ALGONQUIN, Ill. (CBS) — What started as a successful first garage sale has grown into a thriving thrift store in a northwest suburb.
My Best Friend’s Consignment in Algonquin celebrates its 20th anniversary this month and has been changing lives ever since, one amazing find at a time.
“I bought the necklace here, the blouse, the jeans and the shoes here, and that’s what I’m going to do,” customer Carol Michalak said jokingly.
Shopping at My Best Friend’s Consignment is more than just getting a good deal. It’s a place to save, earn and find community.
Michalak, a long-time customer, has been a regular since the start.
“This is like going to your friend’s house to talk. Everyone knows you,” she said. “I bring in the clothes I don’t want to wear anymore, and I buy new ones, and it’s like I get them for free.”
Owner Marianne Evans has made her dream come true in recent years by expanding her store to 1,200 square meters. There, customers can find not only women’s clothing, but also designer handbags, accessories and home goods.
“I have the best customers, I have the best senders, and customer service is very important to me. It almost brings me to tears… it really does,” she said.
As Marianne’s emotions overcame her, a customer couldn’t help but interrupt her interview and add, “Plus, everyone is so friendly… yeah.”
It is also a family affair. Marianne’s son Zach has been by her side in the store since he was 12 and returned to the store after college.
“The best part about this is that I get to work with my mom every day,” he said. “It makes a world of difference to get to work with my mother, to see you every day.”
He continues: “It’s a lot of fun. It’s constantly changing. It’s like Christmas every day. We never know what we’re going to get in the store. Constant change with a lot of great consignors and great relationships we’ve built over the years – It’s just fun and good for the environment.”
With 10,000 senders, they have everything from Ann Taylor to Louis Vuitton.
Alyson Sterzinger, like many, started as a shopper and is now an employee.
“I learned so much about fashion. We make the customer feel special,” she said. I see Marianne showing so much love and affection. If something happens to them at home, they come here for fun.”
Amanda uploads and takes inventory, many of which are still new with tags. The inventory can be purchased at any time on their website and shipping is available anywhere in the US
“If you see it on the website you better grab it or it won’t be there,” she said.
Amy Pfeiler has worked at the store for 16 years and says she will never stop.
“As soon as we start dressing our age, we start to feel older, so I always encourage women to dress 20 years younger than you,” she said.
“It’s a pleasure to be able to do this. I have the best job. I get to empower women and help them feel beautiful. What could be more beautiful than that?” said Marianne.
That’s what keeps this community coming back.
“You have to come here and experience it. That’s all,’ said Marianne.
