Friday, October 31st - Closed

As I mentioned earlier, there would be a chance this Friday, Halloween I might be late, closing early or just closed. At this point, my schedule is pretty full with the kids and appointments so I am planning on being CLOSED this Friday, the 31st.

I probably will be in for a little bit in-between to do some inventory.

If you were planning on coming in and can only make it that day, call me Thursday and maybe we can set something up. Business will resume as usual on Saturday and as Saturdays are usually one of my slower days, please COME ON BY :)

Assuming Friday would be a slow day anyway, I hope this is not an inconvenience. If it is, again, call and I'll see what I can do for you.

Happy Friday/Halloween!

Tuesday Morning- Running a little late

Hey everyone-

I'll be about a half hour late this morning. My allergies have been rampant with this weather and I have been sniffling around the store scaring the moms. So I'm off to the drugstore to pick up some claritin and I'll be in as soon as I can get there!

Probably about 10:30.

Promised I'd post this week- I knew there would be some delays. Everything should be back to normal schedule by November 1st.

Thanks for understanding and please come by and shop still. I have my youngest the next few days so bring your kids and let them play!

Weekly Note and Halloween Comment

To those of you who don't check regularly, I wanted to take a chance to let you know that this week will be a little crazy with my personal schedule. I may have to run in and out a few times or be in late one or two days. I will note them on the blog, but if you are planning on swinging by right at 10 or right before 4, you might want to call first or check the site.

And Friday the 31st I will not just be in a little later than 10 due to school scheduling with my oldest daughter, but I might have to close early to attend an event at the school. Probably by 2:00. I have a feeling though that I probably won't be having a lot of customers around that time.

However, if you were planning on stopping by around then and there is something specific you are needing, call and let's make arrangements. I can also come by at other times occasionally for specific appointments if necessary.

I want to be a great store manager, but these things are SO important to my children and being a mother comes first (as I am sure it does to most of my readers/shoppers). So let me know if there is anything special I can do for you.

And I think I mentioned already, but just in case I haven't- this week all costumes are 10% off marked price and the last of the Halloween Tees will be $1.00. They won't be further discounted after Halloween either since my prices are already low. So if you are looking for a bargain for dress-up stuff for your kids and waiting for Halloween sales- this is mine! Call if you are looking for something special and I'll see what I can do for you.

No military discount again until the 1st- unless you can mention the paper where you saw our Ad that mentions we have a military discount. I'll post when it starts again. Remember your ID and I also post a sign on my bulletin board by the register on the days I am giving the discount.

That's it for the night. It has been an exhausting few days and my writing won't be very interesting. Won't bore you with mundane blogging. However, I may be lowering some of my prices on the new Baby Lulu I have in stock so don't be afraid to ask if the tag is the final price on those items. I'm not sure when I'll get to re-tagging them because I also want to get the rest of my items out. I'm really behind on inventory since the surgery.

As for appointments, I'll probably not be taking any this week except for possibly Thursday or Saturday. As usual, call and let's see what we can do.

Thanks for reading/shopping/contributing!

Friday Mornings and other blurbs...

So, my posting has been a lot less than I would like. And for all of you out there following my blog, sorry for nothing interesting recently! I have been a little out of sync the past month. Personal issues, surgery, too many late nights and early mornings, and just the general a lot on my mind like most of us moms have right now. Especially in this economy! Which is why you should shop at my store.... Resale, Recycle, High Quality for Less. Really, if you picture resale as a crowded, stuffy space with racks that are disorganized that you have to pick through for what you are looking for or a decent brand- think again. I promise my store really has the "boutique" atmosphere. One of my goals is to make my customers feel they are in an expensive boutique, getting their kids pampered and themselves personal attention/shopping ideas, but with out only $50 outfits to choose from. Sure, on my new racks I have expensive boutique items, but they are all marked 20% or more off retail. And my resale stuff is all hand-picked by me and taken care of as if it was my own children's clothing.




Speaking of my new items, here's some pictures of some adorable new baby nay and Baby Lulu USA I have in stock for less than retail. I have seen the cheap Baby Lulu on eBay like everyone else. Do you know most of it is now made in China or fakes? That's why a dress is selling new on eBay for $20 instead of $44. I may not have this season's runway styles in, but they are all originals and since they are earlier seasons or years I can buy them for less and therefore pass on that bargain to you and sell the items for less.




