Let's Make a Deal! Plus KANE and ALLEGAN News

Asking for a deal at the flea market is kind of like asking for a date -- it helps to be confident, polite and possibly funny, but you still have to be prepared to take "no" for an answer.


But to increase your chances of hearing "yes," here's a few tips:

You can generally assume that dealers will allow a 10 percent discount on items that cost more than $10 unless the price is marked "firm."

Try asking, "Are you firm on this?" but don't suggest a price -- leave that to the seller. I'm often surprised when a buyer suggests a price higher than what I would have offered. You can always counter-offer.

Multiple items purchased from the same seller often equal a lower price, so don't forget to try,"If I take these three, would you be able to offer a discount?" or "What if I took all of these?"

Avoid playing games, such as feigning disinterest. That's just annoying. And don't point out flaws; our merch is like our kids -- we know what problems are there, but we love the stuff any way (and assume you do, too, or you wouldn't be asking in the first place!)

Good luck! Actually, I'll do you one better -- come and try out your skills in our booth THIS WEEKEND at the Kane County Flea Market. We have a terrific load, including vintage clothes, feedsacks, fall projects, graphics, industrial pieces, furniture, containers and smalls. Details are just a click away on the show sidebar. And you'll probably get a "yes" from me!

Allegan Update

We were a little alarmed by some lake-effect rain during set-up, but Sunday was clear and cool, as promised. There was a good crowd, but people were more laid-back -- you could tell it was the last show of the season. We were pleased by our sales at the end of the day and enjoyed chatting with customers and seeing some of our blogging buddies. Now we just have to wait 'til next year! Boo. xo