Have you noticed lately how people brag about the bargains they find? In this economy, saving money has become a badge of honor. If you want to bargain hunt or treasure hunt, a good place to start is Goodwill. There are fourteen stores in our region. While most retailers are struggling, Goodwill is seeing a big bump in sales. Frankly, you can't beat their sales. On the day I visited the Fairfield store this week all skirts, shirts, and kids clothing were on sales for 50 cents an item. Yes, 50 cents!
I would say there are two types of shoppers that visit Goodwill or any thrift store for that matter. There are practical shoppers and fashionistas.
The practical shopper: They either need or want a good deal. Clothing is the biggest seller for Goodwill, and that's likely their target. We know that children outgrow their clothing and shoes quickly. This is a good way to fill in their wardrobe with a few new pieces. Or maybe you want to avoid a big purchase. You could grab a prom dress or a new suit for $30. The folks at The Ohio Valley Goodwill tell me they're seeing a lot of new faces -- middle class faces who are living with a tight budget.
The fashionista: This is the fashion guru who either can't afford designer labels or just loves treasure hunting. At the Fairfield store I came across a pair of Salvatore Ferragamo flats for $80. Expensive -- yes, but a lot cheaper than the $400 it would cost you at a department store. Dooney & Bourke plus Coach purses are also popular, and should be like new. Check out the jewelry cases too. I'm told after a tough breakup, some pricey items end up getting donated. You will find real gold and real diamonds. Right now, there's a Cartier watch in the cabinet!
If you don't like the idea of second hand clothing, you could always save on books, furniture, and toys. The Fairfield store had a neat ittle selection of wall art. I felt like I was browsing in HomeGoods or T.J. Maxx.
Now, lets face it. Some people just aren't second hand shoppers. That's fine. Do what I do -- donate your items, make someone else happy and in the end you'll save on your tax return! Just remember to get a receipt and keep it in a safe place until April.
I would say there are two types of shoppers that visit Goodwill or any thrift store for that matter. There are practical shoppers and fashionistas.
The practical shopper: They either need or want a good deal. Clothing is the biggest seller for Goodwill, and that's likely their target. We know that children outgrow their clothing and shoes quickly. This is a good way to fill in their wardrobe with a few new pieces. Or maybe you want to avoid a big purchase. You could grab a prom dress or a new suit for $30. The folks at The Ohio Valley Goodwill tell me they're seeing a lot of new faces -- middle class faces who are living with a tight budget.
The fashionista: This is the fashion guru who either can't afford designer labels or just loves treasure hunting. At the Fairfield store I came across a pair of Salvatore Ferragamo flats for $80. Expensive -- yes, but a lot cheaper than the $400 it would cost you at a department store. Dooney & Bourke plus Coach purses are also popular, and should be like new. Check out the jewelry cases too. I'm told after a tough breakup, some pricey items end up getting donated. You will find real gold and real diamonds. Right now, there's a Cartier watch in the cabinet!
If you don't like the idea of second hand clothing, you could always save on books, furniture, and toys. The Fairfield store had a neat ittle selection of wall art. I felt like I was browsing in HomeGoods or T.J. Maxx.
Now, lets face it. Some people just aren't second hand shoppers. That's fine. Do what I do -- donate your items, make someone else happy and in the end you'll save on your tax return! Just remember to get a receipt and keep it in a safe place until April.
