Wee Trade's Fall/Winter Sale is August 4-6, 2023 at the WNC Ag Center.
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You can expect to find anything and everything relating to infants/children ranging from clothes, shoes, toys, furniture, books, toys, maternity clothing, strollers, car seats, etc. I've been shopping the sale for 8 years now, and these are my tips for snagging all the deals!
Tip 1: Shop early and late
The earlier you shop means the best inventory as there is simply more stuff. The sale opens to the public Friday, August 4th; however, if you're able to snag a pre-sale ticket, it is absolutely worth it. Read about the various opportunities to register for a pre-sale pass including being a first time mom/grandparent, teacher, foster family, first responder, and more by clicking here. Additionally, if you consign (it's not too late) your items and/or volunteer at the sale, you can shop early!! Check out our tips on consigning article here.
Be sure to come back again for round 2 on Saturday, August 5th for "Family Fun Day" with bounce houses for the kids and then starting at 5 PM many items will be discounted an additional 50%. Finally, come back August 6th for round 3 as any item marked "discount" will be 75% off. Although there won't be nearly as much to pick from, it's a day to score some great bargains.
Tip 2: Leave the kids at home
I personally find shopping without your kids to be much easier. You are not in as much of a rush and can take your time. My husband knows to request the day off work so he can watch the kids and I can shop.
That being said, August 5th (Saturday) is going to be Wee Trade's "Family Fun Day!" This is a super fun day for the kids as there'll be a bounce house, face painting, you name it! Maybe one parent/grandparent can hang with the kids while the other one shops.
Tip 3: Bring something to carry all the stuff
Come prepared. Bring a wagon, a rolling cart, a laundry basket, a large tote bag, you name it!
Tip 4: Make a game plan
If this is your first time ever shopping the sale, I won't sugar coat it: prepare to be overwhelmed but in a very good way. There is so much stuff that when you walk through the doors your brain immediately goes, "Oh my gosh, where do I even start?" Prioritize what is most important. What are you really hoping to find? Head to that section first. Typically big items (in the back) go fast, so you might want to start there.
Tip 5: Bring a shopping buddy
Shopping is just more fun with a friend, right? You can get their opinion on your finds, take turns standing in the check out line while you do a final run through, keep an eye on their stuff while they're taking a bathroom break, etc.
Tip 6: Compare prices
Since each seller sets their own prices, you can expect to find duplicate items at varying prices. I find it to be a fun game. Oh look, here's 3 of the exact same bathtubs at 3 different prices! Naturally, I'm going with the cheapest priced one.
Prior to the sale, I take screenshots on my phone of specific items I might be on the hunt for because 1) service can be spotty inside the building and 2) it helps me remember my list. Then when/if I find the item, I know the retail price and can determine if it's a great deal or not.
Tip 7: Shop different sizes
Once your child reaches a certain age, you sort of get a feel for how quickly they'll be in the next size. If my daughter is wearing say a size 8 shoe, I'll browse her size along with the next size or two up to buy and store. Sometimes things might be misplaced as well, so you might find a size 8 shoe in with the size 7s or 9s.
Tip 8: Decide later
If something catches your eye, add it to your wagon or bag. You don't want to regret passing up on it because chances are it won't be there if you go back for it. When you're finally done shopping, go through your items and decide yes or no for each one. Just like you would return a shopping cart at the store because it's the right thing to do, put your items that you don't want back where they belong so that the seller can hopefully still make a sale.
Good luck, and happy shopping!
