Getting the most out of your buying experience

Mrs. Fix-it

I recently took a girls’ trip to Canton, Texas, a place that’s famously known for their “First Monday Trade Days.” The market is held the Thursday through Sunday preceding the first Monday of each month. In Canton, you’ll find just about anything for anyone. There’s homemade décor, handcrafted furniture, unique clothing for all ages and food with plenty of samples to try before you buy! Canton is about two hours west of Shreveport and right off I-20. You can’t miss it.

For the DIY-er like me, this place is a mecca. Within minutes upon your arrival, you’ll be overloaded with ideas and motivation to re-create the things you see at the different booths.

With Christmas only a few short weeks away, Canton was the perfect place for me to find unique Christmas gifts for the people on my list. There are over 6,000 vendors at Canton during this once-a-month event, and you’re guaranteed to find something for even the most difficult person to shop for.

For any of you who haven’t been and even for those who have, I have come up with a list of tips to help you get through one of the largest flea markets in the world.

Come hungry. Not only is the shopping great, but the local food vendors have some famous southern specialties for you to enjoy. From the hand-squeezed lemonade to the sausage on a stick and tornado tater, you won’t go hungry while shopping. Also, if you get the lemonade, refills are just $3 (keep the cup and bring it with you every time!).

Also, come early. You’ll get a better parking spot (around $5) if you come early. You’ll also appreciate it when you’ve spent hours wandering the pavilions and are ready to get in your car and go back home.

You can easily get lost among the different sections of the market. Take mental note of specific objects and use them as landmarks to help you navigate the several different pavilions.

If you see something unique and you like it, don’t pass it up. There’s a high chance that it won’t be there if you return to it later.

Cell phone service is terrible. If you’re shopping with a group and split ways for a little while, decide on a time to meet up and pick a location.

If antiques are what you are looking for, don’t waste your time in the pavilions. Head over to the outdoor area, and you’ll have plenty to comb through. A lot of things you’ll find are very affordable and will give you a ton of inspiration to create something unique and beautiful in your home.

Bring a cart. You don’t want to be lugging around your purchases for the next few hours. You can also rent and purchase carts while there.

Wear comfortable shoes. You’ll be walking around a ton, and some of it is on unpaved dirt ground.

If possible, leave kids behind. I brought my 4-month-old, but the older two I left with Dad for the weekend. I knew my big kids would be whining within the first hour of walking around.

So whether you’ve been a few times, you’re a regular attender or it’s your first time, you’re guaranteed to find something you’ll love every time. Keep in mind the nine tips I highlighted, bring a few friends or family members and enjoy yourself!

Sara Thomas is Mrs. Fix-it.

She is originally from Louisiana and is the mother of three, son Ryker, and daughters Reese and Robyn. Her husband, Jason, was born and raised in Texas and very proud of that.

E-mail Sara at sara_e_thomas@hotmail.com.