Second-hand stores are becoming more popular. With a slumping economy, resale is getting a boost.
Those who would never put a second-hand gift under a tree are now cash-strapped customers who are purchasing items in consignment stores and thrift shops for less than half their regular retail price.
Buying second-hand gifts is a great way to keep holiday costs down, but how do you feel about it? Is it acceptable? Is it unacceptable? Is it just plain tacky?
December 22nd, 2009 at 7:11 pm
Yes, I would give a second-hand gift, if it was in decent shape. Books, housewares, some clothing such as a blouse or a belt, tie, purse, or tote bag are usually good candidates. Some decorative items maybe, but only if it honours the person’s taste. I often visit a SA thrift store in my town. I’ve gotten some great items for almost nothing. So it is a good holiday gift resource.
December 23rd, 2009 at 11:05 am
Re-gifting…buying second hand…these are not only acceptable, they make tons of sense. This year a group of us has decided to give only gifts we get at yard sales, thrift stores, re-gifts, etc. and we have had a lot of fun. Not only did we come up with some very unique and lovely gifts, we saved money and the environment. As in anything or anywhere, you can buy “tacky” gifts at second hand places or in the local big box store. It’s about discernment…and sometimes you can afford to give that joke gift when you may not have been able to otherwise. Merry Christmas everyone.
December 23rd, 2009 at 5:04 pm
I use items from your store to make gifts..eg…interesting
containers to put things I make, such as bath salts, inside for gifts.
As a Baha’i I give to my own faiths funds to help those in need around the world.
Salvation Army is the only other organisation I give to…rather than have
garage sales…I enjoy giving quality items to your organisation to
sell.
I believe you do a wonderful service for humanity.
January 4th, 2010 at 8:19 pm
For the first time this year we purchased all the children 27 to be exact second hand items for Christmas!!!! My husband and I put alot of thought in buying second hand because we still wanted to buy excellent condition items and we wrapped it up like it was new!!!! The kids were so excited, the adults (sister-in-laws) not so much……My brother-in-laws really appreciated it and that was what counted and my husband and I felt good about what we did. I believe that our society has become so materialistic that we don’t appreciate that thought that came with the gifts!!!!!
For example: For our one niece we purchased an antique cradle with linens that were not used in perfect condition. Another niece the cutest pencil leg table and chairs set again in perfect condition. Our one nephew a air hockey table and another nephew a little tikes play house!! All these things they wouldn’t be able to afford brand new including ourselves and we knew what they would like. We started early and finished early!!! It worked out very well and we will continue this next year!!!!!
January 5th, 2010 at 4:06 pm
yes i did because i couldnt afford a new thing to buy.
kathy
February 14th, 2010 at 3:57 pm
Pretty interesting thoughts. You mentioned some points that I had not considered before. I’ll check back to follow if you write any updates.