How to: Spend a Day in Round Top like a Designer!

My soul is filled by getting out of the city, off the packed 6-lane highway, away from the hustle and the honking, and out into the country. I want to see some stars, hear a dove calling at sunrise, and feel my shoulders drop as I take in a deeeeep, peaceful breath. Normally this need is met by going to the family farm, but in April and October I get an extra fix by going down to Round Top! Though attendance has been steadily rising for years, you can STILL find a peaceful spot and make a day of it. I promise! Enjoy the hunt for beautiful, unique things, and some German sausage made by someone’s Lutheran grandma. Duh! Here are my tips for shopping Round Top like a pro!

Have a game plan

First things first! Know what you’re dealing with. Everything is in a field. “Round Top” is along a highway between Giddings and LaGrange, TX. Ranchers have livestock in these fields year-round and rent their land out to antique vendors. Some fields have the same vendors every year, but sometimes they’ll move, and you need to find them again. Food and bathrooms are scarce. Pick a place to start, research the vendors you don’t want to miss, and go from there!

A little insider tip:

In the past, Marburger has been my most successful field, followed by La Bahia. Marburger is very well-styled and easy to navigate. That being said, their prices can be higher. It’s also very well-shopped by designers from around the world, so if you don’t get the advanced ticket, you may miss the good stuff! The fields open at 10, but the line on the highway will be formed by 8. Be in it! Haha! If you want a calmer time, start with La Bahia. It varies between well-styled and “dig through this pile” style booths.

Dress accordingly

Wear walking shoes. That may mean boots for you, but for me, that’s a trusty pair of tennies. I’ve seen a lot of “What I’m Wearing to Round Top!” videos, but it WILL rain, AND you will sweat through your clothes… why hinder your hunting with your outfit? Btw! There’s zero “great parking” or convenient pickup, so don’t find yourself unable to get the thing you’ve been looking for years, all because of your outfit.

What to bring

Bring wet wipes and hand sanitizer. Lots of things have been sitting in this field for three weeks already, so they’ll be very dusty. You’ll want to be able to clean your hands and face as you keep hunting and digging. I’ve heard of people finding real designer goods for $5 because it was dusty. Get in there!

ALSO, bring a wagon!!! North Star and Zapp Hall fields are excellent shopping but are entirely gravel walkways. This can wear your legs out, of course, but also makes a Hulken Bag or similar luggage concept ineffective. So get yourself a trusty ole wagon and get the job done. Another trick and tidbit to make note of? Everyone takes cards… but you can generally get a better price with cash.

Hungry?

After all the searching, you’ll definitely work up an appetite, so here’s a lunch suggestion! I always eat at Carmine Dance Hall. German farming grandmas (just like mine!) cook every day and give you a plate of BBQ, sausage, potato salad, green beans, plus a dessert. There’s also air conditioning and a bathroom! Amen!

Shop slow

Finally! Go slow and look at everything. Use your imagination! What could this be? How could this trend fit in at your home? Oh, and most importantly! Be true to you! Shop with your heart, and be authentic to the styles and designs that represent you. One October, everything was plaid thermoses and old picnic sets. While I loved the vibe, it wasn’t me! I saved my dollars, shopped around some more, and found the perfect concrete swan planters instead!! The wait was worth it! Go slow and be generous!!

If you haven’t been to Round Top, I hope you use this as a sign to make the trip. On the other hand, if you’re a regular, enjoy my perspective! The place encourages creativity, imagination, and persistence. You will most likely leave with more than you were hoping to! Have fun and happy shopping!!!