Let It Grow
By Tammy Thornton
Whether you want to save a few bucks or just like the idea of turning something old into something new, thrift stores offer unique finds for everyone. At one time, thrift store shoppers may have been looking for a bargain out of necessity. However, over the last few years, thrifting has come back into fashion. Shoppers looking for retro or vintage clothing can find fashionable items not available in retail stores. Thrift stores have become especially popular with the Gen Z crowd, as influencers have made thrifting trendy and cool by posting their one-of-a-kind found fashions on social media.
With sustainability in mind, people are more in tune with ways to reuse and recycle. Thrift stores offer DIYers distinctive and sometimes rare items that can be conserved by turning trash to treasure.
My own daughter is an upcycle and thrift store queen. She recently bought a lamp from a secondhand store, took it apart, and painted it. After that, she added her own unique touches, complete with a thrifted lampshade and South Jersey sand and seashells. She now has a high-end-looking lamp that completely matches the cool beachy vibe of her room. She has also deconstructed draperies and sheets to make really fun clothes. If you are old enough, you will understand why I jokingly called her “Carol Burnett,” referring to a hysterical skit when Burnett spoofed Scarlett O’Hara making a gown from curtains when times were tough. But Scarlett definitely had the right idea, at least when it came to being resourceful!
If fashion or taking apart lamps isn’t your thing, you might enjoy finding a steal in the dishes and glassware section. Use a distinguishing eye to spot antique milk glass or collectible Vaseline glass that will glow under ultraviolet light. Upgrade your china cabinet with a crystal sugar bowl or butter dish. I like to buy fancy-looking teacups, which can be filled with candy or little plants and given as gifts. You can also find a countless number of vases in all shapes and sizes. These inexpensive vases make a convenient way for me to give friends a bouquet from my garden without worrying about getting the vase back.
In addition to finding everything from the refined to the downright quirky, thrift stores directly impact our communities. Many of these secondhand stores benefit local organizations like hospitals, churches, and community-based support organizations. The Arc of Atlantic County owns and operates two wonderful thrift stores called “The Arc Makes Cents Thrift Shops”— one in Egg Harbor Township and another in Ventnor City. All proceeds from donations made to these thrift shops directly benefit programs and services for local individuals in our community. According to Scott Hennis, CEO of The Arc of Atlantic County, “Shopping at The Arc Makes Cents Thrift Shops is not just about finding great deals — it’s about supporting the community and giving pre-loved items a second chance. Every purchase helps fund programs that make a real difference in people’s lives, proving that every dollar spent can have a lasting impact.” Hennis added, “From clothing, shoes, and home goods to furniture, electronics, toys and games — both of our stores offer a variety of gently used items. Some items are one of a kind, or vintage apparel.”
If you would like more information about The Arc Makes Cents Thrift Shops, you can go to their website for addresses and hours of the thrift shops at www.thearcatlantic.org/thrift-shops. Happy shopping!
Tammy Thornton lives with her husband, children, and crazy pets while enjoying a life of gardening, cooking, and going to the beach.
