Neighborhood Flea

I love the concept of Neighborhood Flea. Local makers, crafters and vintage sellers alike come together, and are paired with several food booths and trucks in the area.
However, to even have flea in the name, implying a flea market, is a bit of a misnomer.
I’m one of those weird people who enjoys the standard-​type flea market. (Let’s say like Trader Jack’s.) It’s usually kinda dirty, it’s unpredictable what you can find, but the stuff is usually cheap. I enjoy the dig, the hard work it takes to find a diamond in the rough.
Neighborhood Flea is anything but. It’s carefully curated by its vendors, with clean, polished items, which is great if that’s what you’re looking for. But those items also come with a bigger price tag. It’s dependent on the vendor, but I know that prices on items are a little high for me. No, I don’t want to pay $ 30 for an ugly Christmas sweater from the 1980s. Or $ 150 for re-​purposed side table made from reclaimed wooden chair legs and a vintage suitcase. The vintage women’s clothing selection is ace, but it’s difficult for me to find wares for myself since most vintage clothes are small.
Another note: There’s definitely a bigger 20-​something holier-​than-​thou hipster crowd here. Meh.
I was totally in love with this event last year, but this year, I’ve gone three times and left empty handed twice.
A friend who has been a vendor here told me the set up fees are very high, to the point that many of the vendors don’t make any money when they set up. Therefore, I think there’s been a lot of turnaround with who is there from month to month. For me, that’s not good. I’d like to see some of the same vendors for consistency, but also to develop customer-​to-​owner relationships. Repeat transactions. Loyalty.
I know it’s still a fairly new monthly event, but I’m hoping that things continue to evolve. I’ll probably continue to come back if I’m in the area, but I don’t want to be leaving empty handed habitually.

I had a great time at this past Neighborhood Flea! I took a pop-​up craft class making a weaving to hang on the wall. It was a blast!
I loved looking around at all the antiques, as well. I didn’t buy anything though because prices were too high. Lots I wish I could have afforded though! The finds are unlike the other flea markets in Pittsburgh. It really reminds me of a small version of the swap meets in California or New York!

Love, Love The Neighborhood Flea! There were a lot of different vendors selling all sorts of things, plus food vendors! If you like unique things and vintage stuff, and also handmade items from local people this is the place to go.
The next one is June 14^th and I will be there as a vendor (Between Sisters) my sister and I love to refurbish furniture and make some different home décor items! You must stop by and see me. Our furniture is like no one else and we only refurbish good quality furniture and our prices are fantastic!