CityView Magazine

the Fayetteville area making available items such as high-end and everyday clothing, shoes, home goods, toys, homeschooling materials, baby equipment and furniture. Consumers who buy used items say these outlets are a great way to not only get rid of items they no longer need, but to find new treasures at a competitive price. As children grow (and outgrow) quickly, parents will oſten sell items in the hopes to making enough to cover what they intend to buy. Business women know they can keep their work attire fashionable and affordable by buying trends second-hand. The good news for con- signors is that styles change constantly. Take inventory of what you may have to sell, and watch the sales floor of your favorite shop as new merchandise rolls in. Or call ahead and ask about a store's most wanted items. According to the Association of Resale Professionals, "Re- sale shopping attracts consumers from all economic levels. There is no typical resale shopper, just as there is no typ- ical resale shop. No one is immune to the excite- ment of finding a treasure and saving money." Allison Newton of High Cotton Consign- ment says her ideal customers are 'frugal- istas' who appreciate quality apparel and home goods at a discounted price. "We all have things of value that we have either outgrown, changed our style, or are look- ing to sell to supplement our income," she said. With nearly 1200 consignors, Newton says it's imperative that her business gain trust among clients (both buyers and sellers), appreciate the value of their items, and price them accordingly. Have kids to clothe and don't want to pay retail? Con- sider consignment sales that draw huge crowds and allow you to earn up to 70 to 75 percent of what you sell. "Many moms have gone from buying consigned items as the norm rather than the exception," said Boyd and Lori Dellinger, who oper- ate the gigantic Hugs and Kisses Consignment Sale that takes place twice a year. They say you can find just about any brand of clothing, toys, kid furniture or baby equipment inside these gatherings, and shopping early increases your selection. Cassi and Matt Bergevin of the con- signment sale Kids Exchange said, "Kids grow fast, and their clothes and shoes get little to no wear which makes them per- fect for consignment." Used items can be sold from retail store- fronts which are either 'resale' or 'consign- ment' in nature. How It Works 34 | November/December • 2012 dren's products are inspected to be sure they meet cur- rent safety standards and have not been recalled. With consignment shops, the seller retains ownership of items over a period of time and is paid aſter a sale is made. The seller is also responsible for leſtover items. At consignment sales, consumers gather at seasonal inter- vals to buy and sell outgrown items. Without a per- manent venue, most migrate to rented spaces in high traffic areas, publicizing their sale be- fore each event. Every seller, shopper and volunteer brings value to the process. Re- peat customers are almost guaranteed as anything you buy this season can be resold next time. changed sizes, or changed your mind," said Karese Faircloth, who owns Fay- etteville's Once Upon A Child and Pla- to's Closet. "If you're not wearing it, get cash for it!" If you're a shopper, friends won't know where your look came from, but they will notice your new style. Easy on the eyes — and the pocketbook. Recycle without worry: all resale toys and chil- have changed jobs, Resale shops offer cash on the spot for any- thing purchased by the store. They buy items that are clean, in style, and in great condition. "Maybe you "Our goal is to provide a way for families to generate some income by selling gently used children's items and also provide a great shopping experience for the bargain Children's events are fam- ily-friendly and frequented by parents and grandparents, alike, all looking to pay a fraction of department store prices. "Just register [online] to consign, price and tag items, then drop them off on receiving day," said Angela Lynch of Northwood Temple's Twice as Nice consignment sale, which recently celebrated its twenty- fiſth anniversary. "We do all the rest." Seller Guidelines If you're new to the concept, it's recommend- ed that you visit several stores or sales to find those that work for you. Clothing should be freshly laundered and pressed or dry- cleaned before being brought in for sale. The best sellers check the neck, cuffs, and hem; no stains or tears, no cooking or smoke odors. Handbags and shoes should be cleaned on the inside and out, and remember to bag all accessories. Prep work is to your benefit as the sooner your items are put out on the sales floor, the quicker you'll get paid.

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