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Shop, Sell, Save…Smart!

Here are some basic life facts I have learned from being a Mother…

1)    If I do not carry a change of clothing, one of my children will have an accident.

2)    If we are in a hurry to leave the house, at least one family member will not be able to find their shoes.

3)    At some point, at least once every six months, something electronic is going into my toilet.

4)    My kiddies are going to grow and change daily and I need to enjoy every minute!

These are the facts at my house.  Along with the growing and changing in fact #4 comes the inevitable and ever-increasing cost associated with raising children.  Their clothing, toys, educational items, baby gear and more are so expensive!  I read an estimate the other day that said most people spend an average of $10,000 in their baby’s first year of life on everything from insurance co-pays to diapers.  That is a ton of money and it is figures like those that made me seek something better  Something better than $200 strollers, $60 slings and $30 jeans that my children would grow out of in 3-4 months.  My family needed  a break and I found one!

A friend handed me a colorful postcard advertising Just Between Friends, a children’s consignment sale in the community where I lived at the time.  What I experienced on my first visit to a Just Between Friends sale turned my stressed about growing kids, worried about expenses, world, upside down!  All I could think while I was shopping this huge, organized, bargain hunters dream was how much this type of sale was needed in Central Iowa.  Fast forward a couple years and here we are preparing for our third event in Des Moines with the goal of helping families save money on everything they need from newborn to teen!

JBF is a children’s and maternity consignment event happening once in the spring and once in the fall.  There are 140 sales all around the country run by moms just like us who have a desire to get great bargains, bring money back into their homes, recycle their children’s items and help their community.  And, the bonus, its sooooo easy!

Learn more about how this works!

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A Momma’s Secret Weapon

Just Between Friends – A Momma’s Secret Weapon

Dirt, holes, stains, wear and tear!  This is the story for the poor clothing that comes into my home.  I have 2 little boys and, seriously, jean knees don’t stand a chance.  T-shirts . . . give up!  The battle has been lost!  This used to drive me crazy!  I would come into a room and find one child had covered the other in organic peanut butter and honey and my day would be ruined.  Hello!  Can a momma get a shower around here!

My whole perspective was changed in an instant when a friend handed me a colorful postcard advertising Just Between Friends, a children’s consignment sale in the community where I lived at the time.  What I experienced on my first visit to a Just Between Friends sale put my “stressed about stains” world into a whirlwind of excitement.  Here in front of me was a huge, very organized, bargain hunters dream!  You mean I can buy cute clothing that won’t break the bank and make me cry when the boys ruin them!  Yeah . . . I was hooked!  Life moved us around quite a bit and we have had the opportunity to shop larger, well-established Just Between Friends sales and smaller ones that were just getting started.  As we’ve wandered, my husband and I have consistently wondered why no one had started an event like this in our hometown.  We just knew this type of sale was needed in Central Iowa.  Fast forward a couple years and here we are preparing for our third event in Des Moines with the goal of helping families save money on everything they need from newborn to teen!  JBF is a children’s and maternity consignment event happening once in the spring and once in the fall.  There are over a hundred sales all around the country run by families just like yours and mine who have a desire to get great bargains, bring money back into their homes, recycle their children’s items and help their community.

Here’s how it works:

  1. You tag your items using our easy, online tagging system.  You even set your own prices and write your own descriptions.  JBF gives a listing of recommended price points, but you can price your items and describe them however you like.
  2. You drop your items at the event and we take it from there.  We inspect for recalls, stains, missing parts and anything else that would keep items from being a great find for our shoppers.
  3. You shop!  Really, this is the fun part!  You will save 50-90% on clothing, shoes, toys, educational games, bikes, outdoor toys, books and more!
  4.  At the end of the sale, you can pick-up your unsold items or we can donate them for you and give you a tax deduction slip from the charity we have partnered with for the sale.
  5. You get paid!

We are run by volunteers, mostly moms and dads, just like you.  Our volunteers earn a higher percentage on their items and they get to shop first!  We always partner with a charity who will receive any donated items after the sale.

