VENICE — Whoops and hollers echoed off the walls of the local European-style flea market as more than 50 women clad in Valentine’s Day attire made their way off their 50-foot coach bus Thursday.
While Venice Mercato on the Island has been known to incite a scream or two of delight after finding a hidden treasure, this glee was a different kind of excitement.
Venice Mercato on the Island teamed up with Happy Thrifter Resale Guides and Tours for the second year in a row to deliver a romantic spin on thrifting.
“We try to find a new and fun way to bring attention to up-purposed and salvaged goods at our store every month and highlight why it is better to shop thrifted for the environment,” said Patti Clark, owner of Happy Thrifter Resale Guides and Tours.
Longtime North Port resident George Franz decided to become the local thrifting shop’s latest Golden Bachelor for its annual Valentine’s event this year.
“Why not?” quipped Franz when asked for the reason he agreed.
Nervously straightening out his red velvet suit jacket as women aged 55 to 75 poured into the parlor area, Mr. Golden Bachelor of the Venice Mercato began greeting each woman with a flower and a question, “Will you accept this rose?”