Look at this baby nay romper. Love the lace butt! I have some matching long sleeve knit dresses if you like the pattern.

And here are just a few of my new Baby Lulu in stock. I have lots more to still inventory also. And even a pretty good selection of used if you are a big fan of Baby Lulu but can't (or don't want) to pay for the new stuff.


I have other brands coming in and out all the time. Some boutique, some random (like Old Navy or Janie & Jack) but mostly girl. My selection of new boy clothes is adequate but not where I would like it to be. I hope to be working with some other boutiques on consignment to get their new items in the store and pass on the discount to you guys. My deals are yours!



I can't believe it is two AM already! It is hard enough to get enough rest being a mom, but add being a working mom and forgetaboutit.



Note of importance! Friday mornings I am going to be volunteering in my oldest daughter's classroom. Now most of the time it won't take very long (I am sorting and redistributing books) but occasionally it might. Therefore, I might be running a few minutes late some Fridays. Think between 10-10:30. Once I get a system down, I can probably do it faster also. So if by chance you get there before me, I am on my way. Kick back, have a cup of coffee and/or read a magazine while hopefully baby is sleeping from the car ride or even better, the kids are at school and this may be the only break you get!



On the topic of waiting, since I work by myself I have to lock up if I need to step out for a moment. I might need to use the restroom, talk to a neighbor, grab a snack, etc. I'm never out longer than 5-10 minutes and usually even less. If that's the case, I put the closed sign up with a note "Be Right Back!" and I will so don't get frustrated and leave. And if for some reason I have to go run a quick errand or an emergency comes up, I will post a sign saying so and when and if I will be back. This has very rarely happened. Occasionally I do have an appointment or something in the morning and I will post on this site on which day I will be coming in a little later or leaving a little early, etc. Also rare, but sometimes necessary. I am pretty much always in the store during open hours, but if some emergency comes up or nature calls I have to lock up for Security reasons but there is always a posting on the door. Give it a minute or two and there I will be! I am always afraid to step out for a moment because I don't want to inconvenience anyone but I have to be realistic and I figure most people are reasonable and understandable and so, I thank you ahead of time if you have to wait a couple minutes every now and then. It has rarely happened that someone has been waiting when I get back, but now you know it could so it hopefully won't be a surprise!



Last blurb of the night (it really is late and my poor coffee pot is broken!)... Our first Ads our out. Check out the classified section in the Military Press and the November Issue of Family Magazine! I also have some free copies of Family Magazine if you want to take one home.



I think I hear my bed yelling at me. Signing off.



Wait! (Sorry bed- be there in a sec).

Still have some Halloween Costumes left and some glow bracelets with purchase. And it is looking like no Halloween Party because I'm not getting a lot of feedback on the actual dates like I did when I asked if it sounded like a good idea. Or, if you and/or your friends are interested, vote! Either way, let's come up with another one. Leave a comment on the blog or call the store if you have an idea for an event!

Military discounts have been extended. Have not had any playgroups or mom's groups book for their discount in awhile so I should post exactly what I offer and some ideas. Also would like to mention more about gift baskets, helping first time moms with making a realistic list of needed items or helping with registries (for a fee, but worth the help if you need it!). I'm not buying a whole lot right now. I am still looking for boys 18M and up and girls size 3 and up. I will take a look at some other smaller items- either things I'm low on, good staples to have on hand or a fabulous "boutique" style item I can't pass up. So come on it and do some shopping! Crib bedding and more slings/baby carriers in as well as a little bit of this and that.



Okay, Okay. I know. I'm really going to bed so I can attempt at least four hours of sleep if all goes well...

Brief Update

This will be short because my girls did something crazy to my computer turning it red- not so good on the eyes. Especially this late at night!

Kids.

So, I got about 11 votes showing interest in the Halloween Party Suggestion I had. I put a new pole up with some actual dates to vote on. If you are interested, please cast your vote. I'd like to get some ideas and people in, but I need to know a date to confirm them. I think it would be fun. Some stories, some pictures, maybe some trick-or-treating around the building. Just my ideas so far. Maybe just a casual event over a course of several hours so more people can atend.

