I’m on the search for deals as we all try to save money for ourselves and our family. I’ve already reported on some pretty amazing vacation deals for spring and summer; along with a taste and cost comparison of name and store brands. (see channel3000.com, click on the “money” tab, then “smart savings” column for past segments)
This time it’s all about shopping for clothes and home-goods in a thrifty manner. A new survey from the National Retail Federation shows shopping for specialty department store items is no longer a “must have;” while shopping discount or thrift is one of the top things consumer are not willing to give up!
We hit a local re-sale store with Barbara; who says she turned to thrift, after finding a new, still-tagged, $90 pair of Ralph Lauren pants— for $8.99. Now; she’s donating then shopping, up to twice a week. Pillows for less than a few bucks, glassware for 99-cents. She suggests knowing what you need and opening your mind to what you may find!
Here’s a few places we found while working on this report: –HospiceCare Thrift Store, 122 Junction Road, Madison (608) 833-4556 (Charming, clean, well-organized. Everything from home decor to jewelry to antiques. Items are donated with money supporting the work of HospiceCare, Inc.) –Goodwill Industries with several locations but main donation/store site is 4530 Verona Road, Madison (608) 271-4687 (Clean, bright, quality controlled and labeled. Everything you can think of at rock bottom prices. Items donated with money supporting Goodwill.) –Salvation Army Family Store, 1721 Thierer Road, Madison (608) 244-2321 (Newly painted, items ready to use without much fuss, fixing or clean up. Items donated with money supporting Salvation Army efforts.)
Re-sale or Consignment (clothes or goods may be sold for individuals and money-made is shared): –Boomerangs Resale, 1133 N.Sherman Ave., Madison (608) 268-0793 (Gently used items via donations. Supports local charities.) –Ladie Moxie, 6706 Odana Rd., Madison (608) 826-4268 (Nice clothes with a great display.) –Pink Poodle, 6017 Odana Rd., Madison (608) 276-7467 (Upscale clothing, purses, shoes in a huge department store-like atmosphere.)
Baby/Maternity Specific: –”Just Between Friends” brings consignors and sellers together under one big roof, twice-a-year. www.JBFsale.com (Spring sale complete; but featured barely used to new baby clothes, books, toys, furniture and maternity clothes. Next sale October 16-18, 2009.) –Half-Pint Resale/Consignment sale of children’s and maternity clothing. www.halfpintresale.googlepages.com (March 27 + 28 at Madison Labor Temple) –Madison Mothers of Multiples Resale/Consignment sale of maternity and children’s clothes and equipment. www.madisonmothersofmultiples.com (April 4th, Keva Sports Center, Middleton)
And share your savings stories with me: tbarr@wisctv.com
