Just follow those signs!
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With so many garage and yard sales popping up, you are probably already out there shopping and looking for great deals, especially when the weather cooperates!
I've put together some thoughts and tips on garage sales in general, whether you're attending or hosting one. These are some things to think about and keep in mind. The event doesn't have to be complicated, but there are some things you can do to make it even more enjoyable...😜 Read on...
1) Always say hello and smile, but don't hover:
Don't ignore your customers as a host. People are more likely to buy something if they feel you have acknowledged them and then they might be more inclined to ask a question if they need help. Don't hover and explain every item that they pick up. The overly anxious hosts tend to make the garage sale less fun. The customer is just looking and thinking about how the item can fit into their world and they probably don't want to be distracted by a long history of the item and how it was acquired.
2) Always say thank you no matter how little the purchase:
Don't harass or shame your customers by implying they didn't buy or shop enough. Whatever they buy is worthwhile and is better than nothing. Most people are just there to pick up a small token or even to look, sometimes. Also, consider cleaning the items as much as possible. Some items might be more valuable as is because of age, however, most items can be lightly cleaned. No one wants to walk away with black prints and what not on their hands. This helps in the long run and will sell the product better.
Bonus Tip: People will remember what you bought from them (I know I do). When they look at or wear the item you sold them, they will remember how you made them feel (either bad by not buying enough or they will remember how you lit up and gratefully thanked them and said to enjoy the item, with a smile).
3) Let people enjoy the experience:
It helps to stay back and let people mill around and look; be there if they have questions. Have something good smelling in the background if possible (incense, firepit, or smokey anything) depending on the time of year. The garage sales with the lemonade stands and children running around are not high on the list. These types tend to have too many distractions and it just takes away from the whole somewhat "meditative" experience, replacing it with a hectic one. To boot, they probably are selling a lot of children's toys and children's clothes and that may not work for some who are looking for more variety.
However, on the flip side, you can get children actively and creatively involved in the process if they are mature and behaved; they can assist with moving and packing things up or even making simple prices for labels, decorating, or finding help for customers who have a question or need change. That's a win-win! 👍👍
4) Always have large and clear garage sales signs that are visible from the roads. The ones that are too tiny are not helpful while driving and trying to read at the same time (not to mention dangerous). Always put a start time and end time and if it's rain or shine. If there's a tricky parking situation involved, mention it in the advertisement. Customers will appreciate that. It's so disappointing to show up at a sale and not be able to access it because there is no sidewalk and no legal place to park. Are you supposed to walk three miles with heavy furniture and goods? 😱
I think that these tips will truly help. I just thought of a final tip to leave both seller and customer. Always have small change and always have large change! What does this mean? Well for the customer, they would like for you to have change if they happen to only have a $50.00 bill in their pocket. While it may seem nonsensical to show up at a garage sale with a $50.00 bill, you never know, that person might have been randomly driving by and saw your sign and decided to stop by and give it a go.
On the other hand, the seller would most likely want the customer to have small change and not have to make change for large bills. This makes sense. If you can give exact change that is all the better. Having singles to a bunch of quarters works in most cases, other items may be around 5 to 10 dollars.
A final thought...if you are advertising that you're selling (for example, jewelry) at your sale and it is stated in the ad, please have jewelry at the sale when people come or update your ad for accuracy!
I hope you took away something valuable from this post. Happy garage sale hunting out there and be safe and kind. Enjoy the treasures and shop until the last possible garage sale is held (until Old Man Winter keeps them away!) 🌞🍅🍓🌻
Interested in more tips/advice? They are always FREE!
Contact: sales@coffeeandtchotchkes.com
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