Facebook

I am trying so hard to use Facebook & Twitter to market my business, but it is so fun to reconnect with old friends that I just get distracted and have fun! Oh well!

My husband has extra time on his hands so I've asked him to help me at the store. It's actually a big help to me, but it cracks me up, listening to him chat with the moms and pregnant women. Lets see how it goes; working together, rather him working for me. I hope all the cash makes it to the drawer!

Happy Earth Day!

My contribution to honor earth day this year, is to bring all the wire hangers that seem to accumulate in my life, back to the dry cleaners!

Private Parties

Last week The Second Child partnered up with Jen Khatchatrian, founder of Chicago Green Families, for a fun evening of "Shop & Drop". Invitees were encouraged to drop by the store to shop and/or drop off consignments. The store stayed open a couple hours later than usual and served organic wine and snacks. Representatives from Melaleuca, a "green" health and wellness company, were on hand to educate guests about their products, and offer suggestions to living a "greener" lifestyle, while saving money. All in all it was an enjoyable and informative evening. If any other groups are interested in having a similar event, I would be way in.

Crossroads

Summer seems to come to an end so abruptly. Schools are starting everywhere, and for the first time in many years, I don't have a student. My younger daughter (hence The Second Child) graduated college this past spring. I have two college educated, working, beautiful adult daughters. At such a milestone in my life, of course I examine my business objectives. Am I done, should I do something different? Should I expand, open more stores? Should I reevaluate, focus on the Internet? My conclusion is no! If it's not broken, don't fix it. With so much talk of the economy, The Second Child seems to be recession proof. With so much talk of the environment, The Second Child has always been green. Business continues to grow and new consignors continue to discover. Almost daily, someone thanks me for my business and so I continue to be motivated. I look forward to a fulfilling and prosperous season!

Thanks,
Amy

Old Persian Rugs?

So, how does a store like The Second Child end up selling Old Persian Rugs? Well, I was away visiting family in S.C. and stumbled upon a wonderful antique store with great rugs and great prices. I made a few purchases for home and went on my merry way. During the night and the next day, these rugs just kept tugging at me & calling my name. So, back I went, spoke to the owner and told her I thought I could sell these for her in Chicago. She gave me 10 rugs to bring back and share with my favorite customers. They are really great looking and reasonably priced. If they go, I'll get more. So come on by and check out my latest find!

Although the weather has not cooperated, the Spring Season is off to a great start! Easter has come and gone, spring breaks are over and I am craving some good weather. My daughter Molly, a senior at U of I Champaign/Urbana, participated in an alternative spring break program organized through Hillel. Eleven students went to Uruguay to help build houses in a very poor area, that is often victim to flooding. Each student toted with them an additional suitcase filled to capacity, with clothing The Second Child was unable to sell. The items were graciously received by the Hillel group in Uruguay, and then distributed directly to the needy families. What a great, inspiring opportunity for all! Check back for pictures on our web site soon!