If you are new here, be sure to read the first posts in this Consignment Sale series here, here and here!
Here are a few tips to help you when you are shopping at a consignment sale!
Make yourself a size chart for each child
Because the items have been washed and dried, the tag size is really not accurate any longer so make sure to bring actual measurements with you. Before you go, gather up a few items that fit your child well (shoes, long-sleeved shirts, pants, etc) and take measurements with a cloth tape measure.
Shop without children
If at all feasible, don’t take your kids. If you have to shop with children make sure to check if they allow children because some consignment sales will not allow kids. If you do take children, make sure to be prepared because this is not a sale that you run in and grab one thing and your done.
Bring several bags or baskets
Sometimes there are bags available for shopping, but you may still need a bag or basket to carry your items to the car. I find cloth or reusable shopping bags to be perfect for consignment sale shopping.
Shop Early
For the best selection, go on the first day. Many sales run for two or three days, usually Thursday, Friday and Saturday with at least the last several hours on Saturday being a 50% off sale! Some sales will let consignors and volunteer workers in to an early preview sale before the general public is allowed in. Volunteering to work a short shift is a wonderful way to get the best selection.
Allow three or four hours for shopping
You will need time to shop, review your selections and wait in line! Lines on the first day of the sale are often long, and you don’t want to rush yourself.
Use the grab and go method
Grab any item you think you like, hold onto it and weed through your selections at the end. Many sales provide a place to look over all of your selections. Looking through the items you’ve picked will allow you to measure for fit and compare prices, value, quality and practicality before purchasing. At this time you can also add up all your selections to make sure you are still within your budget.
I hope that by using these tips you have a successful shopping trip without breaking the bank! Join me this weekend as I show you the results of my shopping trip.
