Bargain shopping for babies
As a new mommy, I am always on the lookout for places to find good deals on used baby items and clothes, and always eager to pass on information on opportunities I wish I had known about sooner.
Just Between Friends is a consignment sale that another new mommy friend from church recently told me about. It takes place over the course of a weekend, or sometimes a full week; once in the spring and once in the fall, in 14 states across the country (dates are different for different cities, and the locations vary from churches to convention centers). If you consign your own items, you get to set your own price ($3 minimum, but you can group items together), and you can specify on each item whether or not you will accept less (last day of the sale is half-price day) or not. You also have the option of donating any unsold items to a local charity, and you'll get a tax-deductible receipt. You can also shop before the general public if you participate as a consignor or volunteer, or if you are a new mommy or teacher. They have baby, kids, and maternity clothes; and toys, gear, and furniture; and it sounds like they are well-organized and do a fairly good job of only accepting items in good condition (no stains, etc.). Click here to visit the website and find out dates, locations, and other information. Many sales are coming up soon, mostly in March and April. There is one just five minutes from our house the week before Rebecca's birthday, and I'm hoping to find some spring/summer clothes (particularly dresses); either a rocking chair or rocking horse; and of course, some more books.
I have found consignment shops, donation-type shops, and garage sales to be hit-or-miss in terms of finding what I am looking for, but Just Between Friends sounds like it will have a much larger selection. Other sources of used items I recommend (besides friends and neighbors who are willing to share for free) include craigslist.com, mothers of multiples groups (we got our Pali cherry crib and matching changing table/dresser this way for $250 for both), and public library sales (10-cent board books!).
Just Between Friends is a consignment sale that another new mommy friend from church recently told me about. It takes place over the course of a weekend, or sometimes a full week; once in the spring and once in the fall, in 14 states across the country (dates are different for different cities, and the locations vary from churches to convention centers). If you consign your own items, you get to set your own price ($3 minimum, but you can group items together), and you can specify on each item whether or not you will accept less (last day of the sale is half-price day) or not. You also have the option of donating any unsold items to a local charity, and you'll get a tax-deductible receipt. You can also shop before the general public if you participate as a consignor or volunteer, or if you are a new mommy or teacher. They have baby, kids, and maternity clothes; and toys, gear, and furniture; and it sounds like they are well-organized and do a fairly good job of only accepting items in good condition (no stains, etc.). Click here to visit the website and find out dates, locations, and other information. Many sales are coming up soon, mostly in March and April. There is one just five minutes from our house the week before Rebecca's birthday, and I'm hoping to find some spring/summer clothes (particularly dresses); either a rocking chair or rocking horse; and of course, some more books.
I have found consignment shops, donation-type shops, and garage sales to be hit-or-miss in terms of finding what I am looking for, but Just Between Friends sounds like it will have a much larger selection. Other sources of used items I recommend (besides friends and neighbors who are willing to share for free) include craigslist.com, mothers of multiples groups (we got our Pali cherry crib and matching changing table/dresser this way for $250 for both), and public library sales (10-cent board books!).
posted by Elisabeth | 6:02 PM
3 Comments:
I love these sales!!! I usually go to 2 or 3 a season! They are especially great for baby/toddler girls because people usually have so many clothes they don't wear them much.
Tips: Leave kids at home if possible, if you shop the presale bring a laundry basket you can slide along with you, your arms start hurting quick! The idea is to shop fast so if you think you are interested throw it in your basket and then find you a spot and slowly go through and make your selections. If you need some furniture hit this first and grab the tag off of what you want. The presale is the best if you can volunteer or consign it is worth it!
These are fun, most of them I have been to everyone is down to business, but not rude. There is usually plenty to go around!
Have fun!!!!
Have you been to Young and Restless? I used to love going there. They moved into a larger building just last summer. They have consignment and some new stuff too. Their web address is http://youngandrestless.net/.
I love the Moms of Multiples sale twice a year too in the Houston area. Wish we had one of those here, or if they do, I don't know about it.
I got some great deals on good children's books and some newborn unisex clothing just a few weeks ago at a consignment store called Once Upon a Child that we have around here.
I am just so impressed at how you young moms figure out the best deals. It is quite a treasure hunt.
You are amazing.
Aunt Cindy
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