It is that time again ...

antique clocks 

If it's May then it must be time for the Brimfield Antique Show!  For some people April showers bring May flowers but for me, the warm days of May tell me that it is time to dust off my shopping cart and head out to Brimfield in search of some treasure!

vintage spools

Almost anything can be found at the Brimfield Antique Show.  Some people say that if you can't find it here then you are not going to find it anywhere!  Brimfield is the largest antique market in the country.  It features approximately 6000 dealers in over 23 fields.  There is something for everyone here and you don't need a purse filled with cash to enjoy yourself either.  The people watching alone is worth the drive but don't stop just at people watching come out to search for fine antiques or vintage ephemera - it really is a "must-do" at least once!

Silhouette of Woman

Silhouette of Man

I have found some of my most treasured pieces in the fields of Brimfield especially if you go with an idea of what you want for your home.  For first timers,  the scope of the show can be completely overwhelming.  Where do you look first?  How do you navigate the endless booths of things? It is easy - really.  Before you set out for Brimfield, take stock of your decorating needs.  In a small notebook write down your wish list of items you hope to find.  Make notations of size constraints or color choices that appeal to you. With this notebook in hand, you will be able to expertly navigate through the stuff that you want versus the stuff that is not on your list.  It is like putting blinders on a horse - you have to get to your destination without all the distraction and maybe you will be rewarded with those antique his and her silhouettes that you've been coveting!

antique urns and candlesticks

Bring cash (a lot or a little) it makes the difference between a good deal and a great deal.  You can use a credit card at most booths but cash is definitely king and helps you in the bargaining department.  You need cash for parking and for food.  Most of the fields are free admission with the exception of some of the more popular fields like J & J which draws a crowd looking for fine antiques.  Many dealers are at this field bright and early to get some of the best deals of the day.  And speaking of dealers - don't dress like one!  Dress in casual, comfortable and scruffy clothes and that might just get you a better price break.

egg basket

One of my all time favorite finds did not cost an arm and a leg.  It was my vintage egg basket that I use for EVERYTHING!  It is one of my favorite photo props and when it is not working in the studio, it holds my lemons in the kitchen.  When it is collapsed - it makes the most beautiful piece of wall art that you could imagine.  Hard working - indeed!  Don't overlook the small things because they just might become your favorite thing of all.  Remember that once you bring your treasure home, the item will take on a completely different look as it nestles in to your home decor.

trays and urns

Did you know that many of your favorite stores and catalogs find their props at the Brimfield show?  They do.  The next time Pottery Barn's catalog appears in your mail box pay close attention to the props that they use throughout the pages.  Better yet - look at their products and you will find that many of their items have been "inspired" by vintage objects found at shows just like Brimfield.  Why not go out and get inspired yourself?  Create your own look and your own vibe - it is easy, fun and can be done inexpensively.

salvage

Many of us are drawn to items that have a patina.  Old and crusty is not going away!  It can be used in your home whether you decorate in a traditional manner or in a contemporary manner.  You only need to  let your imagination go - a wire or wicker basket can be made into a wonderful lighting accessory.  Salvaged sconces without their wiring can make the most beautiful candle holders.  Ladders of all sizes and shapes look great indoors as side tables or magazine/ blanket racks.  

little bunny

Garden statuary of all sizes abounds at the show as does vintage ephemera like letters, postcards and maps.  Beautiful handwriting makes gorgeous artwork for your wall - put it in a frame and voila - instant art.

antique stools

Another favorite photo prop of mine are these little stools.  I use them throughout my home to hold books and little vignettes.  They look great under sofa tables for a shot of texture and look great on top of tables to hold flowers or platters of food.  

100 year old urns from Turkey

Great Stuff by Paul has a booth at the show.  It is one of my favorite stops for antique urns (I collect them).  You will find a booth that features whatever you collect - I am sure of it.  One of my favorite things to do is to see just what makes other people excited.  What do they gravitate to and what is their must have item?  You will see some of the funniest things/treasures sticking out of people's baskets.  To each his own - that is just about the joy of it all.  

garden treasure

Grab a friend or two or twelve and head on out to The Brimfield Antique Show the week of May 10-15.  

Our group grows each year.  We meet at a local spot and caravan out to the show.  Each of us takes off in a different direction and then we all meet up for lunch at a designated spot to discuss our finds.  We have had more laughs and more fun during this time and what better way to spend a day?

I hope to see you there ~

Ellen