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Bespoke. Handmade. Curated. One-Of-A-Kind.
Whatever you call it, chances are you’ll find it at Vintage Market Days happening this weekend at Merriam Town Center. After a two-year absence, the old-school-meets-new-school market is back with over 100 local and national artists and designers. “Vendors are so thrilled because so many events this year have been canceled,” says co-owner Rosemary Salerno. “For our vendors, this is their livelihood. We’ve heard nothing but positive feedback.”
With the nation slowly but surely getting back to normal, Salerno was concerned about the efficacy of the shop-tastic event (October 23 – 25th). She decided to move forward when she saw the success and safety protocols other sister Vintage Market Days were having around the country. “People are following the rules. Oklahoma, Texas, Nevada—they’ve all seen record ticket sales. There’s pent-up demand to buy gifts—whether that’s for yourself or for others,” says Salerno. “Along the way, we’ve had to rethink what this event looks like—and safety is our primary concern for vendors, customers, and employees.”
“60,000 Feet To Spread Out and Shop”
Early on, Salerno knew she found the perfect locale for Vintage Market Days at Merriam Town Center. “We have an enormous space there. 60,000 square feet to spread out and shop. We’re essentially using all the space—with giant, wide aisles and vendors spaced out for social distancing,” she says. “Everyone is required to wear masks at all times. Plus, we’ll have sanitizing stations, frequent deep cleaning. Our motto? ‘Just be nice and stay in your space.’”
The event’s theme is aptly named Spruced. “2020 has been a year of sprucing up our homes and ourselves. Of course, it has a double meaning. Spruce can also mean Christmas and I’m a holiday junkie,” Salerno says with a laugh. “With Christmas right around the corner, we’ll have fall and holiday accoutrements—along with all the other unique items.”
With handpicked vendors coming in from all over the country, Salerno says get ready for a unique spin on everything from home décor to architectural salvage to fashion. “You know what I tell people? It’s West Bottoms-esque—but on a bigger scale with more variety. You’re not going to find many of these curated items anywhere else.”
When asked what sort of items guests will discover, Salerno quips, “How much time you got?” Along with bespoke furniture and vintage jewelry, Salerno says to look for “books that have been upcycled into candles and other unique objects. There are some cool handmade trunks available. Plus, you’ll spy some mod-fashion boutiques, with a couple of vendors featuring all-vintage clothing.”
“Funk’d Up and Upcycled”
If you’re looking solely for garden-variety antiques, Vintage Market Days might not be the right outlet for you. “Our artists like to take something and make it into something more appealing,” says Salerno. “Everything here is funk’d up and upcycled. These are not your momma’s antiques.”
A bevy of food trucks will be on hand in the parking lot for guests to nosh alongside their power shopping. Patrons will also be treated to live music performances throughout the day. “It’s an event. An experience. The whole shebang,” says Salerno. “You can shop for your best friend or your best friend’s pet. From local lavender farms to exquisite felt crafts, there’s something for everyone.”
Want a VIP experience? Salerno says to pre-purchase your ticket. “The first 50 pre-purchased ticketholders through the doors will receive a swag bag with gift cards and coupons each day,” says Salerno. “Plus, your ticket is good for re-entry all weekend—and kids 12 and under are free.”
Want to know more about the vendors or purchasing tickets? Click here. And remember, shop early, shop often—because once things are gone, they’re gone. “When we say there’s something for everyone, we mean it,” says Salerno. “But when an artist mentions it’s one-of-a-kind, they mean it. So be sure if you see something you like, buy it. That way everybody wins.”