Flea Market Shopping in Mt. Dora, FL

Photo: Ralph Anderson

Eddie Goes to Market

Southern Living tagged along with style expert and flea market fanatic Eddie Ross at the Renninger’s Antique Extravaganza in Mt. Dora, Florida. An Antiques Fair is held the third weekend of every month with a special, three-day extravaganza in January, February, and November. Read on for Eddie's insider tips to help make the most of your shopping time!

Photo: Ralph Anderson

Make a Whole Day of It

Located on 117 acres of rolling countryside just 30 minutes north of Orlando, the Renninger’s Antique Extravaganza boasts 1,400 dealers of antique furniture, collectibles, jewelry, silver, glass, pottery and fine art. Plan to arrive early on Friday, shop the fields first, and then head to the air-conditioned main building to cool off. Don’t forget the farmer’s flea market on top of the hill, where you just might find the freshest deal of the day!

Tip: Don't worry about packing a lunch. The chicken curry from Vyasa and Anita Ramnarain with Three Boys Deli is some of the best I've ever had! Stand #10 down the hill from Gate 5 on the right.

Photo: Ralph Anderson

Keep Your Eyes Open

You never know what you’re going to find at a flea market, especially one like Renninger’s with diverse dealers selling everything from sofas to salt cellars. Do one big loop around the entire grounds, scanning the tables carefully as you go, then do another to make sure you didn’t miss a gem.

Photo: Ralph Anderson

Tie One On

Retro aprons like these are such a fun way to add whimsy to summer entertaining. Skip the typical napkins at your next cookout, and opt for one of these bib-like cloths. They come in a colorful mix of gingham, rickrack, and embroidery. They make great hostess gifts too, paired with homemade jams and jellies.

Photo: Ralph Anderson

Go Green

I love the chartreuse glow of Vaseline glass, named for its similarity in color to petroleum jelly. Collect individual pieces over time for a striking display. Be sure to keep them close at hand so that you will really put them to use! I'd use this cakestand for serving a chilled quiche at a summer brunch or piled high with lemony cupcakes.

Photo: Jaithan Kochar

Fill Your Fruit Bowl

I love the quirky vintage look of beaded fruit from the 50s. Keep your collection sophisticated by limiting the palette to variations on a single color. Fill a clear glass bowl for an easy and unexpected centerpiece that's sure to spark a conversation.

Top Flea Market Finds at Rennigers

Eddie Goes to Market

Make a Whole Day of It

Keep Your Eyes Open

Tie One On

Go Green

Fill Your Fruit Bowl