Finders Keepers Losers Weepers…
We were lucky enough to live over the road from the Old Museum in Bowen Hills/Fortitude Valley at the time and last-minute I found out that there was a market on over the weekend called ‘The Finders Keepers’ – knowing nothing about it, I logged online and found that it’s on twice a year in Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne, I thought it looked great – local artists and businesses selling their products, with live music, fresh iced tea and ice cream to boot…I couldn’t say no with a low entry fee of just $2! They even allow you to use their artwork to spread the word!
So, I headed to the Old Museum and it was brilliant. The setting is gorgeous, with stalls inside and outside of the museum, you are greeted by shabby chic trailers and VW vans selling coffee that smells divine… & I’m not even a coffee person! There is rustic furniture hand-made from Byron Bay, perfect for a summer’s evening on the deck, funky hipster kids clothing and well designed custom-made shoes.
I followed the track through the gardens and onto the green, which seemed to be the foodies area (my fave!) where lots of seating areas had been set up with stools and chairs and sofas, set up to watch the live afternoon music. I opted for a Diego’s Drop Fruity Iced Tea…so refreshing! You have to check them out at their next event. Also, I’d stupidly already eaten before I arrived (next time, I’m spending the day there!) so instead of a meal I went for a BOSS Bites Peanut Butter Ice-Cream Sandwich, it was a little salty, a little sweet, with gorgeous crunchy cookies holding it together. Rachael opted for the Cookies and Cream Sandwich and we both agreed that they are some of the best ice cream sandwiches we’ve had and definitely satisfy my sweet tooth! (I’d even go as far to say this time round they beat the world-famous Mister Fitz!).
We went for a wander round the stalls, there were loads of different things on offer from furniture, ceramics, funky wall art, gifts, cards, christmas decorations, ornaments, plants and mini eco terrariums, jewellery, shoes, clothes, takeaway food and more. With so much to see, I thought I’d share a few of my highlights with you…
These gorgeous little hanging terrariums caught my eye a few times while walking round the markets and they are so damn cute! Upon further inspection, I found there are so many different types! They are not the cheapest, but they are gorgeous. If you have wooden features over your decking or a nice balcony you want to kit out with some funky plants, but in an interesting way – I’d definitely head here.
Moodie had some of the funkiest PJ’s I’ve ever seen made for children. It’s a good job they don’t make them for adults – I’d be hooked on them! These funky prints are different to whats out there in the shops at the moment, and they would make a great gift! I may have happened to purchased a Cheeseburger related gift for a certain expectant friend while I was there…I won’t spoilt the surprise with a picture, but you should definitely check them out.
I am OBSESSED with these chairs. I have nowhere to put them and it makes me super sad! So, as soon as I have a bigger apartment/deck – I’m seeking this guy out. Hand crafted deck chairs, with a total beach vibe…these beauties SCREAM Australian Summer! I believe the Singles were $650 and Doubles $950. Worth every penny if you ask me, plus they are super comfy! This guy doesn’t usually sell in Brisbane but it’d be worth the drive to Byron.
This place really impressed me, especially as I am in the market for an awesome wedding present. You know who you are… if you are reading this…look away now. This place is fucking awesome. They create the coolest hand-made sterling silver wedding ‘keep sake’ gifts that would suit the most hipster of people, to the traditionalists. Love it! This ones bookmarked already with plans to buy many of the items…
I’d also recommend checking out:
Paper Boat Press
Ginny Reynders Jewellery
In The Daylight Mel Stringer Illustration
& Duck Feet Shoes
I could go on and on and on with the other fabulous stalls, but I’ll leave you with a few surprises – check out the next event in Sydney!
I’ve put this post in travel tips…if your in the area when it’s on, it’s a great day out!
*Disclaimer: Images taken from Finders Keepers Facebook & Website or Individual Companies Instagram to reflect the beautiful branding of the markets and the products talked about in this blog. None of the artwork is my own, its available to use online and it’s just so pretty!
**Disclaimer: this post is in no way sponsored, I just really enjoyed the markets!