We invite you to join us April 5-7 at Events Center West in West Des Moines.  We are accepting consignors for this event and online signup is simple and fast.  For all the details on how to sign up, what we accept and more, check us out at jbfsale.com/desmoines and see how consigning can help you shop, sell and save!  Now that’s smart!    Stains . . .You can’t run my day!

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Tagsellit.com New Website Coming Soon

Coming soon to your screens… A new and improved Tagsellit.com!

Our team is excited to be launching a new and improved website. In addition, we’ll also have a new iPhone and Android App available for mobile users. The new site will feature a fun new user interface, graphic design and layout.

Navigating the second-hand marketplace can be challenging. This is why our new site will be also dedicated to assisting second-hand retailers (such as Consignment Shops, Estate Sale Events and Pawn Shops) generate better visibility and offer more solutions to drive interest to their places of business.

As our mission says, our goal is to provide a big-picture roadmap for navigating the second-hand industry. Tagsellit.com’s platform helps sellers liquidate second-hand items through both our online virtual garage sale listings and with the ability for users to advertise their weekend sale events (for free). Tagsellit.com brings second-hand buyers and sellers together.

Did you know the yard sale market alone is an annual billion-dollar industry? There’s a lot of value hidden in closets, garages, basements and attics across the country. Generations of “crap” have accumulated and what’s “old” may be “new” …and worth lots of money!

Bottom line: Expect to be dazzled soon! We’ve revolutionized the garage sale industry by creating the “virtual garage sale” marketplace and we’re continuing to revolutionize the entire second-hand industry!

 

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Second Hand Fashion-A Starter’s Guide

Hello!

I feel like I am forever trying to get my friends into second hand fashion, and I get a little resistance. Until they try it that is. Getting started with second hand fashion can seem a little overwhelming and to be frank…a little gross. Wearing a strangers clothes? No thanks. Calm those fears and get ready to save some money because I can assure you that with a few pointers, you’ll be on your way to creating a well rounded wardrobe of quality clothing for a fraction of what it cost brand new.

1.) What do you need?

It’s important to consider what kind of clothing you are looking for BEFORE you set out shopping. Do you needs basics? Work clothes? Shoes? You get the picture. This is key because second hand stores are not laid out in the traditional retail style with multiple size runs in each garment. Instead clothing will by categorized by style and gender. By knowing what you’re looking for, you can breeze through the racks without being overwhelmed by the sheer volume of…stuff.

2.) Where should I go?

Thrift stores are generally reflective of the neighborhood they are housed in. So consequently, more affluent neighborhoods are going to have higher quality, name brand clothing that has more than likely been gently used and occasionally still have tags attached. Find out what second hand stores are in the wealthy neighborhoods in your community and chances are it will be more like thrift score than thrift store.

3.) Brand name blinders

Ideally we’re all looking to score a great designer piece at an amazingly low price…but don’t be focused on tags alone. That great Ralph Lauren blazer you scored for work does indeed have a Ralph Lauren tag in it, but all anyone will be able to see are the shoulder pads and the large brass buttons. Don’t do that. Designers have been designers for a long time and the pieces found in a second hand store can be reflective of a different time in fashion. Try to look at the items that spark your interest for what they are, not who they are made by. On the flip side of this coin, you will find the occasional piece that is not only designer, but totally fabulous in fit and styling. In this case, high five yourself and buy it quickly!

4.) Modification in moderation

Some pieces are so great..if the sleeves were just a little shorter or the rosettes on the lapel were’t there. Much like DIY projects for the house it’s easy to ge real crafty in your head and imagine a total overhaul of an outfit at your own hands because it’s SUCH a good deal. You’re enthusiasm is in the right place but be sure to be realistic. Do you know how to sew, or to the ability to seriously modify the garment? Are you up for paying a tailor to make the changes for you? Small changes such as lengths of hems or missing buttons are an easy fix that shouldn’t detour you from a purchase but a major makeover is probably a waste of money.

