by Monique Lung

An outing to the mall may stimulate your child and, debatably, the economy, but there are real rewards that reach beyond financial when you shop consignment or resale.

Typically, a family goal is to stretch their hard earned dollars when buying used items, but I have seen bigger rewards that serve children for a lifetime and beyond when parents form their child’s character through experiences inherent to the world of consignment/resale shopping.

Whether you are buying clothing, furniture or home décor most consignment and resale boutiques offer goods at 30%-40% off retail plus additional percentage markdowns until it sells. Inventory and quality varies depending upon the scrutiny of the store management. Consignment and Resale does not always mean items are used. Many boutiques sell brand-new items like infant clothing and accessories that make great gifts!

As the owner of a consignment boutique myself, I have seen shoppers leave happy to have saved money on new or like-new items but more importantly, I have witnessed life lessons unfold.

One inspiring example comes from a Tucker, GA. home-schooling mother of four children. Upon entry to the boutique, mom distributes each zip-lock bag of hard earned “allowance.” They know the drill. Mom stands back while kids scout out the clothes, toys, books and gear. Mom is nearby to help calculate pricing if markdowns apply.

The kids study the quality of the products, selecting some brands over others, and not always foregoing the latest trends for savings. Mom observes and guides kids through the dilemma of choice: delayed gratification while gambling on further markdown or going for the sure thing because it will surely be sold if you wait. (This is, in fact, the secret thrill that drives a passionate consignment shopper.) Her children prioritize and zero in on their purchases. Proudly, they head home flaunting their goods as if they were contest winnings!

This shrewd mother has just given her kids a real educational experience. Without realizing, these kids have just had an energized hour of math, problem-solving and decision making.

Another great example is a Dunwoody, GA., mother of two elementary school girls. This mom managed to enlist her daughters to consign their previously loved gear. The girls undoubtedly struggled to part with their things, but somehow, after evaluating the pros and cons, their outgrown goodies were consigned. Now, whenever the girls need new duds, mom brings them to the shop to spend what they each have in their store credit.

Today big sister had a shoe fetish while little sister opted for hip-retro fashions and cool Imported accessories. This mom doesn’t say much about their choices. The sisters exercise independence and in time they’ll learn if their purchases are wise or frivolous but always fun! Eventually, they will outgrow today’s purchases and consign them, too.

Life lessons learned? Absolutely. The girls discovered that by taking care of their belongings they can recycle their investments, they learned that pack rats don’t prosper. Furthermore, the sisters selected to donate to charity any items that don’t sell so they learn about humanitarianism and develop compassion.

Plus, when the girls shop consignment they benefit other families like theirs. Much like Bailey Savings & Loan in “It’s a Wonderful life,” purchases in a consignment boutique, help consignors who are often our neighbors. Mall or department store retailers don’t offer you that direct opportunity.

Although there are plenty of good used clothing sales out there the educational opportunities aren’t always present. If you prefer to shop at the used clothing sales such as church bazaars or flea markets, be selective. Clothes typically have safety pinned tags which will forever damage your purchase. Adequate lighting is not typically provided and once home you may discover discolorations and stains not previously visible. Dressing rooms are rarely provided. Many only take cash or checks. Much like a garage sale, most of your time is spent combing the racks for the like-new items. Boutiques filter through the goods saving you the hassle. Kid’s clothing sales often discourage you from bringing your child so returning home with a good fit is tricky, since manufacturers’ sizes differ.

No matter where you shop, by being a wise consumer and buying lightly-loved clothing sales can afford you the benefits of owning high-quality goods that are typically one-of-a-kind.

As a consignment shopper and owner, I challenge parents to consider the message they send their children and grandchildren when we exercise our dollar. There are great lessons in daily activities and consignment shopping is one more affordable avenue.

Freelance Writer, Monique Lung, is owner of Hanger-ROO, an upscale consignment boutique for maternity and children located at 5352 Peachtree Road, Atlanta, GA 30341. Open Tuesday – Friday 10a-4p & Saturday 10a-5p. Contact:770-451-8911
www.hanger-roo.com