By Amy Eggers
One of Del Ray’s favorite traditions is the monthly Del Ray Vintage & Flea Market, which takes place the second Saturday of the month from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the intersection of Mt. Vernon & Bellefonte Avenues. What started five years ago as a small pop-up event in The Wellness Junction parking lot has grown into one of the top-rated flea markets in the state! Here, Del Ray Vintage Flea Market Co-Founder & Market Manager Amy Eggers shares her top five tips for making the most of a day at the flea market:
- Birds of a Feather: Early vs. Late: The early bird really does get the worm! Arriving right at 9:00 a.m. or even slightly before means you’ll have the pick of the crop. However, if you’ve got a loose shopping list and are looking for incredible bargains, you’ll have more luck coming late and catching vendors who’d rather sell low than haul inventory home.
- Tools of the Trade: Bring plenty of reusable bags for your purchases! If you’re looking for larger items, have a plan for transport or ask the seller if they can offer delivery. If you’re on a specific hunt, note the dimensions and take a few photos to see if something will fit in a room or within your decor scheme. And always bring plenty of cash (though many vendors will now be able to take credit cards), sunblock, water, and measuring tape!
- “I love it when a plan comes together…” Upon arrival at the market, make a plan! One of the biggest mistakes you can make when flea market shopping is overbuying and missing out on a great item because of reaching your spending limit too soon. When you first arrive, survey the booths to get a lay of the land; take a few notes or pictures of the big items that catch your eye, even get the seller’s information. Then, start at the beginning and work your way back through the market. If you see something you want to think about for a bit, write a note to remind you of its location and get the seller’s contact information if they’re willing to provide it.
- Better Bargainer’s Bureau: Part of the experience of flea-market shopping is the “art of the barter.” Without a doubt, you’ll find better deals by being nice. Ask the vendor if they can “do any better” on the price or if they could take a few dollars off if you buy more than one item from them. Don’t point out flaws or balk about value, then expect them to lower the price. It’s more effective to respect the item’s value and the seller’s time than to try to quibble the price down to the last penny.
- Don’t Be Too Hasty! Real experts can spot a diamond in the rough. You can too, if you remember to look at an item based on its characteristics instead of its first impression. Look at the item’s shape, texture, color, and scale. If two or more of these appeal to you, the rest can usually be altered or refurbished until that item meets your ideal.
Amy Eggars (Courtesy photo) - Amy Eggars (Courtesy photo)
The next Del Ray Vintage & Flea Market takes place on Saturday, August 10, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the intersection of Mt. Vernon & Bellefonte Avenues — learn more at delrayvintageflea.com. Can’t wait until the next market? Del Ray has two amazing vintage & antique shops — Magpie Reclamations (202 E Custis Ave) and La Brocante (1904 Mt Vernon Ave.).
ICYMI: The Hotlist: Where to Volunteer in Alexandria
