Mom and I take very different approaches to garage sales. I think this starts with the very purpose. I want to get rid of stuff (read "junk") and Mom is interested not only in making money, but in helping people by selling them things they want or need at bargain prices. Given that we differ on "why" it is not surprising that we also differ on "how." For example:
- I sweep or spray the garage floor, but Mom mops it
- I wipe off the display tables with a damp cloth, but Mom uses disinfectant
- I use pre-printed pricing stickers, but Mom stencils hand-made pricing signs
- I put out items in "as is" condition, but Mom washes or dusts the items to make them look as nice and new as possible
As it turns out, Mom's jewelry was far and away the biggest attraction at our garage sale. I never cease to be amazed at what people will buy.
Garage sales are an interesting study in people and their personalities. Some people live to haggle over the posted prices. They will buy things they don't need or want just for the opportunity to pay less than what you are asking. Other people shy away from bargaining and always pay the posted price, even though we would be willing to take less.
Mom is also an interesting study. She isn't just a cashier, taking money for what people decide to buy. She is a salesperson, pointing out items that she thinks someone will like or telling an interesting story behind a particular item. Mom connects with the people who come to her garage sales. Why? Because she is helping them.
Part one of our garage sale was last weekend. I left the display tables up in the garage and we will bring up more stuff from the basement to continue with part two over the Labor Day weekend. Wish us luck! Mom will need to sell a lot of items so that she can have enough room in her new office for what remains.
