FIRST BROCANTE OF 2012 - 12TH MAY 2012

Given the return to the soggy climes of last week, I feel incredibly lucky that we had such a fabulously sunny day for the first Brocante of the year on Saturday.  French Living magazine had tweeted just before to encourage people to come and taste a bit of France, which felt hugely encouraging.  Thank you to them.  This seemed to bring lots of people out to browse, buy, run, play rugby and just "hang out" in the beautiful surroundings of Alice Park.  I had some fantastic stallholders.  Returning again were my stalwarts; Steve Weekes from Texworks, (to whom I am eternally grateful to for support and her husband Ivan for transporting my furniture for the day) and Serena Simpson with her stylish antique homewares.      

Attending for the first time was Jacqui Hunt, whoose quirky brocante finds transformed the edge of the cafe into a veritable French feast, (I loved her stunning bamboo cabinet), Chris and Sammy from Old Hat with their stunning vintage clothes, hats and sorts of other curiosities.  My lovely daughter bought me a Super Saints badge that I had admired, and their ladder back chair was admired by many, and bought by a friend.  Also Scrapiana with her fascinating vintage haberdashery, including her china poodle that came from her Mother-in-Law's off licence in Bournemouth with a secret supply of cherry brandy!  Alice Roberton from Homes & Antiques magazine was there selling magazine subscriptions as well as her beautiful vintage homewares.

I was really heartened to hear how much those who came had enjoyed it and especially the couple who booked in to a B&B especially so they could come.  I admire that drive! 

Next month's Brocante on the 9th June, is looking pretty full with about 10 dealers including Rosie Blue, La Petite Jardiniere, RefoundReloved, Albion House Design, Elise M, Old Hat, Texworks, Katherine Gilmore and Puce and Co.  COME ALONG AND BRING YOUR FRIENDS!

I also wanted to thank my family and friends for all their encouragement and Tony from Alice Park Cafe for lettting it happen and his encouragement.