Shopping with a pro

Learn to search for treasures at antiques markets with confidence and avoid costly mistakes. Our experts share important tips and interior design advice.

Shopping's supposed to be easy, right? You spend money and buy beautiful things. It's not always that simple, though, especially at large antiques markets where you can feel overwhelmed by the selection. That's why we've consulted the pros to tell us how to buy and then use those pieces to create stylish and unique interiors.

Join our experts, Janie Moister and Deborah Valentine of Moister Valentine Interiors in Richmond, at Scott Antique Market in Atlanta, one of our favorite shopping venues. Follow their advice, and soon you'll feel like a pro.

The Preliminaries

"Shopping at these markets is pressured buying; you can't return it, so be prepared," advises Janie.

* Take a notebook of measurements and paint colors or fabric swatches; bring a tape measure. Don't forget obscure measurements, such as the height of the wall from the mantel to the ceiling (in case you find that perfect mirror). And know your ceiling heights.

* Bring cash and checks. Most dealers don't accept credit cards.

* Consider visiting the market a couple of times before making purchases. You can feel better about buying from established, reputable dealers who come back regularly. They see the same clientele and want to keep them happy. A preliminary visit is also a chance to get a feel for the layout and type of merchandise offered.

* When timing your visit, consider your needs. If you're looking for great bargains on a variety of items, then you may want to go on the last day of the show. Some vendors may be willing to take less because they don't want to reload everything. If you're looking for a particular item or unique piece, then consider heading out early on the first day. That's when most designers shop-sometimes purchasing things as they're unloaded. No.

At the Show

* If you like something, but don't like the price, make an offer. Don't even hesitate. Dealers expect to bargain and usually plan a built-in margin with which to negotiate. And ask questions about the item's age, condition, etc.

* Don't be distracted by the existing fabric on a piece. Look at the frame of the item to see if you like the shape. Rock the chair to make sure it's sturdy; pull out drawers to see if they work.

* Before making a purchase, consider other expenses that might be involved in making it yours-reupholstering, wiring a light fixture, or refinishing.

* Not everything that looks antique is. There's a whole lot of new furniture that has been painted and distressed to look old. If age is important, then examine the areas where it would wear naturally to tell if it's old or not.

Back Home

Antiques and flea market finds give interiors a unique character. "In a new home, it's especially important to include old and new," says Janie. "You want to have a mix of age, character, and patina for a better blended look.

"The bones of a room-wall color, window treatments, and the style of upholstered pieces-should be classic and streamlined," recommend Janie and Deborah. "It's a lot easier to bring in a pair of Victorian armchairs if the sofa is tailored. Don't worry about mixing styles. If they work, then put a French chair with an Italian table."

In the Quartermans' living room in Atlanta, the designers chose a pale blue for the walls, a perfect backdrop for the white upholstered chairs and gray-toned velvet sofa and chaise. The draperies' camel-and-white tones and the neutral wool-and-sisal-blend rug help create a foundation for the antiques-a white armoire, mirror-- topped table, outdoor Victorian chairs, and three pieces of French furniture.

Armed with this great advice, you'll be more confident at the next market and probably empty those pockets. So here's a bit of wisdom: Even pros keep tabs on their bank balances. Shopping, anyone?

ALICE WELSH DOYLE

Copyright Southern Progress Corporation Spring 2002
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