Le Garage Sale: 6 Tips from the Producer

January 16, 2014 Dancers Shape

It’s a New Year and time for a new you. The highly popular semi-annual two-day shopping event, Le Garage Sale returns to Austin January 23-25, offering access to a whole new wardrobe without breaking the bank.

New this year, Le Garage sale will host a brand new VIP pre-shop event on Thursday evening, giving eager buyers a chance purchase the goods before the weekend crowds. With deep discounts from some of your favorite local retailers carrying everything from women’s and men’s apparel & accessories to children’s wear and home goods, the selection can be overwhelming for first-timers. Not to worry, Le Garage Sale producer Suellen Young has quite a bit of experience navigating the popular semi-annual sale.

Here are some of her top tips for a successful shopping trip:

BONUS: We’re giving away a special VIP offer on Friday, January 17, 2014 as one of our weekly gifts during the New Year’s Challenge. Keep an eye out on Facebook.

1. Timing is everything.

If you thrive on high energy and the thrill of a crowd, get there early and if you would rather sip & shop, then come later in the afternoon. Many vendors further reduce their prices and restock as the sale goes on so be sure to come back on Saturday. That handbag you had your eye on may be reduced much more by the end of the sale!

2. Wear a tank, leggings, or something form fitting.

Wear a tank, leggings, or something form fitting. Some vendors do not have dressing rooms, so this makes it much easier to try on clothing without having to completely strip down.

3. Check out every booth;

some of the best booths may be stores that are new to you as well as undiscovered online boutiques and independent designers. Even if you don’t recognize a store’s name, you’ll likely recognize the labels they carry.

4. If you spot an amazing deal, but it doesn’t quite fit perfectly, remember there are great tailors

around Austin who can make the adjustments you need while still saving you money. Plus, Ace Tailors will be onsite taking measurements for alterations that can be picked up at their 12th St location.

5. Bring cash:

You will need it for parking and admission ($10), but bringing a little extra cash will be beneficial as ATM machines are available at Palmer but will charge a withdrawal fee. Also, some vendors (not all) may only accept cash.

6. Follow Le Garage Sale

on Facebook and Instagram for sneak peeks at what will be on sale, info about new vendors, giveaways, after shopping dinner/cocktail gift card giveaways and more! Also sign up for the Le Garage Sale email list -www.legaragesale.net - to get reminders about next season.

And remember the number one rule…In the words of Robert Fulghum (All I Really Need to Know I Learned in Kindergarten): “Play fair. Don’t hit people. Put things back where you found them. Clean up your own mess. Don’t take things that aren’t yours.”

VIP pre-shop tickets are $15 ($10 with a student ID) and general admission tickets are $10 per day, cash only, available at the door. For more information on the event or participating retailers, visit http://www.legaragesale.net/ and visit the Facebook page for updates.

Le Garage Sale Hours: VIP Pre-Shop, Thursday, January 23: 5:30 – 8:30 pm

Friday, January 24: 11:00 am – 7:00 pm

Saturday, January 25: 11:00 am – 6:00 pm