Cover Feature

OOn a warm day in August we had the opportunity to sit down and speak with Michele Carlton, co-owner of Vintage Market Days. It was with a look of awe that Michele confided, “I can’t believe we are seven years old and going on our 13th event at the Florida Parishes Arena!” Vintage Market Days® of Southeast Louisiana was a dream come true for her, creating a one-of-a-kind vintage event for the residents of south Louisiana. And, by the crowds of customers that have been visiting since 2016, it would appear they love it as much as she does! Vintage Market Days® is an upscale, vintageinspired, covered open-air market featuring original art, antiques, clothing, jewelry, handmade treasures, home décor, outdoor furnishings, consumable yummies, seasonal plantings, and a little more.

Photos by Johnny Chauvin

It is so much more than your typical craft fair or flea market! Each market is created as a unique event, and there will be a “Harvest Ball” event October 14 -16. Each offers a carefully-selected group of vendors from all over the United States with a large selection of local Louisiana vendors. Michelle commented, “I love watching the arena transform from a horse arena into small shops that vendors create just for you and to watch your smiling,

excited faces as you come through the door to see all that we have to offer you.” She was also quick to point out the amazing live music lineup and delicious food trucks! “There are visitors who attend all three days of the event just to eat and listen to the music!”

This fall they’ll be celebrating the Vintage Market Days® franchise turning 10 years old and Michelle couldn’t be more excited. When asked if they had anything special planned, she smiled and divulged, “ A little birdie told me that on Saturday, October 15th vendors will be dressed up in their favorite Halloween costumes and will be handing out candy to our smallest customers! Dress up your children in their Halloween costumes and grab their treat bags so they can enjoy trick-or-treating throughout our two arenas with great photo opportunities!”

Michelle is also excited to partner with TARC of Hammond as their non-profit benefactor. The mission of TARC is to provide opportunities for children and adults

- Michele Carlton, co-owner of Vintage Market Days

with disabilities to realize their full potential and to become self-directed and contributing citizens. “We are honored to have them join us in October!"

Tickets for the event can be purchased online through Eventbrite at https://vintagemarketdays. com/market/se-louisiana/tickets.php and Tangi Lifestyle’s readers can save an additional 20% off tickets with the code VMD. Friday’s ticket is $15, Saturday’s ticket is $10, and Sunday’s ticket is $5, and tickets are good for all weekend! Children 12 and under are free and parking at the arena is free! You can also pay at the door all three days of the event, and they accept cash or cards at the entrance.

VMD™ is a small business who supports nearly a hundred small business owners at each event. During this crazy economic time, they need local support to continue to bring the vintage experience to you! Mark your calendar and plan to attend their “Harvest Ball” on October 14 -16 at the Florida Parishes Arena in Amite. Can’t wait to see you there!

Portion of proceeds to benefit

MadDashMixes.com

Special Event Catering & More Visit our food truck at Vintage Market Days!