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 Going to garage sales was not always a passion for me. Why would people want to buy other people's "used" items? I simply could not fathom it. That was until someone implored me to look for a playpen for her pet duck. Yes, a playpen for a duck! Since I liked this person a lot, I acquiesced to find her a playpen for Lucky. That was ten years ago. I have been garage sale hunting ever since!
What I discovered at garage sales, is that there is much more than just the "sales" that drive people out early on a Saturday morning. It can be the camaraderie achieved with your traveling friends. My husband and I have a routine, beginning with checking out the listings in the local papers the evening before to getting my 24 ounce cup of coffee and bagel at Wawa after the first "hit."
Secondly, going to garage sales fills all sorts of needs for all sorts of people. Moms with little children will find an incredible array of great toys and merchandise for their youngsters that a little bit of Clorox can make new in seconds! Shopaholics will satiate their "need to spend" without breaking the bank.
Antique-lovers can find unusual things that sell for much less than an antique store. The trick is that you need to have a "feel" for what you are purchasing. Consider specializing in one "collectible category" and find out as much as you can about it.
People on a mission to travel "down memory lane" will undoubtedly find a litany of items on their quest. Items that you had given up for "dead" long ago now suddenly make a re-appearance as if by magic! New-nesters can find a great array of brand-new appliances, gadgets, dishware and more.
Pay special attention to the neighborhoods where you do your garage sale hunting. Generally, in the newer the developments you will find a greater proliferation of children's toys and clothing (usually excellent to new). Older neighborhoods may offer older merchandise - seniors downsizing are some of my favorite sellers. They have loved their items for all of their lives and suddenly lack the space for them in their new apartments. I consider it a privilege to protect a bit of their family's history for them.
Happy hunting!
Melinda Williams is the managing partner of The Williams Group, a nostalgic marketing, advertising, photography and PR company located in Downingtown, PA. Visit their website at www.TheWilliamsGroup.info or email them at melinda@thewilliamsgroup.info. |
