Perhaps I just put off an aura of unapproachability, because I didn't have too bad of a problem with it. I had in my mind a number of items I wanted to buy, and I set out pretty single-mindedly to find them. I looked at a lot of stuff, and when sellers tried to talk to me I said no thanks, but Marcie's right -- I didn't look them in the eye, I just said it and kept on doing whatever I was doing. I wouldn't say I was rude to the merchants, but I guess I just made it pretty obvious that I was shopping, and I meant business! Once I found something I was interested in, then I would ask the seller the price. The most important thing to remember is to NOT accept their first, or even second, price. Be firm -- just say no I'll give you this much for it (start looooow). Have a price in mind, and if they won't match it, walk away. If they come after you, stick to your price, and if they still won't meet it, walk away again. I did end up walking away from a few things I really wanted, but I had to stick to a budget so I just had to accept that I couldn't afford some things! Oh well!

The only one I really regret was this beautiful silk hallway rug, which would have looked splendid in my house. Every time I walk down that hallway I can still see it...