Design expert, Michael Ostrow, shares his tips and tricks on navigating flea markets as he guides Heidi Klum through one of the nation’s largest flea markets, the Rose Bowl, in Los Angeles. Ostrow suggests following these simple guidelines to finding great hidden treasures:
- Visit the Flea Market early to get the best selection
- Have pen and paper to note items you like and record where you’ve been
- Brining a digital camera helps you remember what you’ve already seen in case you want to go back
- Simple tools like a measuring tape will help you note the dimensions of larger pieces that can fit your home
- If you’re visiting the Flea Market with friends, establish a meeting spot at a certain time incase you get separated
- Understand the basics when it comes to items that are “Antiques and items that are “Vintage.” Ostrow says “Antiques are considered over 100 years old, while Vintage items can be 5 to 99 years old.”
- Ask the seller if they are amenable to a discount if you bundle items in a purchase from them
- Be sure to look high and low when visiting the merchants areas, sometimes smaller things can be missed if they’re sitting behind larger items
- Maintaing your focus is important, having a clear mind will help you avoid brining home any “trash”
- Have Fun!
It’s easy to get lost in a crowded flea market. Having a cell phone with you or choosing a meeting place if you get separated from your group makes good common sense.