5.) “This looks gross…”

It probably is…anything that looks really heavily worn is a pass. Just keep on moving.

6.) HAVE FUN!

This is probably the most important tip of all. Whether you go to brunch with girlfriends and hit the second hand stores after or embark on a solo mission, this is great R+R. There will be days you find nothing and there will be days you can’t choose because there is so much. There is no one else like you in the whole world so make your style your own…when you feel good about yourself it shows.

Check out the video below as I take you to some of Denver’s best thrift stores…

XOXOX

Kelly

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Resale or Retail?

The past five years have brought a tremendous new perspective to the resale shopping world. Frugal living has become a popular trend among many households and with the ever changing global environment, the “reduce, reuse, recycle” mantra has become more popular than ever. NARTS, (The Association of Resale Professionals) probably has the best perspective on resale vs. retail industry statistics and trends today. The resale industry offeres quality second hand items with fabulous savings.

We decided we would highlight some of the cool fun facts about the current industry statistics and trends of the resale industry that NARTS has published.

  • The resale industry is healthy and is one of the fastest growing segments of retail
  • The industry has experienced a 7% growth rate per year in the last two years (reflected by the estimated number of new resale stores opening each year, less the businesses that close)
  • NARTS provides invaluable continuing education to members that enhances the success of business owners and the industry as a whole
  • NARTS reports that there are over 25,000 resale, consignment and not-for-profit resale shops across the United States
  • Resale is a multi-billion dollar a year industry
  • Goodwill Industries alone generated $2.69 billion in retail sales from more than 2,500 Not For Profit resale stores across America in 2010
  • Buffalo Exchange began with a 450 sq. ft. shop in 1974, has grown to 43 stores plus 2 franchises in fifteen states, they employ more than 700 people and generated annual revenues of $64.4 million in 2010
  • Crossroads Trading Co., based in Berkeley, CA, rang up over $20 million in sales last year at its 27 stores with plans to add additional locations

Resale shopping attracts consumers of all economic backgrounds and levels and continues to blossom thanks to value-conscious consumers. “According to America’s Research Group, a consumer research firm, about 16 – 18% of Americans will shop at a thrift store during a given year. For consignment/resale shops, it’s about 12 – 15%. To keep these figures in perspective, consider that during the same time frame; 11.4% of Americans shop in factory outlet malls, 19.6% in apparel stores and 21.3% in major department stores.”

“With an increasing awareness of the importance of reducing pointless waste, we are progressing from a disposable society to a recycling society—a change that has enormous market potential for the resale industry as a whole. After all, “Resale is the ultimate in recycling!”

Source: NARTS

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Tag Sell It Welcomes Just Between Friends Consignment Franchisees

In 2011 we launched our Consignment Shop Directory on Tag Sell It. Less than two years later, almost 200 consignment shops from around the country have listed their services in our directory, a resource where people can locate and learn about consignment professionals and services in their area. We’re excited to announce that we recently welcomed the Just Between Friends Franchisees to join our directory! Just Between Friends is the nation’s leading children’s and maternity consignment sales event franchise.

CEO Jonathon Papsin of Tag Sell It Inc. and CEO Shannon Wilburn of Just Between Friends each share a passion for the rapidly growing resale and second hand industries. “Through a strategic alignment, both of our businesses win,” says Jonathon. “We’re excited to welcome more consignment services to our directory and the Just Between Friends Franchisees benefit tremendously from using Tag Sell It’s free listing platform to gain greater exposure when advertising their consignment sale events they host in their communities throughout the year.”

According to the NARTS (National Association of Resale Professionals) website, “Resale is a multi-billion dollar a year industry. First Research estimates the resale industry in the U.S. to have annual revenues of approximately $13 billion.” “Resale shopping attracts consumers from all economic levels. There is no typical resale shopper, just as there is no typical resale shop.” “The resale market is blossoming thanks to value-conscious consumers. With an increasing awareness of the importance of reducing pointless waste, we are progressing from a disposable society to a recycling society—a change that has enormous market potential for the resale industry as a whole. After all, “Resale is the ultimate in recycling!”

