If you are looking to create a rustic, country-chic bridal shower my first recommendation is to check out your local thrift stores! There are so many gems hiding there. It may take a few trips and some serious hunting, but don’t give up. Turn another woman’s trash into your bridal shower treasure with these tips and tricks.
Shop slowlyyyy
If you quickly browse through the store, chances are you will miss those perfect pieces that are hiding way in the back behind all the junk. I pick one aisle at a time and really look at every item. Pick things up. Open up boxes. You never know what is hiding and if you rush through the store, I can guarantee you will miss a lot of treasured pieces.
Imagine how an item can be recreated
If an item doesn’t look “rustic” enough, imagine how it would look if it was painted a different color or lightly sanded to give a distressed look. The item may not be exactly what you are looking for, but can it be easily modified to fit your style?
Barter your prices or buy in multiples for a discount
Many times, items in a thrift store mistakenly did not get priced. Find another similar item (at a price you would like to pay) and ask an associate if the item you would like is the same price. Also, if you are buying items in multiples, ask if they will give you a discount and sell the group of items at a lower price than the individual price. Most of the time they will be happy to get rid of the items and will work with you on price.
Pick the right shopping partner
I always recommend shopping with someone that is as creative as you and can imagine how thrift store finds can be recreated. If you shop with someone that is close-minded, you may get discouraged and leave empty handed. I also recommend shopping with someone that will keep you grounded and on task. I get SOOO distracted and get a little thrift-store-blind and start imagining that EVERYTHING is cute and will work with my vision. Shop with someone that will draw you back in and be honest when an item isn’t really that cute :p
Don’t give up
Sometimes thrift stores are total scores and sometimes they are duds. If you walk out empty handed, don’t fret! Go back in another week or two when new items have been added to the shelves. They are constantly moving things in and out of the store so the options are ever changing.
