Jaunted

As we were leaving later in the day, our friend spied "My Name is Earl" star Jason Lee in full Earl mustache and uniform--plaid shirt and jeans. We, however, were suffering from some random eye allergy from the volatile LA air and could barely make him out. In short, bring moist towellettes or hand sanitizer with you.

We got most of our best buys from the stuff we spied early in the morning so that's another good reason to show up before the crowds. Plus, once everyone arrived later in the afternoon, moving through the rows of booths became more difficult.

Before our eye crisis forced us to leave, we ended up buying a working shabby chic floor lamp for $68 (these things retail for at least $150), fleur de lis bookends for $6, a set of mirrored coasters for $6, a shabby chic desk chair for $30 and a white-painted cement statue of a french bulldog for $20. It looks exactly like our dog, Tank.

Getting There: Coming from LA proper, you'll need to take the Freeway 10. If you leave anytime before 8 am, there will be no traffic. Hop on to the 110 North to exit 31A, Orange Grove and follow signs from there.

Admission Costs: Unfortunately, you have to pay admission. Special VIP sneak previews from 5 am to 7 am cost $20. Early Bird admission from 7 to 8 is $15. Express admission from 8 to 9 is $10 and all admission after 9 is $15. Children under 12 are free.

Insider Tips: Get there early. You'll avoid traffic and be able to get a parking spot close to the bowl which makes carting your wares easier. Also, if you think you are going to buy a lot of stuff bring a cart or a dolley for said carting of wares.

And while these prices are cheap compared to Pottery Barn, always shop around. One vendor was selling the same exact coasters we bought for $28. We got ours for $6. And, as we learned, don't touch your eyes after you pick up dusty items.