Has anyone been to one of those giant consignment

[speckledfrog]

sales for kids stuff? Like the kind they have once a twice a year?

There's one coming up and I'm thinking about going and getting some toys. How crazy are they? Any tips?

[eb777888]

Are you talking about Divine Consign? I went a few years ago and found some things. It really came in handy when S was little. I got his snap n go there for $8, some decor for his room, oversized lego blocks, books and clothes. I don't remember seeing much there for my now 3 year old.

[CheshireGrin]

I have nothing to say except OMG WHAT AN ADORABLE LITTLE BABY. Oh so squishable!

[stephiehun]

I've been to two. The first time, I got there at about the middle of it, and had a great experience. I got a ton of clothes, and had a great time. the second time, I got there when it opened, and it was fucking insane. I got a TON of dirty looks for having DD with me in the stroller. I didn't get nearly as much as I would have liked because it was so crowded.

My BFF and her DH made out like bandits, though. They got 2 strollers, a toy box, and a bunch of books. By the time we left, most of the toys and baby gear had been sold.

I'd totally go again, though. I hate spending full price on baby clothes, and I've walked out with a bag full of clothes for under $20. If it's crowded, hit the big stuff first, put any purchases in the car, and then go back for clothes.

[speckledfrog]

eb, I am talking about Divine Consign. I hadn't heard about it until today when people were talking about it on FB. I have never been before and was able to register for the pre-sale.

[speckledfrog]

Also, thanks Chesh. ;D

[pierogigirl]

I'm going to one at the end of the month. I'm excited.

[Deleted]

I've been to one called Just Between Friends- actually, I just consigned some stuff at it. The one I went to was fairly small, so the crowds were really light. We went on the last day because almost everything was 1/2 off- for little baby stuff, there were still tons of things left so we got some great deals.

If it's close to you, maybe go the first day and get stuff you just really need, then go back the last day and see if there's good stuff left.

But don't consign- I worked my butt off preparing the clothes and only made about $45

[drrn04]

Bargain hungry mommies competing over used baby items sounds like a special circle of hell, IMO. I don't mind a good sale, or even 2nd hand stuff, but not in that kind of setting.

[pantsparty]

I have no tips but your LO is adorable!

[eb777888]

I got there early and was one of the first in line. Now that I'm remembering, I also got our exersaucer for like $10, jumpersaucer for $10, bumbo for really cheap. I think the key is to get there early and have an empty stroller to put stuff in. I also had H there for an extra set of hands. It wasn't too bad as far as the fighting moms, but the kids clothes was a pretty mad area.

[gretchenindisguise]

I've done the Just Between Friends sale a few times. Didn't have any issues and always got some great stuff.

I sold some right before I moved. I didn't have time to do the tagging and what not, I just dropped it off and did "valet tagging" wherein they took a bigger cut and then donated everything that didn't sell. Worked beautifully for me.

[maggiemoo]

I loved going. The bigger ones have lines around the building. People bring laundry baskets etc so they can grab more stuff. It can be insane. I found a lot of big ticket items in good condition for half of what I would have spent normally. Some of the boy's favorite things came from those sales. Lots of clothes too. If you want the big stuff get there early. If you're unsure about something hold on to it. Try not to get stepped on, lol. It's worth the hassle. Especially when the kids are babies. They change so fast. Even if you don't go the first day, you can still find some gems. I think a lot of people get a little crazy and in a hurry. They overlook the good stuff.

I'm currently purging toys for the one coming up here. Clothes for goodwill too. Nothing like decluttering to turn your house into a wreck.

[dochas]

There is a huge one by me and they have restock days. So if you can't make the first day, you can still get in on fresh stuff by going after restock. Ours also has a half price day the last day. Consignors mark their items if they want them to go half price at the end and you can get incredible deals.

[hisno1girl]

I've gone to those Mom2Mom sales and I'm with Dot&Buzz, it's a special circle of hell that's simply not worth it.

I got great deals but I saw enough sweat pants and crocs to last me a life time.

[Deleted]

I'm going to our Moms of Multiples sale in September -- first time. We're hoping to sell things like their swings, sng w car seats, etc., at the spring sale.

I've heard it's INTENSE. If possible try to volunteer or something so you can get one of the first picks. I don't know if I'd go if I didn't get in early for being a member.

[blackkitty]

I went to my first one in April
My sister goes all the time (she has 3 kids) so she gave me tips
Go as early as possible. We got to go the day before it opened they had a pre-sale if you were a fan on facebook.

Look for stuff of high quality/ good brand names. It's easy to get overwhelmed b/c there is so much stuff. Be really picky.

I got my son's whole summer wardrobe for about $50. I usually will spend like $250-300 a season. It was well worth it!