In case you ever wondered just why your friends love to resale shop (what, the monetary savings and the ecological benefits aren’t enough? The shopping local aspects of helping your community? The thrill of the hunt?), I’m going to let you eavesdrop on some consignment and resale shop owners as they answer a question from a peer in Ohio. She asked:

What do you like the best about being a resale shop owner?

Here are the answers she got on a private discussion board online:

That’s easy. It’s the friends I’ve made that I wouldn’t have made otherwise.

Love the variety of work. There’s never the same day twice.

I like how it’s made me more creative, patient and wiser.

I have made amazing friends I would never have met otherwise.

Oh, and there’s the treasure hunting every day, too.

Every day is like Christmas seeing all the great things coming in.

Love meeting people and helping them dress their children adorably but affordable!!

I love being my own boss…

… love the relationships we’ve built with both our consignors and customers

My staff and customers, that it still feels giddy when I get a really fabulous consignment, that our donations are helping a really great charity, and I’m not gonna lie… my WARDROBE!

I love the challenge. I do things today that I never even dreamed about.

Dressing mannequins and changing the decor in the store. Sort of like playing barbies and playing house all at once.

The best part of owning a resale shop is the way you can run your own show, make a reasonable living and be a positive influence in your store and community that you serve.

The best part is loving my job (even after all these years).

Thanks to so many shopkeepers, including these Sponsors at HowToConsign.com, the proprietors of Upscale Fashions in GA,  Remarkable Resale in IL, Repeat Street in IL and many other shops across the continent!

I’ve known Kitty forever… or at least it seems that way, because she is a vibrant part of the resale industry. Long-time Board member and current President of The Association of Resale Professionals, her wisdom and professionalism are well-evident to her long-time customers and consignors. We’re so pleased that she agreed to this e-interview, and we are excited to spotlight her shop on our blog!

What you will find in the stop: A huge selection of stylish fashions for the entire family and home. From babies to moms and dads, there are enticing departments of in-style clothing and accessories for everyone in this 7500 square foot store. Since items must be three years old or newer to be accepted, you won’t find items from your grandma’s closet. There’s also an ever-changing great selection of home décor and small furniture.
 
Who you will meet in the store: A great group of gals of all ages work to make customers feel welcome. “We love to meet new people and spoil our old friends,” says Kitty Boyce, owner.

What they like best about Continue reading →

Recently, we sat down with Pamela J. Wilson, the owner of “For Arts’ Sake!” A New and Recycled Boutique.  The store supports local artists of all ages as well as the Melbourne Beach FL community.  In addition, a portion of the sales proceeds each month support local schools’ art and theatre programs which are in danger of being limited or eliminated altogether from Brevard County school curriculum.

Q.  What brought you to Melbourne Beach FL?

A.   I lived in Sarasota for 31 years so I’m technically a true Florida girl.  My late father lived on the east coast in nearby Grant/Valkaria area for 30 years.  When he became ill, I spent much more time in Brevard County and discovered the picturesque beaches, abundant parks and respect for historic buildings.  I was attracted to Melbourne Beach because of the small-town appeal.

Q. Why open a store?

A.  Having a store is Continue reading →