 

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Too Much Clutter

When was the last time you saw your closet floor or were able to find something in your closet in less than three seconds? For some, it’s probably been a while, and that generally means you have accumulated more clutter than you realize. Closet clutter includes all the clothes that you rarely wear, or may never wear again. If this is the case, it’s time to purge your closet! Too often, people wait until they downsize their home or lifestyle to clean out their closets and they miss great opportunities such as consignment or better yet, donating clothes for the benefit of tax write-offs! Our friends at 1-800-GOT-JUNK? published an article last year, titled, “Ten indications that it’s time to purge your closet.”

Which ones apply to your closet?

  1. You hold on to a shirt you wouldn’t normally wear, because you “could maybe use it for a theoretical costume party”
  2. You are planning on wearing some items when you lose or gain weight
  3. You haven’t worn some items in over a year
  4. You come across clothing you forgot you had
  5. You’ve been holding on to things because they “go with one other thing I have but I don’t know where that thing is,” but you’re hoping to find it one day
  6. You have an entire drawer of T-shirts that represents every volunteer opportunity or job you have ever had
  7. You keep damaged items because you will fix them one day (but you still haven’t gotten around to it)
  8. You keep every gift you get, in case you have a family reunion where you’ll need to wear that Christmas sweater dear Aunt Bertha knit for you
  9. You have more than one item of clothing per hanger, and a lot of hangers
  10. You can’t see the floor, and you aren’t even sure what color it is (or was)

If any of the above apply to you, it’s time to do some cleaning, sorting and donating. You might also want to package some clothes to take to your local Consignment Boutique.

Don’t forget, if you have other closets (attics, basements or garages) full of clutter, give our friends at 1-800-GOT-JUNK? a call right away! They’ve got the muscle and the trucks ready to haul your junk away!

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Thrift Style Living

Today we’re excited to introduce and feature LaCheryl Cillie, founder of Thrift Style Living. Over the last thirteen years of collecting antiques, LaCheryl has developed an enormous passion for auctions and estate sales. “There is an excitement that bubbles from deep within for such events,” she says. Here’s an insight into her business and passions, along with some great tips for everyone!

Remember the first apartment, or your first house? You found a great place, but you could not afford a bedroom or living room furniture, and you did not know where to go or who to talk with to get what you wanted at a price you could afford. Maybe you just simply love to dress but find the ever rising cost of quality clothing and accessories not so affordable in a tough economy – that was me and the start of it all!

How do I continue to get the best in a tough economy without giving up quality, or becoming buried in a mountain of debit? Thrift Style Living was born to offer solutions and answers in a tough economy! This “how to be a savvy shopper website” seeks to arm the average consumer with knowledge so they know how to recognize and shop for the best, whether it is furniture, general household items, designer clothing, jewelry or antiques and collectibles.
I have been doing estate sales, and have been a licensed auctioneer for over a decade.
I have also written a book about understanding estate sales, auctions, and second hand shopping.

My 5 Pieces of  Advice for People Making a Conscience Lifestyle Change:

  1. Be open minded about shopping all of the different second hand venues. Flea markets, auctions, estate sales, garage sales, pawn shops, thrift stores, consignment stores, online stores and websites – A diamond in the rough could be anywhere at any time!
  2. Educate your eyes – Be sure to visit traditional retail settings, or places which will aid you in the recognition and understanding the value of quality items. Also check out decorating or trade magazines , newsletters and price guides.
  3. Do not buy junk – Search for quality! If you look long enough you can find what you are looking for. Just do not give up, be patient. It is better to buy high quality used items than poorly made new things.
  4. Always buy what you love – But it is always helpful to think in terms of possible investment or resale of an an item, either locally or online.
  5. The money saved or made as a result of thrifting can be used to fund other other areas of your life.

