A look into Flea-for-All | Portland, Maine

 Ahhh the smell of spring. New beginnings, boots put away, windows being washed, and making room in your home for new things (well, for me anyways!) What perfect timing for Flea-for-All in my beloved Portland, Maine! Nathaniel and Erin started working on this idea over two years ago, and with a lot of hard work, planning, and meetings with the City of Portland- they are opening their doors on Saturday, April 14th to the public!

I had an informal chat with them today in the new space (formerly Asia West on Kennebec) to get a little more insight on what the new Flea-for-All is all about! While touring the amazing three floors (two will be used for the market) of the old building that exudes character I learned that Nathaniel and Erin had a vision for a flea market that was a hybrid of crafts, handmade goods, vintage, antiques and one of a kinds you can only find at a flea market. Although juried, they have a low key process and want to ensure the variety and mix works for the market. Inspiration form Brooklyn Flea and SoWa in Boston encouraged the duo to start a similar idea in Portland. Years ago there was the Expo market in Portland, but since that has been closed (we think maybe 2004-ish) there has been a gap in the community for artist, crafters, antiquers, jewelry makers and the like to come together and sell their goods. They admit many of the vendors look at these types of markets as a 'stepping stone' for possibly a shop of their own, but like to take it slow, and get their feet wet before jumping into their own place.

I was amazed at the space and size of the venue (I had been there when it was Asia West, but there is something about huge rooms with hard wood floors, beams and exposed brick that looks so nice). There are lots of possibilities for what Flea-for-All will become over the next few weeks and months (possibly food vendors in the future) and I know I am excited and cheering them on all the way!

                                                                                   Photo courtesy of Lucilles

 A taste of some vendors at Flea-for-All include Lucilles which specializes in vintage, retro and handmade. I loved the amazing vintage fans!  Below: quick shot of a few items getting ready for opening day. 

Erin and Nathaniel will also be representing their own vintage finds at Clever Chickadee. Below is an amazing chair from their collection.

                                                                                  Photo: Courtesy of Clever Chickadee 

 Shot of the space before the hustle and bustle on Saturday!

Nathaniel and Erin while showing me around the amazing space.

 Really great calendar made out of old CDs with chalkboard paint by Erin!

 And if you know me, I love this little stool. Might have to go back for that on Saturday ;)

I am totally obsessed with this lamp shade! Look at the great knob on the top. You can find these at the market- be sure to visit Re Go. 

                                                                                                                           Photo courtesy of Re Go

And this amazing typewriter from Jack's Sprats! 

   

                                                                                                                    Photo courtesy of Jack's Sprats 
 



                    

There is ample parking in a leased lot across the street and in front of the building. 

Doors will be opening on Saturday, April 14th from 10AM- 5PM with no admission.

I hope you check it out- and if you cannot this weekend, don't worry- they will be open year round! Best of luck and congratulations Erin and Nathaniel!! So excited and cannot wait to check it out!