in the Flea Markets of Paris

Marché aux Puces de Rue de Voltaire

I was eager to start exploring the vintage and antique home goods market in Paris. I started by visiting a flea mentioned by @kissa.vintage.paris on her immensely helpful instagram page. This market spanned at least a kilometer down Rue de Voltaire on both sides of the street. I spent hours sifting through the treasures of each booth and connecting with the owners.

Marché aux Puces de Paris Saint-Ouen

If you know anything about Parisian flea markets, you know the allure of Marché aux Puces de Paris Saint-Ouen. This renowned flea market dates back to the 19th century and now features over 2,000 booths of antique goods. The market reflects the evolution of Parisian culture and commerce over more than a century.

Its authentic, old-world charm is enhanced by knowledgeable vendors, creating a rich shopping expe›rience. The market is a lively place where people from different backgrounds come together. It’s not just about shopping; it’s about exploring winding alleys and interacting with diverse vendors.

Italian Murano Glass circa 1950s – Blown Glass Globes

The market is open to the public from Saturdays to Mondays and to industry professionals only on Fridays. For my first visit, I went on a Friday morning to increase my chances of meeting business owners preparing for the market opening.

A look down an alley of the Marché aux Puces de Paris Saint-Ouen

Bauhaus Style Boucle Chair – Contemporary Italian work

Carlo Nason Mazzega Murano Glass Opaline White Floor Lamp circa 1960s

Carlo Nason Murano Glass “Lotus” Lamp for Mazzega circa 1970s

I met with the client experience manager of a boutique that boasted a spectacular selection of beautiful and unique European luxury pieces ranging from the 19th century to contemporary times. He invited me to tour their warehouse a few blocks away to see more of their inventory. The warehouse was packed with stunning seating, art, and lighting, each piece made with meticulous precision and craftsmanship.

I left with many priceless new industry relationships and am excited to work with these talented professionals to bring unique pieces of art to the UAE.

Why I quit my job

and spent a month in Northern France

I was living in Lincoln Park, Chicago, working as a product manager for the fastest-growing medical supplies company in the US. With complete autonomy over product portfolios comprising over 100,000 SKUs, I collaborated with international manufacturers, quality engineers, and an extensive team of dedicated logistics professionals to provide custom healthcare solutions for end users.

The procurement process, including researching, outreach, testing, negotiating, and delivering personalized solutions, was something I thrived on. However, I kept wondering if my skills could be used to connect people and business owners with a product I have a deep connection with—design. The idea of joining my professional experience with the world of design was something I couldn’t let go without giving a try.

I decided to go all in, quit my job, and travel to France to spend a month among the world’s greatest collectors and curators.

I stayed with a young French couple in a small country town 50km north of Paris. The property was stunning, and the company even better. I fell in love with French culture.

Why France? Well, I have noticed that the people appreciate the beauty and history of vintage furniture. They view these pieces as artworks that each tell a unique story. And they have some of the best markets in all of Europe dedicated to these items.

When I wasn’t searching through flea markets, connecting with booth owners, and touring packed warehouses, I was exploring and photographing all over northern France.