I’m cuddled in my bed (which, for the record, has been dubbed “The Marshmallow” because of its extreme fluffiness and ability to swallow one whole in a cuddly, dreamy hug) and my room is a wreck. This depresses me even more than usual, because I am leaving for a trip on Monday, and that means I should clean it. But, Monday’s cleaning means that I will be that much closer to Saturday, which is the day that I will be dancing to my heart’s content at an English Country Dance Ball Thing.
I wish I could explain it to you in depth, but this post is about being frugal, not What on Earth is an English Country Dance? Why am I telling you all this? Because I get to wear this awesome dress—a dress that I got on sale at Macy’s. It’s delectable.
Would anyone like to dance?
The price had been significantly reduced, it was the last dress of its kind, and it was my exact size. Now, basically that meant that it was obviously God’s will that I have that dress. So, I bagged my find of the day and left a happy girl. But, I’m actually supposed to be talking about garage sales and Goodwills, so I’ll beg pardon for my rambling and get back on topic.
I just know you are sitting there mumbling at the screen,
You: “Yes, Sarah. I know you are right. You are always right (but that’s beside the point). I know I need to be frugal, but I don’t know where to start.”
Sarah: *cracks knuckles and wiggles toes excitedly* “Thanks for asking! You’ve already completed the first step: admit that you need to be frugal.”
Stop talking to yourself, walk to your closet and decide what’s got to go. Nah…stop whining. “But Sarah, I thought we were supposed to like, learn how to conserve and be frugal and stuff.” Yes, but part of being wise with your things is being wise about what is sitting around not being used. There is someone out there who will treasure your castoffs. If you never wear it, it’s only taking up space and wasting energy (that extra muscle power used to dig through those drawers to find your favorite shirt that is buried under the shirts you hate. Exhausting.).
And just so we are clear. Fabulous red pumps and a zebra skirt? This is a need people – a NEED which cannot be confused with a want!
Make a list of “needs” and “wants.” You need to be aware of the distinction between the two, or you’ll end up spending more than you should, even at cheap places like Salvation Army.
Next, go to Craigslist and search for garage sale listings in your area. Consider bringing a friend with you on garage saling trips. Garage sales are awesome, but it’s a good idea to bring a friend, as you are poking around in the garage/house of complete strangers.
Then get on Google Maps and search for:
Salvation Army
Goodwill
Consignment Store
You can use an accessory like this as a belt, tie, or whatever!
If you have a fashionable friend who is your size, consider doing an unwanted-clothes-swap. Remember, her junk could be your treasure, and vice versa!
So – here’s a recap of what you need to do to get started:
1) Go through your closet (and perhaps host a clothing swap with your closest friends)
2) Search Craigslist for upcoming garage sales
3) Go to google maps and find your local consignment, Goodwill and thrift shop locations.
I’m so excited about my next post! I will give you some pointers on how to get the most out of your garage saling experience.
p.s. For your enrichment, I’ve attached two photos: the zebra skirt and the red pumps were purchased at Salvation Army and Goodwill, and the Ralph Lauren belt came from Goodwill! #FrugalForTheWin
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