Store Closing Sales

Various Flea Market / Craft Fair Supplies

There are those moments while thrifting that I really try to suppress some of my emotions. I do this often at Estate Sales. When I arrive at a home of someone who has died you see their entire life around you. You see their clothing still hanging in the closet, you see their collection of perfume they may have had since they were a young bride, or there may even be food still in the pantry. I do try to connect with the previous owner and piece together a little of their life in my mind. I also whisper small words of gratitude as I shop when I find something that is dear to me. I don't shop in an oblivious bubble that these things didn't once belong to someone full of life.

Today I stopped by a toy store in Petaluma that is closing it's doors in the next few weeks. I love to shop a Store Closing sale and yet at the same time, I don't like it. It's so sad to see someones dream and passion end. I realize that sometimes they go on to better things but often, especially in this economy, they close because they can't stay in the black. Each time a physical store closes, we lose something that is part of our local community.

With that said though, Store Closing sales can be a very good source for inventory, fixtures and supplies. The items above: spinning rack, bracelet display, ring display, jewelry holder, and table sign holders came to $20. They will be a part of my upcoming Flea Market booth.

The thing that I try to do when shopping at a family estate run sale and a Store Closing sale is to be respectful and kind. They deserve that much.

How to find a Store Closing Sale?

A great source for finding Store Closing sales is Craigslist. I simply type in Store Closing into the search bar and typically 5-10 listings appear. Sometimes you can get an idea of price in the individual listing. Another suggestion is reading your local paper, especially if the establishment has been in the community for years. The other way is by word of mouth. What's been your best find from a Store Closing sale?

By the way, the store in Petaluma has a lot of Manequin supplies which are great when taking photos of clothes. If you'd like the address, please email me.

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Comments

[DogsMom]

Recently we had the closest Michaels store close. Sad enough itself but they packed up everything they could and shipped it away. No customer consideration from them.
Down the road from that is a Dollar General store closing. I have not checked it out yet but should check for their final date. The closer to the last day I assume the cheaper items will be. When Kmart closed it was a zoo. Very disorganized and many things broken.
When a larger store closes it is also a good opportunity to visit local charity thrifts. Many corporations will use the merchandise donation as a tax write off.

[Rachael]

i am always very respectful of the items, especially at estate sales. i try to think...what if this were my parents home. if it is a non-professionally run estate sale or yard sale, the family is most likely hosting and it is probably difficult to see the items go anyway. i try to say things like...they had a lot of nice things, or you can see they enjoyed traveling. this also goes a long way when you are paying for the items, they are more likely to give you a better price.

[Mary]

I think it's sad that the body is still warm and the family is selling everything off? What's up with that??

[Joy P]

Respect and good manners go a long way when attending estate sales, especially family run. There is always something positive or kind to say. Good post today (also great metal finds for displaying).

[Kristen @ Babe With a Budget]

You know, my dad and his brother had to travel back east to hold an estate sale for my aunt this past spring in Chicago. It was really hard for them to say goodbye to their sister and take care of her things. In their case it had to be done quickly since she had no other family, we all live in UT & CA. Some neighbors came by and just offered some support. One thing led to another and her entire wardrobe was donated to a local church and most of the furniture was given to the neighbors daughter who is a single mom of 4 kids. My dad was so GRATEFUL for kind words about my aunt that he was more than happy to just give things away to people who appreciated them!

[Sue]

I too, try to be as respectful as I can be at an estate sale. It is sad to think about someone passing and at times, there are medical equipment to mark the final, difficult times. What does make me smile and has brightened the mood of the family is when there is a connection between the items that are for sale and my appreciation for their treasures. So often, family has expressed gratitude that someone appreciates these pieces of the loved one's life. I enjoy hearing the history of the pieces that I'm buying and there is a little bond that continues on with my purchases.

[Anonymous]

Thanks for the words about the store closing.
My family and I owned a small chain of 40 stores. All businesses have a life expectancy and ours was approaching its end. We were lucky as the business had been very good to us and we were good stewards. We went out on our own terms, able to give good severances, owe no money BUT MOST aren't able too.

It is truly like a death for these owners. Most will have a huge debt, their homes are in danger and their future unclear. Please be as kind as possible. If their prices are reasonable, don't haggle too much. Their wounds are raw and haven't begun to heal yet so be patient even if they are grouchy. Don't be a bottom feeder.

Been there and it's hard.

[Janet Mullis]

When I was holding our store closing sale, 6 years ago, a customer came over and hugged me and said "it may not seem like it now, but this will probably be the best thing that ever happened to you"- and you know she was right. She had been an excellent supportive ($$$) customer but was able to see through the circumstance to know I really needed change. I sold all fixtures, merchandise, everything, down to the last card and I was able to begin again.
Janet

[Sally]

It is sad to think about someone passing and at times, there are medical equipment to mark the final, difficult times. What does make me smile and has brightened the mood of the family is when there is a connection between the items that are for sale and my appreciation for their treasures. So often, family has expressed gratitude that someone appreciates these pieces of the loved one's life.