Next, several people have asked me about specific See Kai Run shoes. I'm going to try and contact everyone that asked, but I might forget someone or maybe you are not on the list. If I have enough requests, I'll place an order. And you won't have to pay shipping when you order from me instead of their website. So, if you are interested call the store and I'll get your information.

I still have some Halloween costumes left- and some free glow bracelets to go with them!

Speaking of lists, I sent out my email coupons and had a couple people call for appointments, but no one has brought in their coupon. Don't let it expire.

Military Discount is extended. Our ad came out in the Military Press this week and so I'm extending my discount at least through tomorrow (Saturday) or maybe even a little longer. I want to help out the families of those who are out defending our Country.

Lots of new and interesting items in so if you haven't been in for awhile, come back and see the new clothes and accessories I have in. And some adorable new stuff.

If you need help making a gift basket for a baby shower or creating your registry, I would like to start doing that on some of my down time. More about it another time.

That's it for the evening. No more red-computer-screen :)

Costumes and Tees for Halloween

Just a reminder- Halloween costumes are in. I have a small selection of both boy and girl costumes in newborn sizes to about a 4. I don't have any pictures to post, but I do have some really cute costumes. Like all my other "pickings" I only selected quality, adorable costumes that your little ones would look great in. From a bunny baby bunting, to a babystyle "chick", Batman and Mermadia, I think the selection is pretty good.

I also have some great sibling or friend costumes such as Winnie the Pooh and Tigger or Little Miss Muffet and her spider! In addition, I have some inexpensive Halloween Tees from 3M to a size 5/6.

Come check out what I have and do some fall shopping while you are at it. Like I mentioned earlier, all costumes will come with a free glow bracelet while supplies last. And only a few more days to vote on whether I should put together a halloween party! It only takes a second to click the box and say whether you are interested or not.

So, don't go pay full price for a costume until you come out and see what I have. Especially if your kids don't ever play dress-up, they are only going to wear it once (maybe 2 or 3 times if you do pictures and a party).

New Buying/Selling Policy and More!

I get a lot of questions about what exactly do I buy? How does it work? I printed out my original policy to have on hand at the store. I will also answer any questions by phone or in person. I have also made an important change to the way store credit can be used. Times are tough, budgets need to be adhered to, and all new businesses are run on trial and error. I believe this policy to be fair to both the store and the Customer.

NEW IMPORTANT POLICY: Store credit can only be used on other resale items. I can no longer accept store credit on new Clothing, new See Kai Run or Monchi Shoes, new Diapees and Wipees or new Melissa and Doug toys. If there is a rare item that is new that can be purchased with store credit it will say such on the tag and usually be placed with other resale items. In order to maintain a store with a variety of new and resale items, I have to be able to keep new items in stock by having them purchased so that the money is there when a new order needs to be filled. In the beginning, the store policy allowed any item in the store to be purchased with store credit but we have a budget to work with. The exception was temporarily made, however after careful consideration and long conversations, it was decided that the resale items and new items would naturally have different expectations. In addition, it is fair that if you sell an item to a resale shop for store credit, you expect to purchase quality resale items in return.

- Usually, buying is made by appointment only. If you do not make an appointment, and I have the time I will look at what you have, although you may have to wait. There are no particular buying days, however Thursday-Saturday are usually best. Please call if you need to cancel/reschedule! I will give you the same consideration. Buying times are usually between 10:30 and 2:30, however other accommodations may be possible, just ask. Considerations are based on daily circumstances.

-As this is a new business and I get so many appointments and calls about selling items, we are still only offering store credit at this time. The current store credit offered is 40% of what I will price the item. This is usually about 1/3 of the original value, although it may be more or less depending on several factors. Eventually, once the business has been open longer, you will have the choice between store credit and 25% cash. This is competitive buying prices in the resale business. If the items do not come in freshly laundered and ready to be tagged, I will give 35% Store Credit, make an offer (depending on the item, brand, need, condition), or refuse the item at the time. I have been spending hours and hours each week washing and ironing because I wanted to buy some great stuff that was brought in even though it looked as if it had been wrinkled in a ball! But now that the store is filling up, I need to spend my time on more important things or offer less money to make up for the time, water, electric, etc. If its donated to the store or the donation bin, I don't care if it needs a clean up! Just thankful.

