Roaming the Antique Mart

After the Sept. 24 Ventura flea market at Seaside Park was canceled due to the park's temporary takeover as a command center for crews fighting the Day fire, the question arose: What's a flea market fanatic to do when her favorite flea market isn't held? Pay a visit to the antiques capital of the Conejo Valley, the Agoura Antique Mart.

The first thing I noticed upon entering the old shopping venue at Whizin's Center was the lovely atmosphere. The ladies at the front desk are very welcoming, and they even have coffee and cookies set up for you to enjoy as you peruse the many booths.

Each booth is very individual in its décor and merchandise. Each is set up as a vignette, so you can see how to use the décor in your own home. Whether you are looking for an antique or a brand-new gift item, you will find it.

I saw many beautiful crystal chandeliers, and it is not often you find so many in one place. There are a lot of shabby but chic pieces of furniture and items for the garden. They have beautiful, unique greeting cards, lovely fine linens and an area of wonderful bath and body products. You'll also be able to find extra crystals for chandeliers and lamps, and knobs and handles for your antique furniture.

The beauty of the Antique Mart is the number of treasures available in one place. If you don't have the time or energy to scout flea markets for one particular item, this is a fast way to find what you are looking for. Some items are a bit pricier here than at the flea market, but it is a one-stop shop.

If you don't know how to decorate or put things together, the staff is happy to help you. If you are in need of ideas, look around for awhile and you will definitely be inspired.

Try to look at each booth twice, because the first time around, I guarantee you will miss something. On my second trip around, I found the cutest little flower frog for my new collection. I also bought a very delicate plant for my

kitchen, an angel plant. I am happy to say that it is still alive and well in my kitchen--the ladies told me exactly how to care for it.

I strongly suggest taking a morning or afternoon to browse through this wonderful place. The Agoura Antique Mart is at 28863 Agoura Road. It's open from 10 a.m. till 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday. The phone number is (818) 706-8366.

There are several other very cute antiques shops in the same mall. One that I just loved is Bungalow. It is full of my favorite chipped-paint furniture as well as garden and salvage items. Bungalow also has a helpful staff and unique, beautiful antiques. It is the perfect place to wander around and get some great ideas for fall. You may even be inspired to start your holiday shopping.

I must admit I don't usually shop in antiques malls. However, I was pleasantly surprised by my recent trip to Agoura, and will return soon.

Rosemary Olson is a self-pro claimed flea market and decorating fanatic. She lives in Newbury Park.