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Fall consignment sale season is here! Sales, details inside

PITTSBURGH — If you're in search for fall and winter items for your children or grandchildren, then consignment sale shopping may be for you.

Moms, dads, grandparents and caregivers who shop at consignment sales can save anywhere from 50 to 90 percent off name brand items – including designer clothes, shoes and accessories.

Channel 11 spoke to the creator of one of the most popular consignment sales in the region. Lesley Bruns is the owner of Sunflower Sprouts, which begins this weekend.

Bruns said parents can find fantastic deals on winter clothing for their children at her fall sale, at the very best prices.

“Because our items are priced by each individual consigner, that gives us a very large array of prices on all our items,” Bruns said.

Another popular item sold at the fall sale? Halloween costumes.

“We sold over 400 costumes at our fall sale last year,” said Bruns.

WHY SHOP CONSIGNMENT:

Many may wonder what the difference between shopping consignment sales versus shopping at stores like Plato’s Closet or Goodwill is. Bruns said it’s simple: independent pricing and quantity.

“What is unique about seasonal consignment sales verses stores is that our consignors price and tag all their own items.  We don't turn away items simply because we don't have space like many stores do.  We only turn away items that are worn, stained, broken, out of season or have been recalled,” Bruns said.

For example, Bruns may receive five “Cozy Coupe” cars for this year’s sale. But because they are individually priced by consigners, the prices could range from $5 to $40.

“This gives our inventory a vast array of prices and choices because it comes from so many different people.  Some consignors price to sell and others price higher to try and recoup their initial investment.  There is always a diamond in the rough and if shoppers take their time they will find many great deals.  Typically a shopper will save about 80% from buying new.  You can't find such a selection from so many different brands anywhere else but at a children's consignment sale,” said Bruns.

SHOPPING TIPS:

Since consignment sales are becoming hugely popular, it’s important for shoppers to be prepared.

Come with patience. “The lines get long, which is to be expected when a sale of this magnitude is held for only a few days,” said Bruns.
  1. Bring a laundry basket with a rope or necktie strapped to drag while you shop. It can be cumbersome to carry several items in a bag, especially if you're buying many things.
  2. Come prepared with sizes.  You can draw foot sizes on a piece of paper.  Bring a tape measure marked with each child's lengths.
  3. And if you can, leave your children at home.  "While we never turn away children at our sale, it can be a bit overwhelming for some children.  There are so many great things that they 'have to have,' Bruns said.
For more information on Sunflower Sprouts, CLICK HERE. Updates are also posted on their Facebook page.

WPXI.com is working on compiling a list of upcoming sales. SUBMIT INFO HERE.