April 29 - May 4, 2026
If you love old things, you belong here.
Loire Valley & Paris | 4 spots only | $1995 USD deposit to join
If you have an eye for the rare and beautiful, this trip is for you.
Join Kathy for an unforgettable 6-day antiques buying adventure during the official kick-off to the French brocante season. From the blooming roses and wisteria of the Loire Valley to the iconic markets of Paris, you’ll source antiques, experience the culture and discover hidden treasures in a truly magical part of France.
This trip is all about historic France and the hunt. You’ll experience the excitement of sourcing antiques in some of the most iconic markets in France. The adventure begins in the Loire Valley, where we’ll start with an exploration of the region and a visit to the legendary Grande Brocante de Chambord. Set against the stunning backdrop of Château de Chambord, this market is one of the premier events for antique lovers and an essential part of France’s brocante season. After a day filled with treasures, we’ll head to Paris for two full days of sourcing at some of the world’s most famous markets, including the Marché aux Puces de Vanves and Saint-Ouen, with time to enjoy Parisian café culture, hidden shops and free time to explore at your own pace.
Throughout the trip, you’ll receive personalized guidance from Kathy. Whether you’re a seasoned vintage reseller, interior designer or passionate collector, Kathy will help you navigate the French culture, make confident sourcing decisions and uncover pieces with history and soul.
Accommodation in boutique hotels near Chambord and in Paris
All ground transportation during the trip
Breakfast, light lunch and dinner
Entry to the Grande Brocante de Chambord and other curated markets
Personalized sourcing and negotiation guidance from Kathy
A 1:1 pre-trip consultation call with Kathy
Shipping support and introductions to trusted shipping partners
A welcome pack to help you source with ease
Curated Antiques Markets
From the Grande Brocante de Chambord to Parisian markets, you’ll discover one-of-a-kind pieces.
Hidden Shop Gems
We’ll visit Paris’ best-kept secrets, tucked-away shops where you’ll find treasures others miss.
Café Culture & Free Time
Enjoy Parisian cafés, take leisurely strolls through the city and discover the magic of the French lifestyle during your free time.
Expert Guidance
Get personalized tips, negotiation advice and sourcing strategies from Kathy to help you buy with confidence.
This trip is perfect for anyone who treasures the art of sourcing and loves the thrill of finding beautiful, unique pieces. A trip that embodies French historic culture through experiencing the grand chateaux and iconic Paris.
Whether you’re a vintage reseller, collector, interior designer or simply someone who loves a good antique hunt, you’ll enjoy an intimate and expertly guided experience. No prior experience is necessary, just an appreciation for beautiful things and a desire to learn how to source them like an expert.
April 29 – May 4, 2025.
$5995 USD for shared accommodation.
$6495 USD for private accommodation.
Reserve your place with a $1,995 USD non-refundable deposit.
The balance will be due 60 days before travel.
Once your deposit is received, you’ll receive a welcome email and an invitation to a pre-trip planning call where we’ll review your goals, answer your questions and prepare for your sourcing adventure in France.
Spaces are limited to just 4 participants to ensure an intimate, personalized experience.
Who is the Antiques Buying Trip for?
This trip is for anyone who loves antiques. Whether you're a vintage reseller, interior designer or passionate collector, you’ll gain access to exclusive markets and hidden spots that will elevate your sourcing experience.
This trip to France is distinctive due to it's focus on Paris and the grand chateaux of France.
Do I need experience buying abroad?
Not at all! This trip is perfect for all experience levels. You’ll get expert guidance throughout, from sourcing tips to negotiation strategies.
What’s included in the trip?
Your booking covers transportation, accommodation, meals, access to curated markets, expert sourcing guidance and shipping support. You’ll also have a pre-trip consultation call with Kathy as well as a library of resources to help you prepare for this adventure.
What’s not included?
You’ll arrange your own travel to and from England, travel insurance and the cost of any purchases or shipping fees you choose to incur.
How many participants are there?
This trip is intentionally small to keep the experience personal and relaxed. The group will be limited to 4 participants so you’ll have space to connect, source at your own pace and receive individual attention.
Can I bring a guest with me?
Yes! Please note, each person must reserve a spot to ensure accommodation and transport are arranged. If you’re sharing a room, your final bill will reflect the shared accommodation rate.
How much walking is involved?
Expect plenty of walking through markets and charming towns, so comfortable shoes are essential. We’ll pace the trip with time for rest.
Is there free time on this trip?
Yes. While the itinerary is curated around sourcing, each day includes moments to slow down and simply enjoy. You’ll have time to wander the area, visit independent shops or take a walk.
Can I extend my stay in France?
Yes. You can extend your stay before or after the trip. You’ll just be responsible for your own arrangements outside the official dates.
How will I ship my purchases home?
Many guests choose to pack treasures in their luggage, and often bringing an additional suitcase. There are also several ways to ship back purchases which can be discussed with Kathy on your 1:1 consult call.
Can I choose to rent a car instead of riding with the group?
Yes. The coordination, cost and responsibility of this rental will be yours, if this is your choice. All ground transportation is included in your ticket, however, we recognize if you are extending your stay, it's often easier to rent a car for the entire trip.
What happens if I need to cancel?
Your $1,995 deposit is non-refundable as it secures your place and begins the booking process. If you need to cancel, I’ll do my best to help you reschedule within the same year, based on availability. Once the final balance is paid, refunds may only be possible if your spot can be rebooked by another participant. Travel insurance is strongly recommended.
What is the cancellation policy?
Deposits are non-refundable. The remaining balance is due 60 days before travel and becomes non-refundable at that time, unless your place can be filled by another guest. Because these trips are booked far in advance with accommodation and vendor commitments, flexibility is limited, so travel insurance is essential.
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes. Travel insurance is required to protect you in case of illness, delay or cancellation. It should cover medical care, trip interruption and your purchases if you plan to ship items home.
What does a typical day look like?
Each day starts with breakfast. The Grande Brocante starts early, so that day will have us grabbing breakfast at the event. Days are varied with sights, experiences, shops and markets. Evenings are for good food and time to spend as you please. The pace is intentional, with time to soak in what you need.
When will I hear from you after I book?
Once your deposit is received, you’ll get a welcome email within two business days. We’ll then schedule a pre-trip call to review your goals, discuss logistics and answer any questions. Between 4-8 weeks before travel, you’ll receive your digital trip packet with full details, packing tips and important contacts.