Auntie Kate The Resale Expert

What 2 things is this woman remembered for…and what’s her name? Hint: She grew up motherless. (Which explains the hair do.)

Now we all know that mothers everywhere would be proud to see our savvy shoppers and sellers

ReSell…RePlace…ReJoice!

After all, it was Mom who taught us to be savvy with our spending, to recognize quality, and that to waste barely-used possessions was a cryin’ shame.

So it seems only fitting that your consignment, resale, or thrift shop should make a point of honoring Moms everywhere with, let’s say…a contest? Mom always wanted you to be a winner.

Could be a match-up: Famous women and their quotes about motherhood. My favorite: Who said

The best way to keep children home is to make the home atmosphere pleasant — and let the air out of the tires.*

Or interesting facts/trivia about moms and motherhood. For example: What famous personality became known for something his mom made for him?

Many of the sweaters worn by Mr. Rogers on the popular television show, Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood, were actually knitted by his real mother.

Or fill in the blanks:

Marie Curie was known as the Mother of ___________**

Queen Elizabeth’s mother’s,  affectionately referred to as the Queen Mum, name was actually _____***

Prize? Something for the participant ( I recommend a gift certificate to your shop of course), but also a floral arrangement sent by your shop to the winner’s mother. Or, if preferred…the winner can designate a local retirement home, church, homeless shelter to receive the bouquet.

And this from your Auntie Kate, standing in for your Mom:

Don’t forget: Contests are to engage and amuse but also to help you build a connection with your participants. Send every person who enters the contest a surprise (that is, don’t announce it beforehand) email coupon. $5 store money or a chit to redeem for a free whatever…

And because Auntie Kate’s a nag, she’ll also remind you:

Have your camera at hand when your winner chooses her gift-certificate purchase. Perfect for your blog, web site, Facebook page, heck, even your bulletin board there in your entry…