1. Wear comfortable (closed-toe) shoes.
We can't stress this enough, since you're likely to be on your feet all day. The fairgrounds certainly aren't small and without proper footwear, the winding dirt paths can do a number on your pedicure.
2. Bring a city shopping cart or reusable shopping bags.
We think this is a fairly obvious one, but bringing a portable means to carry your purchases through the market will cut down on trips back to the car.
3. Don't be afraid to ask for a seller's "best price."
Nicole had a great example for this one: "There was a trunk for sale a couple years ago and it was priced as $75. I was prepared to say 'Would you accept $60?' but my mom told me to ask for 'the best price.' I got the trunk for $40."
4. And don't be afraid to walk away.
If the price isn't right or a seller isn't being responsive, don't be afraid to walk away. Nine times out of 10, they'll say "I can do better!" And if they don't, maybe it just wasn't meant to be.
5. Pack a lunch
This is for serious shoppers -- there are food trucks concentrated in one location (by the main road) and the options tend to be... well, fair food. If you're looking for an alternative to fried -- anything -- pack a lunch and eat on the go. (Lunch? That's for amateurs! Not even food can slow us down!)
6. Don't know what to buy? Start a collection.
If you're not in the market for anything in particular, consider starting a collection. Nicole collects vintage soda pop bottles -- relatively inexpensive items(most pop bottles run $2-$8 a piece at a fair like Brimfield) that look great when displayed in a group.
7. If you like a seller, get their contact information.
If you find a vendor that carries a lot of items that you're interested in, grab their card or contact information. If you ever regret walking away from that perfect find, you can reach out to them and it's likely that they'll be back at Brimfield next season.
8. Ask dealers about their products.
If you have no idea what you're buying, ask the vendor. Most of the time, vendors will be experts on what they're selling and can give you insight into their wares.
9. Another obvious one that people tend to forget: bring water!
Stay hydrated!
10. And finally, arrive early.
There's no way you'll be able to see everything in one day but you might as well get a jump start.
Happy hunting!
Did you go to Brimfield this year? Or in years past? Submit your finds, tips, and stories here!
