The Roanoke Valley’s newest consignment store, Consigning Women, has opened at 2214 Electric Road [adjacent to Getty Mart near Oak Grove Plaza].
Owned and operated by Melissa and Aaron Halsdorf, the name of the store is a play on words of a popular television series in the 1980’s and early 1990’s, “Designing Women.” With the setting in Atlanta, the series featured five interior designers who worked together and focused on their interpersonal relationships and visits from friends, family and customers.
The Halsdorfs have a long history of retail experience and each has a niche – hers in sales and his in operations. Having moved to Roanoke from Winston-Salem, “we wanted to open a consignment store that would appeal to a broader range of consignors and customers,” said Melissa Halsdorf.
“We often shopped in consignment stores in Winston-Salem prior to relocating here. We take lower end stuff that many consignment shops here don’t take such as tee shirts,” added Aaron Halsdorf.
Consigning Women sells clothing for men, women and children, nursery items, games, toys, accessories, designer purses and housewares. They currently have several Longaberger baskets for sale.
Unlike many other consignment stores, an appointment is not required for consignors to bring in items for consignment. The consignor’s commission is 50 percent less 50 cents of items sold. There is no initial or annual fee for consigning merchandise at the store.
Another unique aspect of the store is the owners’ desire to work with organizations, clubs and events that need to raise money. The Southwest VA Ballet has teamed up with the store for a fundraiser. Consigning Women is also working with other organizations on fundraising projects including Blue Ridge Autism, Alzheimer’s Association, Habitat for Humanity and Roanoke Valley Christian Schools. Those consignors who want to donate items and want part or all of the proceeds to go to a particular organization normally take what they want to consign and donate to the organization, but if preferred can bring the items to the store. For fundraisers, the organization is not charged 50 cents per item sold.
The couple’s goal is for the store to be bright and fun as demonstrated by the store’s cheerful yellow and warm green walls. “If things go well enough, we plan to knock down the wall and expand,” remarked Aaron Halsdorf.
Consigning Women is open Monday-Friday 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. and Saturday 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
For additional information, call (540) 400-7975.
By Susan Ayers [email protected]