Perfectly Pre-Owned

As Christmas Day nears on the 1st of November, many people have already started their shopping hoping to unearth deals like precious stones and internally shriek 'EUREKA!' while skirting around long lines. So, where are you shopping for decor and gifts? May I suggest you consider gently used items from stores that will actually benefit from your dollar rather than supporting other countries with questionable morals and laws for labor? Now, I happen to work at Our Thrift Store of Franklin, TN so I admit that I am partial to this idea-but with very good reason. Every item purchased from the store goes to employing adults with special needs in the community. This is one reason to purchase kindly donated, pre-owned items: good cause with tangible impact. Another reason (as if that's not a trump) is that you will save more money than you ever would with a coupon on top of a sale at a leading retailer. This is especially perfect for children as many battery operated toys that make an oh so joyful noise, appear to have never been played with! What may cost you 39.99 new at the mall may be 2.99 pre-owned. I know my toddlers do not care if their gift is in the original box or not! But, not only can you buy gently used items at a thrift store, I frequently find 'new with tags' items that are slashed for a fraction of the price. Lastly, if you are the creative type, thrift stores are perfect for buying items to re-purpose. Check the racks for dollar satin formals turned love adorned stockings. Or what about the unattractive, discounted canvas painting that you could repaint solid, beginning a new piece of art for a friend? Do you fill glass vases with colorfully gleaming ornaments? Why not purchase them pre-owned? Throw arrogance out the window, save some money and help a smiling face in your community all in one swoop: buy pre-owned this Christmas season!