pictures and talking with all the vendors! Tickets for the show go on sale October 1st. All the details for the event can be found on GHF website.
For a list of highly rated flea markets in California, click here.
For antique fairs in Northern California click here.
Country Living also has a wonderful list of 26 Best Antique Shows in America.
So what's the difference between a flea market and an antique fair?
Flea Markets
Flea markets are creatures unto their own. They're filled with the most random items...and people! The vendors are as unique as their merchandise. And there's something magical about that tentative connection with another person and bonding over the same weird stuff. Also bargains. Bargains are the big takeaway here. Vendors don't often have time to stage their wares in a way that antique fair vendors do. They deal in bulk. Most profit for the most items. Hence, you as the consumer, have to do a lot of the work. Often items are dirty (bring gloves if you're squeamish) and diamonds in the rough. Flea markets don't spell it out for you; bring your imagination! Flea markets are usually outdoors, so dressing for the weather is a must. Depending on the event, you are responsible for your purchases. Meaning if you buy a big item, expect you won't get help carrying it to your vehicle.
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| Rutledge Flea Market, Rutledge Missouri--photo credit unknown |
Antique Fairs are a whole different experience. They are carefully curated, laid out, and planned for, months in advance. The vendors are usually stylists with their own shops or spaces at local antique malls. They each have their own look and unique items that are hand-selected and on-trend for your home. The thing here is the look. Each vendor booth is deigned to wow you and draw you into their space. Over-the-top design, statement piece furniture, and smaller treasures are what makes antique fair vendors different from the rest. Because of this difference, expect to pay top dollar for those pieces you really want. This is a shopping experience! Bring your friends and expect to spend the day shopping, eating, and drinking. Antique fairs are often held before the holidays and people attend solely to holiday shop, either decor or gifts. The venues are usually at fair grounds or other public event spaces indoors. Often antique fair vendors accept credit cards as well as cash. There are also people to help you to your car with big items. Expect to see big names in design there shopping or promoting their brand. There can also be entertainment such as photo booths or live music.
 |
| Goat Hill Fair--photo credit unknown |
If you're here, your probably familiar with my collaboration with Goat Hill Fair for November's antique fair. This year, GHF is November 10th-11th. They hold events every May and November. I will be attending this November's fair, so stop by and say, "hi!'. I'll be the one walking around taking tons of pictures and talking with all the vendors! Tickets for the show go on sale October 1st. All the details for the event can be found on GHF website.
For a list of highly rated flea markets in California, click here.
For antique fairs in Northern California click here.
Country Living also has a wonderful list of 26 Best Antique Shows in America.
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