Top Flea Market Finds at Rennigers

Article: Jaithan Kochar

Tour Renniger's Antique Extravaganza in Mt. Dora, FL with Eddie Ross as he spotlights the show's best booths for antiques, collectibles, and flea market finds.

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Eddie Goes to Market

Photo: Ralph Anderson

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!

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Make a Whole Day of It

Photo: Ralph Anderson

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.

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Keep Your Eyes Open

Photo: Ralph Anderson

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.

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Tie One On

Photo: Ralph Anderson

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.

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Go Green

Photo: Ralph Anderson

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.

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Fill Your Fruit Bowl

Photo: Jaithan Kochar
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.
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