-Store credit does not have to be used right away or all at once, although it can. It does not expire. I am constantly buying items for our resale area so there is always new stuff in stock for you to look through. Our resale area is currently larger than the new items and I plan on it remaining that way or at least maintain an equal balance.

-What stuff do I buy? First, I do not buy large items such as strollers, high chairs, car seats, cribs, etc. If I have them in the store, they are either my own, a friends, or on consignment. So there usually is something or other out of my ordinary items. Therefore, it does not hurt to ask if I have a play mat or a bouncy chair. I love the roomy atmosphere of a boutique, while selling resale items. I despise crowding and unorganized stores/racks. So, for the most part, think smaller items. This may change at some point (I have been advised there is way more money in the larger items), but for now, I look at clothing, some shoes, diaper bags, slings/carriers, crib bedding, blankets, hats, nice accessories, some small toys, games, popular books, etc. I do have some items such as new photo albums, nursing pillows, shower gifts, boppy headrests, shopping cart covers, etc. I have just a small selection at this point to see if they sell. If they do, I will be buying more or bringing in more new items. I also maintain a wish list.

-Items should be freshly laundered, free of stains, and in great condition. Sometimes they are not and if take them anyway the price will be less because I have to take it home and see what I can do with it. If it is something I really want, I will do just that. Items can also be new- with or without original tags or packaging. I can usually tell and it will be priced accordingly. Also, I usually cannot look through more than a couple bins at a time. It can be very time consuming for us both and it is unlikely that I would need that many items at one time. You can always ask when making your appointment. Then you can come back with more items another time. Unlike most stores, I am still taking some newborn (up to 12M) clothing. I am very particular about what I buy, but even more so in the smaller sizes due to the fact that babies sometimes grow so fast that I have so many people coming in with just the smaller sizes. I sell up to size 14, Juniors, Nursing/Transition, and Maternity. And I do actually have some newborn styles- don't be afraid to take a look at the tiny stuff for your new baby. I promise to only have quality items- there are so many things that don't need to be purchased new. Babies need a lot and in this economy, buying resale items will save you a lot of money.

-Donations are also welcome and accepted, both for the store and for our donation bin. If you don't need or want store credit, I thankfully except all donations. Your kindness would be very appreciated. I will even pick up donations locally. Anything I cannot sell will be donated. If you bring items in that I don't buy, you may leave them for the donation bin. Or if I say it is something I would buy but don't currently need, feel free to hold on to it and call back at a later date. For our donation bin, I am working on setting up something with Becky's House and the YWCA. I have a large amount so far, so thank you to everyone who has graciously given their items to be passed on to someone in need. I also take donations for the playroom.

-This is a boutique, and therefore I am looking for name brands, clothing in high-demand, boutique or designer brands. I occasionally will buy a lower brand if it is in excellent condition, has great stitching, great style, very popular or I am very low in that size and it is a great basic addition to any wardrobe. I do my research, although time consuming and usually at home, through the Internet, catalogs, other stores and store owners, and of course talking to other moms. And having three kids of my own, I know what washes well and passes on well. What sort of brands? Think anything you would find in a small boutique or high-end department store. Original catalog brands. Internet stores and boutiques. Also popular stores like Gymboree, Gap, abercrombie, etc. Accessories would be things from Pottery Barn Kids or babystyle for example. Popular New York, San Francisco and Los Angeles brands, as well as most European brands are very good sellers. Shoes should be in like-new condition and well made. As my racks fill up, I do get more particular with the brands and styles. But I will take a look at whatever you bring- some things are irresistible!

-Seasonal items are preferable but due to the climate here, not always necessary. Therefore, I try and keep a little bit of everything on hand. We have all been in the position of one of our kids growing in the winter, but it is warm enough for shorts! Or in the summer here, sometimes you need a sweater at night. Also, you might be traveling to a different climate. I can also help you with layering ideas for items that can be worn year-round when you are purchasing something. And I can point out specific items or even shop for you by bringing you items while you relax or play with your little one. And since some basics do not go out of style (or are coming back in style) I will look at older clothing unlike many stores as long as they have been kept in great condition.

