// DO // Have a plan of what you want to buy. Flea markets such as at the Rosebowl and Long Beach (my favorite) can be overwhelming. A wedding journal is a perfect place to write down tidbits of information that can also be looked back at as great memories spent together.
//In or Out Media//
// DO // Look for things that will complement the design of your wedding; maybe a pair of fantastic chairs for the cocktail reception or a chipped paint door with the original handle to complement the dessert table. You never know what you will find out there so keep your eyes peeled!
//Style Me Pretty//
// DO // Recognize that prices are not set in stone. If there is a particular piece that you want to buy (that you could live without) take another lap around the market and come back to it closer to closing time. Vendors are more apt to offer a bargain when they are packing up shop.
//Chic Provence Blog//
// DO // Look for small items that can bring the style together and add character. Small candle holders, postcards, photos, bottles, etc. can add to the ambiance and encourage the overall wedding vision. Larger items can always be rented if you don’t have a place for them in your home afterwards. Here @ WINK! we have a number of awesome vendors to choose from!
//Green Wedding Shoes//
// DON’T // Buy things at random that you won’t know what to do with. Sometimes there is a cool item that you like – but if you aren’t sure what purpose it will serve it’s better to leave it be than to create clutter.
//Paris Photography on Etsy//
// DON’T // Believe everything you hear – reproductions run rampant in today’s antique market so make sure you are getting an authentic piece (use Google from your phone to look up pricing and authentic markers).
//Lake Island Girl on Etsy//
// DON’T // Forget reusable bags and a small cart or even a wagon. Trust me, it will be a lifesaver to not have to lug a larger item around for the rest of the day!
//Jeanne Oliver Designs//
// DON’T // Forget that it is all about having fun! Look for things that can complement your wedding AND new home so that you don’t have excess that you won’t be able to use or giveaway.
// FLEA MARKETS // Here are some recommendations for fantastic flea markets between LA and San Diego:
Long Beach Flea, Veteran’s Stadium: third Sunday of each month (and 5th Sunday’s!), large flea market with lots of great finds!
Rosebowl Flea Market, Pasadena: second Sunday of each month, HUGE flea market with unique vendors
Old Towne Orange Flea Market: second Saturday of each month, small market but doesn’t disappoint!
The Groves Antique Market at the Irvine Great Park: first Sunday of each month, combined with their fantastic farmer’s market
San Diego Vintage Flea Market: second Sunday of each month, free admission and dogs welcome
Patchwork Show, various cities : Held twice a year, not a REAL flea market, but adorable handmade goods and antique mix
//Chic Provence//
XO
Rachel
