Baby, It’s Old Outside: What’s old is new again.

Dashing through the aisles and miles of antiques at our monthly outdoor show, looking for retro gifts can be overwhelming but fear not, my annual Vintage Holiday Helper Gift Guide is back!  Every year, I scour The Point and hundreds of booths to give you a seasonal selection of irresistible vintage items to delight everyone on your holiday shopping list. I’ve selected retro items that are available in all price ranges at The Point. If you are working with a small budget, you can still find quality vintage goods for a song. Vintage holiday décor is festive and we have merry must-haves to make your season bright. Look for evergreen wreaths and add some elegant vintage bows and glass ornaments for a dash of style. Don’t forget to enchant with some mistletoe…Deck your halls with treasures from bygone days in that yuletide tradition.

Last month, I perused many booths filled with vintage ornaments, aluminum Christmas trees and beaded garland to add a festive vibe. Whimsical vintage lawn figures like Frosty can be found and complete your outdoor holiday display.

As you roam our show, you’ll spot many booths that carry low cost stocking stuffers at The Point. Up-cycle old materials such as vintage lace, doilies, hankies and linens to create custom gift wrapping. One of the most heart-warming elements of the holiday season is making and/or purchasing homemade gifts to give. Fellow members of our vintage loving community sell homemade accessories using vintage and recycled materials including handmade ornaments. Ornaments are easy on the pocketbook and can be added to the top of your package like a bow, or can make a charming hostess gift.

Dazzle them with sparkle and sequins by wearing retro holiday party attire you found at The Point. You’ll find something from every decade to make your entrance memorable. Shop for beaded frocks and glitzy party accessories. Men’s ties and tie clips add dapper details. Plenty of show-stopping vintage attire is waiting to be found every month. From faux fur to dazzling costume jewelry, you’re sure to shine with retro glamour.

‘Tis the season to brighten someone’s day with a present from Alameda Point’s huge selection of unique vintage and high quality goods. Giving one-of-a-kind vintage presents are always thoughtful and will be treasured for years to come. (Maybe you’ll find a little something for yourself too.) Oh what fun! Use this guide for all of your upcoming shows and online shopping on Estsy and Ebay!

General Gift Giving:

– Magazines (e.g. vintage collectible ones like Vogue)

– Potted plants and holiday wreaths (see our farmer’s market section)

– Vintage hand tools and garden tools

– Record players

– Ice Bucket and other barware (Add your own bottle of bubbly)

– Mittens, hat, scarf or other winter accessories

– Bookmarks

– Briefcases

– Picture frames

– Artwork

– Flight bags

– Cookbooks

– Flasks

– Fondue set

– Aprons

– Cookie cutters

– Tea towels

– Coasters

– Compacts

– Salt & pepper shakers

– Tie clips/cuff links

Children:

– Table tennis set

– Vintage children’s books

– Hot Wheels or Matchbox cars (collectible)

– Roller skates

– Vintage Star Wars toys

– Playing card sets

– Headbands/hair clips & hair bows

– Pez dispensers

– Musical instruments

– Board games

– Teddy bears

– Train sets

May this vintage guide spark your imagination and give you creative gift giving ideas that you can use throughout the season.

Happy Holidays