I am also looking into taking orders for baby shower gift baskets. I know a lot of businesses like to give useful gifts to their employees as they leave on maternity, but have no idea what is really useful. I'm looking into what they are buying and paying and then hopefully getting the word out that I can do a better job for a better price. I also would be interested in giving consultations (for a fee) for new moms on what items are really necessary, creating a registry, etc. These would be at least an hour or more and very detailed. I would love to get into doing those to things in addition to the store. I'll keep you updated if it becomes a reality. Of course, if you come into the store and just have basic questions about that kind of stuff, my advice and help would be of no charge! Or if you need to buy for a friend and you don't have children yet, you should ask what they might really want or need and I can show you what I have in stock. And if I don't have what you are looking for, I will refer you to where you can find a particular item.

Maternity and nursing items should also be of good quality. And please, no over the belly stuff anymore! Those of us who have had to wear our waistlines up to our bra-straps cursed the designer. And when the new mid-belly, no waist, and under the belly styles came out, we praised the designers!

I do also have some other frequently asked questions that I should try and post soon. For now, I think I have covered the basics on buying and selling. Hope it helps! I'll be back with some pictures of some of my new clothes. Also, I should be getting the Halloween costumes that I have so far out on a rack by the end of the day tomorrow (Tuesday). I am still buying costumes and holiday wear!

Sale on See Kai Run

Thank you to those of you who braved Miramar Road and came shopping during the Air Show! Hope you enjoyed your discount.

Speaking of discounts, I have put a sale on two of my styles of See Kai Run new shoes- Indria and Jackson. Now at the low price of only $32 due to the fact that they are more on the "summer" side of style. Below retail and no shipping, how can you resist? In our climate, these shoes can pretty much be worn year round. And yes, you can wear white after Labor Day!

Not only are See Kai Run shoes great first walkers (they were my sons and would not try and sell you on something I did not truly believe in!) but they grow fabulously with your child. They hold up great during that crawling-walking stage as well as later on the playground. And they can dress up or down. I would also like to see if there is interest in the larger sizes (9 and up) from their sister company eleven. Of course the prices are higher, but the quality is worth it. I will always work with my wholesalers to get the best deals for all of us.

These are fabulous boutique shoes and I hope my customers agree. If you haven't tried them yet, come on in and feel the buttery leather and flexible sole. And they are approved by the Pediatric Society. See Kai Run only are made in whole sizes, however they are great for all types of little feet. As we moms know, those precious feet come in all forms as they grow!

Help me make space so I can get some new styles in. Here is a closer look at what the the Indria and Jackson sale shoes look like:

Lots more going on, as usual. I have some other pictures to include in a future post. I also am discussing concepts on some possible policy changes on buying/selling that would be in the best interest for the store and the customers.

Our ad in Family Magazine should be coming out in the November issue and one in the Military Press this month! Our first real advertising! They are small but as always, thinking about keeping overhead low so prices remain low. Check the classified columns. I also want to write that post about going green and recycling fantastic clothing! And I'm working on an idea for my next giveaway drawing since the Melissa & Doug one has ended. Isn't it time for a new prize?

Also, I still am looking for votes on the Halloween Party. I need more votes than the 7 so far to put the work into it. And speaking of Halloween, I'll be putting the costumes up this week. I am buying quality costumes for store credit also! And I have free glow bracelets to go with every costume purchased. But quantity is limited; once they are gone I probably won't be getting any more in.

That's all for the moment. Plenty more to post as mentioned so keep reading!

Great Discount Two Days Only!!!

Busy night so I'll make this quick.

Due to the upcoming nearby Air Show on Miramar Base, I will be offering a 10% discount off of any purchase on Friday October 03rd and Saturday October 04th. Offer cannot be combined with other discounts, coupons, or store credit. However, no minimum purchase is required.

If you do not know the backroads to get to the store so you can avoid the traffic on Miramar Road, please call the store and I can give you directions from where you are coming from. The number is always posted on the site. Look to the right towards the logo. Or if you are already heading to the air show and want a quiet break and cool air to relax for a few minutes, I will be open regular hours those two days.

So come by and enjoy a discount on all merchandise!