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MAINE ANTIQUE DIGEST

2/1/2005 1:32:00 PM
By Danielle Arnet

http://www.maineantiquedigest.com/articles/feb05/chicago0205.htm

Start-ups are tricky, but already, in its first season, the Chicago Antique Market looks like a winner.

The brainchild of Kathleen Finley and Sally Schwartz, both experienced former events promoters, the indoor-outdoor event in Chicago's South Loop has built steadily since its debut on May 30, 2004. Held the last Sunday of each month from May through October, the event is set in a closed-off area of several city blocks.

On September 26, 2004, an early fall Sunday with the city air so clear that one could almost reach out to touch the Sears Tower, throngs of happy shoppers filled the market. Unlike the solemnity of attendees at major shows, this was an "up" bunch. Enthusiasm and a good mood prevailed. Several sellers whom we'd seen dressed to the nines while working big shows were there in jeans and weekend casual, relaxed and having fun.

The relative youth of the crowd was striking. With price points at every range, there really was something for everyone. New, young buyers could enter the market.

According to Finley, pitching the market idea to the Mayor's Office of Special Events was a snap. "They were receptive because other world-class cities had an antiques market," she told us.

Dealers, however, were a harder sell. "A certain type of dealer saw that most of their customers came from the city," Finley explained, "and this was a way to reach them. Some committed for the entire season right then." Others took it month by month.

On opening day last May, the heavens opened, and it poured, but there were several clear hours at first, leading one seller to report, "I sold more in forty-five minutes than I did in a day at other markets." Buyers snaked around three blocks, waiting to get in. Early buying opens at 7 a.m. for $15. Starting at 8 a.m., regular admission is $8. Other city markets may be free, but this venue has no financial help from the city. There are corporate partners, but advertising, parking, security, cleanup, and other hefty expenses are shouldered by the promoters.

Bolstered by positive press and word of mouth, "each month has built on the other," said Finley. August, the biggest month, brought 4500 buyers. She thinks it happened because "Chicagoans love to get together, to be part of a social experience." A look at the city ballparks and festivals can tell you that.

Free parking lures the suburban crowd. Arriving at midmorning in September, we found a spot half a block from the ticket booth. No hassle. Nearing the gate, we saw a uniformed Chicago police officer conferring with plainclothes security about a parking situation. It is not by accident that the market runs so smoothly.

"We have to commit to a certain amount of security," said Finley. "Though it's so expensive, we have to, from the dealer standpoint." Wristbands are issued at the gate, and nonuniformed security is in discreet evidence.

Placed in proximity to Interstate exits, the market is also easily available to city dwellers. Finding a home wasn't easy. "We had to find a spot where the landlords were willing to let us rent their space for the market. It's an investment this year, with the payoff down the road," Finley explained.

For buyer ease, an ATM is on site. We saw one buyer so relieved it was there, she closed a major purchase. Food selection is light years above the greasy Polish sausage standard at most Chicago events, and because the area houses several upscale eateries, they're on hand with specialties such as gourmet Italian sandwiches and scones. Wine and beer are also available, though demand has been so-so. A Starbucks wagon has been on site to deliver a different free tasting each month, and customers don't have to trek to the wagon; a friendly rep comes to buyers, proffering a tray of filled, standard-size cups.

Already planning for 2005, the partners expect to offer season passes. "We're in the process of honing our dealer body, so we have the right mix and variety. Now the dealers call us. We have to turn some away because keeping the integrity of the market is an investment. Our goal is to make this a destination event for shoppers." Geared to about 200 to 225 sellers, the market can grow one more city block, as needed.

"I think we couldn't have had better results," added Finley about the debut summer. "Starting this was a very calculated risk. We're off to a solid start. I would be very surprised if this fails."

For more information, call Finley or Schwartz at (312) 951-9939 or visit the Web site (www.chicagoantiquemarket.com).