NYC Culture/Style: DOUBLE TREAT: A Tour of 1stdibs, and a Paris Flea Market Lecture by The Antiques Diva

On March 25th at the New York Design Center, Toma Clark Haines, The Antiques Diva, had an exhaustive and eye opening lecture on the ins and outs of the Paris Flea Market and the mistakes neophytes make when exploring it without an expert guide to help them out. It was an invaluable opportunity for interior designers who enjoy treasure hunting to learn how to make the most out of their foraging adventures abroad.

Before the lecture started, we were invited by 1stdibs to take a guided tour through what some of us jokingly, but very seriously, referred to as "The Candy Store," as the photos I took of their showroom can attest.

'Antiques Diva' Toma Clark Haines explaining the nature of her business

Toma with 1stdibs tour Guide Patrick Bavasi

1stdibs connects the world's best dealers, finest shops and most important galleries with the world's most sophisticated collectors, designers and curators.

Starting with the few dealers that were hand-selected by founder Michael Bruno at Paris's legendary antiques market, Marché Aux Puces, in 2001, 1stdibs have become the global destination for those who must have 'first dibs' on treasures—from around the world—that would otherwise be inaccessible.

Rose Ott, Andrea Algaze, Julie Schuster, Toma, Michelle Slovak, Kayne Rourke Wilk

Lunch break between tour and lecture

Andrew Joseph, publicist of the event, with friend

Andrea makes opening remarks

Toma and Andrea

Since opening in 2008 The Antiques Diva® & Co has become Europe’s largest antiques touring company, offering customized, private one-on-one antiques buying tours in 11 countries to both private individuals (tourists) and to the trade (antique dealers and interior designers). Locally based Diva Guides are well-versed in the local culture, language, and best local sources for antiques—whether that be the local flea markets, antique warehouses or private, by-appointment-only antique stores. The Antiques Diva® translates, negotiates and liaises with a shipper to help get purchases across the pond.

The Antiques Diva & Co also offers Antique Buying Services for trade professionals such as Interior Designers, Antique Dealers, and Store Owners. Once provided with a list of items desired, The Antiques Diva & Co. scours sources, sending clients images along with negotiated trade prices. This service provides busy dealers the opportunity to shop abroad without spending the time or money to go abroad personally.