'Sally Has Fleas' returns to Fat Sally's today
May 25—ASHTABULA — Fat Sally's Warehouse is hosting its sixth annual "Sally Has Fleas" event from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. today.
Each year, antique aficionados, craft enthusiasts and thrift lovers gather to display their collectibles and creations.
Fat Sally's Warehouse owner Cory Nagle said that the event has grown over the years. When he first started it, they only had two to three vendors.
"Our main objective has always been to drive people to Ashtabula, get them to come to the store, and we want them to experience what Ashtabula has to offer," he said.
Nagle said they have 70 to 80 different vendors this year. He said that they don't turn anyone away either. Vendors can show up day of, and he will let them participate.
"We have people coming from Erie, Pittsburgh, Cleveland," he said. "It goes out 150 miles."
Dangle said that Ashtabula has a rich history and is happy to see outsiders enjoy the area as much as he does.
"A lot of the time we are that introduction to Ashtabula" he said. "Our customers love the area and end up buying second homes here."
Laird Drive will be closed for the event and there will be food and live entertainment.
Two food trucks will be set up on the street, Debbie's Delights and Weeepaaa Smoked and BBQ.
Signs of the Time vendor and Fat Sally's Warehouse employee Katie Johns said that she's been looking forward to the big event.
"We meet a lot of interesting people," Johns said. "People come from two to three hours away. It's good networking for us. It's interesting to be behind the counter and see what everybody buys. It's a fun time."
Nagle said that he hopes that his store experience helps a customer escape their day-to-day challenges.
"There was a time when you didn't know your neighbors, like now, and there was a time when you knew your neighbors," he said. "What we're trying to do is bring that back. When you come here, I want you to be happier than when you came."
