Finally Spring is in the air

Okay, I am not foolish enough to believe that we will not get any more snow, but I do feel that spring is in the air. And with that comes COMMUNITY SALES!  Yeah.  This is the time of year that I go through all the kids clothing and cull those that are too small. You may hear the children calling "But Mum it's my favourite, couldn't I wear it just one more time?"  So the clothing fairy comes and takes the clothing away when the kids are not around and somehow it all gets tagged an ready for the spring and fall community sales. That clothing fairy needs a latte!


So this year there are over 12 sales in Calgary and the surrounding region. This means that there is lots to choose from and surely there is one that is close to you. 


I've posted all of the community sales on my website so that you don't have to spend hours and hours trying to figure out when and where they are only to have potentially missed some great savings. Don't mention it ;-)  Check it out at www.babyguidetocalgary.com and click on "Community Sales"


A lot of people ask me which community sales are the best.  I find that they are all of good quality an usually the organizers are great and ensuring that the quality of the items for sale are of suitable quality. 


There are two community sales that stand out in terms of the organization.  These two are centrally coordinated and organized so that you can go to one area for clothing and it is sorted by age etc.  These are the TTMAC April 24 and the Wildwood Little Tykes sale on May 1. Check them out as they are definitely worth the trip. 

Fundamentally I have a hard time paying full retail price for any piece of clothing for kids.  Also, I have think we could all use the savings that come with community sales, whether you are buying or selling.  I shop each year at the community sales and probably save about $800 per year. I figure that this helps me head to Mexico for a weeklong vacation when it is -35C outside!  The clothing savings certainly makes the trip more justifiable! So what are you going to do with your savings this year?

Here are a few tips to help you get the most of the community sales:

1) Find out when the sales are on. Check out www.babyguidetocalgary.com and click on Community Sales.

2) Know your sizes. Come with your kids shoe sizes as well as clothing sizes.

3) Inventory the kids clothes at home. Come knowing what you are looking for.

4) Prepare your list and bring your cash. Most places only take cash.

5) Bring a large cardboard box or laundry basket for your stash of clothes.

6) Leave the kids at home. You will all be happier for it.

7) Get there early (about an hour before opening), dress warmly for the line up, bring a coffee.

8) Enjoy yourself. You will likely meet some neighbors while you shop.

IF YOU KNOW OF ANY COMMUNITY SALE THAT I DO NOT HAVE LISTED, PLEASE SEND THEM TO info@babyguidetocalgary.com

Blog soon, 

Paula