Business Name & Location
Lovely Bump
509 San Mateo Avenue
San Bruno, Ca 94066
Tell us about who you are and what you do.
I own and operate a second hand maternity and kid clothing and gear shop. i've been in business for 7 years this mother's day, 2012. prior to opening this business (initially out of my garage!), i was an elementary school teacher for twelve years, just after college. so nope, i never had any business experience.
Why do you think moms should buy used and consign their kids items that they no longer use?
To save resources: labor and packaging, but mostly money! i've been told the prices at my shop are much lower than many more un-clean and un-organized thrift stores (goodwill, salvation army, etc). the average clothing piece at lovely bump is priced at $1.95 and looks like new--so why pay ten times that at a new store!?
Here are 3 ways that parents can work with businesses like Lovely Bump:
- Trade Your Stuff! - (by appointment only) You get rid of stuff, we give you a gift cert! We make appts. for bags of stuff: maternity and kid (0-14) clothing + essentials.
- Consign your Stuff - Higher priced items can be sold on consignment (you receive a check for 40% of the selling price when the item sells)
- Donate your stuff! - No waiting, no appointments needed. Just drop off your stuff (no more than 2 large garbage bags please) any time we're open, 7 days a week. Remember, drop-offs are for DONATIONS ONLY. If you would like to receive store credit for your items, you must MAKE AN APPOINTMENT. Thank you for your donation; all unused items will be donated to St Vincent de Paul!
Why do you think there is a bad stigma associated with used clothes/goods?
Because of the un-clean or un-sanitized factor, and the fact that some gear items may be broken, or not work. that's why we thoroughly inspect each and every item that comes in for cleanliness and functionality. if it doesn't work, we don't take it. and we challenge you to find a piece of clothing that's not fresh from the washer here!
Do you see an increase of reusing, recycling and renewing with the down economy?
Definitely. my sales have steadily increased since i've opened w word of mouth being my biggest source of marketing. many people come in, thinking it's a boutique from the outside, and then utter "oh...this is used stuff" when they see that each piece is unique. many times, i talk these people into giving it a chance, and they do!
What would you say to people who are non-believers in the concept?
No one has to know it's second hand...in fact i've often been told my kids (7 and 10) are the best dressed children in town...and nearly 100% of their clothing comes from lovely bump!
Is your family supportive of your business?
yes, very. they are proud of me also.
Me: Thank you very much, Beth! I know as a mom, wife and small business owner that you don't have time to do a lot of things. We really appreciate you taking the time to shed some light on consignment and saving money when it comes to kids.
How do you save money on your families clothing, toys and other goods? Share with us why you are a consignment believer or hater?
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