In these times of tighter wallets, careful shoppers are looking to thrift, consignment and resale stores for high-end merchandise at bargain prices. With a helping hand, the National Council of Jewish Women, Greater Detroit Section, opened its third Council ReSale Shop in November 2011.
The new ReDesign HOME Consignment store on Woodward Avenue in Royal Oak features a variety of one-of-a-kind home furnishings such as rugs, chandeliers, end and dining tables, works of art, sofas and chairs from manufacturers including Baker, Henredon, Brueton, Dunbar, McGuire and Poulsen. Collectibles, lamps, mirrors and other home accessories are also available for purchase.
Discounted items for sale in the 2,250-square-foot showroom are either donated or consigned, giving products a second life and providing an opportunity for people to recycle their treasures.
"In business for 78 years, we have a long history of serving the community and decided to do something different with this store. There is a profound need for this type of store as people in this economy want to donate to help during difficult times and want to consign because they, too, will make money. It's a win-win situation," says Susan Gertner, executive director of NCJW/GDS.
Founded in 1891, NCJW is a grassroots organization of volunteers and advocates who turn progressive ideals into action. Inspired by Jewish values, NCJW strives for social justice by improving the quality of life for women, children and families, and by safeguarding individual rights and freedoms.
Fifty percent of sales from the ReDesign HOME Consignment and Council ReSale Shops support more than 25 projects of NCJW/GDS, including Dress for Success, Wrapped in Love, Project Friendship, Kosher Meals on Wheels, All Kids Playground, Share Your Soles, Safe Place, Strategies to Prevent Domestic Abuse, Adventures in Reading and Bookstock.
The Council ReSale Shops in Berkley and Royal Oak offer merchandise such as gently-used men's, designer and vintage women's and children's clothing, toys, accessories, jewelry, handbags and shoes, to name a few.
"At the ReDesign shop, we're looking for and are selling quality home goods that meet current market demand," says Robert Lebow, retail merchandising director. The consignment criteria are available for reference online http://www.ncjwgds.org/councilresale.
"We have design center products without the design center rules and regulations. In terms of variety, we have everything from the traditional English Club Chair fully-upholstered with wooden legs to the very contemporary current product, along with a wide selection of antique and vintage pieces," says Lebow, who has more than 30 years of experience as a high-end, residential interior designer.
The ReDesign shop attracts people from all economic levels. According to Lebow, the shop is perfect for any value-conscious consumer – the one looking to purchase home goods on a budget, or the interior designer looking for that great piece at a reduced price, and even those seeking to liquidate good furniture.
Special sales and events take place year-round, and promotions are available for frequent customers. Lebow reaffirmed that everything is thoroughly researched before it is priced for sale and displayed in an elegant atmosphere. "Our prices are fabulous and so far people have been thrilled."
ReDesign HOME Consignment
32801 Woodward Ave.
Royal Oak, MI 48073
248-439-6040
http://www.ncjwgds.org/councilresale/
Hours: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday
