I love going to flea markets, especially when I’m traveling, because I love seeing the stuff of other cultures, handicrafts and things with historical content.
– Anna Sui, American fashion designer

I had heard of the Alameda flea market for quite a while, but I had never been. My friend, Raissa, who has gone a number of times, and I made plans for the first Sunday in February. But after a glorious January with temps in the 70s, the rains came and we had to wait until the first Sunday in March. Well, it was misty on that day and then it started drizzling, with a chill rolling in like fog. We were chased out after only a couple of hours of methodically making our way to the entrance from the back. We obviously didn’t hit everything or have the opportunity to walk leisurely around. But it only means that we will be back when the sun is shining – perhaps with a flatbed in tow!

Beautiful antique ceiling tins and mirrors. Oh, to have a big old empty house to fill with antiques and vintage wares and furniture!

Despite the weather, while there weren’t as many vendors as there would have been in good weather, there were plenty of interesting wares to admire, even if we did zoom by as the mist turned heavy and into rain. We took business cards, made a note of where the vendors were on the grid, and committed to memory what particular things they handcrafted or were selling that we appreciated.

The work of Lely Howard, “builders of repurposed reclaimed custom furniture,” reminds me of Good Goods – industrial mixed with rustic. You can reach him at 707.321.7005, sales@lelyhoward.com.

Here are some of the moments I captured on my maiden voyage:

Wine country aesthetic of Lely Howard’s goods.

A close-up of a beautiful display by Lely Howard.

Elsie Green (2954 Treat Blvd., Suite C-D, Concord, 866.575.4437, www.elsiegreen.com) had the most amazing tabletop displays! I got a lot of decorating tips from this green shop.

Another beautiful dining arrangement from Elsie Green.

We had a great time trying on vintage and antique jewelry at the booth of “treasure hunter and stylist” Heather Tenaya, who travels the world over in search of beautiful jewelry. You can see her goods at Vin.Jewels.com and GypsyRoadStudio.Etsy.com.

Dramatic and stunning 1920s Czech glass drop earrings!

1920s French marcasite, onyx, and sterling silver necklace, a la Great Gatsby.