by Mary Spearman
Looking for Unique Places for Unique Finds
I bet I know where every thrift store or charity shop is between Upstate SC and Asheville, NC. At first I started buying at thrift or second hand shops out of necessity. Being a newly married with little extra money and needed furniture. I found that the new stuff was way to expensive and so I would buy used items and refinish or fluff them up. Some of those early pieces are still in my collection.
Fall is the Best Time to Thrift
For many years, I headed up and over the mountains in the fall just to enjoy the changing leaves. But this year, I was able to combine our drive over Sassafras Mountain with finding two really nice pieces of outdoor furniture, all while helping a Hospice charity. Agape Hospice operates a really nice resale shop in Brevard North Carolina. So, after we enjoyed our view from the lookout platform at the top of South Carolina’s highest mountain. We ventured down into the village of Brevard, one of my favorite places. For today’s trip, I was craving some fried rice and crab casserole found at Twin Dragons. They have one of the best buffets and a favorite of our family for a long time.
The Find
When I walked up to the chair, setting on the sidewalk, I could tell it was well loved but not used up. Although the cushions were faded they were in good shape. Knowing that they can also be painted with fabric paint or new ones purchased, I decided to sit and give the chair a try. Then I noticed, that the brand was on the wicker with a bronze tag. A quick google search showed that retail on the chair was $600 or more, and the price at the thrift store was just $135. The table sitting next to it was a wicker with glass top, and those can also go for a lot, even used. I decided to buy the pair, for a special place to work on my screened porch. I had been looking for a chair for an empty corner for reading or writing. This fit that need perfectly.
Buy Without Guilt
There are a couple of other thrift stores we always try to visit. Safe’s Attic and the Shop of St. Phillips. Both of them are long time favorites. Over the years, I have found bargains on everything from books to artwork. At one time, I had purchased so much stuff, that I opened a small business selling things that I had collected, but had to close it when life became too hectic. Now, I mostly look, unless it is something I need or can use. Then, I buy without guilt. To me that is the best thing about thrifting. You are giving a good item a good home, for a while all while helping a good cause.
Sharing is Caring
What is your favorite thrift or your best buy recently? Please share in the comments.
