What is the Found Cottage Mercantile?

The Found Cottage Mercantile is an annual event held at the Ottawa County Fairgrounds featuring vendors from all around the United States. This happens to be just a half mile from my house which is incredibly convenient for me. I ended up meeting a fellow home DIY influencer, Maria, from @purehappyhome who also lives in Holland at the event. We arrived at 8:45am and there was already a long line before the event opened at 9am. Additionally, tickets only cost $7 cash Saturday morning (you can come Friday afternoon for a more expensive price).

Vendors at the Event

One of the first vendors was one of my favorites. It was a Pennsylvania vendor of English interiors called Canvas and Cargo. They had gorgeous vintage books, crocks, large solid wood dining tables and hutches and a large selection of huge wooden cutting boards. It truly was a feast for the eye! The cream pottery and light wood tones were soothing tones.

DIY Inspiration

Since I didn’t have any items that I was specifically looking for, I could browse without pressure to buy. However, I did want to get DIY inspiration for fall decor ideas that I could copy in my home. There was PLENTY of DIY inspo from homemade fall trees, primitive furniture, wreaths, stenciled leaves on slate tiles, and jute pumpkins. Now I can’t wait to get started on fall projects!

Since my design style is to slowly add unique pieces over time, I selected a few items to add to my home. I bought the following: a sticker for my daughter that says “You Are Loved” for her water bottle from CHR paperie, a cream crock bowl from the 1800’s for $39 from a vendor from Kentucky, and a neutral hand towel for $7 from Union Farm Goods both pictured below.

Original Artwork and Vintage Rugs

Additionally, two items I kept noticing were oil paintings in gilded gold frames and vintage rugs. There were beautiful landscape and floral paintings (pictured below) and a variety of vintage rugs in all different colors and sizes. One of my hopes is to one day find a vintage rug while thrifting because the prices of these rugs are quite pricey. However, both are a “splurge” item and would be unique pieces to add character to your home.

My Conclusion

In conclusion, this was my third time at The Found Cottage Mercantile Event and in my opinion, this year was the best! It was gorgeous weather. There was a large variety of clothing, home decor and furnishings at various price points, along with a huge selection of vintage items and antiques. Finally, the only thing I would have changed would be to get in line for the iced coffee at the beginning. That line was LONG!

Did you go to this event over Labor Day or would you want to come to this event next year? Comment below. I’d love to know!