Hooray for Market Day

Believe me when I say, you should never miss a market day, and I’m not talking fruit and veg. They’re a convenient bonus, yes, but I’m talking about hunting for fashionable finds. Have your husband or friends get the groceries; you don’t have precious minutes to waste comparing carrots.

Treasure hunting at the markets is very serious business and should be treated as such!

The thing that keeps the local markets exciting is the constantly changing stallholders, different people every week ready to flip their wardrobes for a few dollars. Here you will find your bargain basics and other precious pieces.

Before you go, consider these few things:

Carry a bag or basket for your bargains. Remember to keep it light; we can’t have you toppling sideways with all your fabulous finds.

Arrive prepared with cash. Many markets now have ATMs, but is it worth missing out on something spectacular if they don’t?

Always keep your cash close. No one wants to be the hunted hunter.

Comfy shoes are a must. Blisters have a cunning way of curtailing your expedition.

Think about what you want to find. It will help you focus and find it.

A budget is always a good idea. Market madness can cause all sorts of excitement, resulting in unnecessary purchases.

When you arrive, where to first? Do you head toward the coffee or food stalls in search of a wake-up cure?

NO, you absolutely do not! It’s best to eat prior. You’re going to be rummaging like crazy, so you’ll need some energy. Perhaps you’re the earliest of birds and didn’t have time to eat before heading toward bargain town. I’ve been there, I feel you. It’s no excuse. Once you’ve arrived, you have ARRIVED. No one can efficiently forage with their hands full. I guarantee the homemade dim sims will taste just as good on your way out! Never chance missing a bargain! Charge straight for fashion lane.

If you’re really serious (and you should be) when hitting the markets, go alone, or if friends insist, go separate ways and meet afterwards for a cup and a dimmie to discuss your discoveries. There can be no distractions on market day. You need to keep your eye on the prize!

Although you’ve set a budget, be realistic. There are many delights waiting for discovery, but if they don’t suit and you’ll never wear them, they’re not really delightful at all. They are cheap clutter and better in someone else’s bag.

Happy Hunting xx

OH! One more thing, always, and I mean ALWAYS, dig in the bargain bins. It may feel a little unsophisticated, but a bargain’s a bargain, and if it’s not yours, it’s mine!

 

Originally published in Sunshine Coast Daily’s Life & Style Weekend Magazine, 10 August 2019.