Favorite Shopping Venues

  • My favorite second hand shopping venues are thrift stores and estate sales!

All Time Favorite Thrift Store Find

  • Assorted Victorian Sterling Silver Goblets, Flatware, Saucers bought for 25 cents to 3.88 each
  • Coco Chanel Vest for 4.99, Prada Jacket $19.00, Donald Pliner Italian Leather Shoes $3.88. Christian Dior Chapeau for $0.59.

Final Comments
Thrift is not a dirty word and “The Best Can Cost Less!” - Quality Counts!

Be sure to check out LaCheryl’s website: www.thriftstyleliving.com

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Decorating on a Dime: On a Quest for the Best

We’re excited to feature and introduce Sophie Stone today to our series “Decorating on a Dime.” Sophie is an Award Winning Residential Interior Designer. She has been decorating homes in Palm Beach for the past 15 years. Her passion for helping others decorate their dream homes led her to found ChateauSophie.com, a vintage inspired online boutique for women, kids and home.

“Finding the perfect piece for my clients’ homes has taken me to exotic destinations where I’ve been on the “hunt” for some of the most unique decorative pieces in the world. This quest for unique home decor has also made me an avid buyer at Estate Sales, Auctions, Consignment and Second Hand Shops wherever in the world I happen to be (Palm Beach or somewhere in Europe too)!”

1. I repurposed one of my bejeweled vintage handbags (circa 1930′s $54.99) found at ChateauSophie.com as a decorative object in an étagère I was recently decorating. Tired of looking at the predictable ensemble of china plates, crystal and figurines, I knew this piece was perfect! Hung gracefully off the handle of an antique silver tea pot, it sparkled like a gem. Unpredictable yet perfect, exactly the way I like to decorate!

2. On the hunt for office decor, I spotted these two vintage candlesticks at a designer’s consignment shop in North Palm Beach ($25.00 for the pair, I’m sure the former owner would gasp)! Their small scale was perfect, as they needed to fit on a bookshelf for a custom library I was decorating. Offset by the rich mahogany bookcase, I knew their white ceramic glaze would stand out. Not too shabby on a bookcase that cost thousands!

3. Vintage oil paintings always catch my eye and this one at the Second Hand Shop was no exception. The sailboat scene had extraordinary detail set in a carved wood gilded frame. The oil paint used by the artist should a rich and I knew instantly that it had some real history; not to mention at $59.00 it was a steal! I used it to fill in the space between my two vintage candlesticks on the bookshelf and it worked beautifully. I achieved a “collector’s” look for a total of $85.00!

4. Vintage Wall Art for a Kid’s Room is ideal for a Shabby Chic Theme. My collection of Vintage Campbell’s Soup Signs ($29.99 each) found at ChateauSophie.com works beautifully tucked on a bookshelf or as grouping on the wall.

5. While decorating a French Country Bedroom, I was in need of 2 mirrored chest of drawers for either side of a bed. With a custom floral patterned comforter and silk draped canopy lined with tassel fringe, mirrored furniture would reflect the beautiful details and soften the space. I found two mirrored chests at a Fine Consignment Shop. They had been there for a while so I was able to bargain with the price and bought them both for $299.

Now my job was to make them look like heirloom pieces. First, I started with changing the color. They were stained a dark brown so I had them silver leafed and then rubbed with an antique gold glaze. I also highlighted the framed details in antique gold. This instantly gave them a rich and elegant look that fit perfectly into the French Country Bedroom. I topped them off with a soft cream colored marble top and now they look like they are indeed from a French Chateau!

You learn more about Sophie and her amazing projects on her website, http://www.chateausophie.com/about_sophie.php

A Passion for Consignment

Anyone can tell you having a strong passion for what they do has elevated their level of excellence to serve others and be successful in business. We recently interviewed some Consignment Industry all-stars to find out what keeps their passion alive and why they wanted to get into the Consignment Business. Here’s what we learned: [...]