Just Between Friends: Local Kids Swap & Shops

We love hearing about ideas that were created out of necessity, especially when the need was to spend less and reuse more! 2 women from Oklahoma took their regular "Just Between Friends," living room swaps and turned it into a full fledged business that has spread like wildfire across the country. Details are this way...

Just Between Friends was started by Shannon Wilburn and Daven Tackett. The process is simple, allowing any parent to become a consignor (or you shop without selling) with less hassle than your typical garage sale. At Just Between Friends sales you'll find everything from small to tall as they cater to toddlers and teens alike, as well as maternity gear.

The idea was to put all the things you'd find at malls, department stores, garage sales and other hit or miss consignment stores, under one roof. Not only does the idea of swapping out your baby gear, clothes and toys make sense, it also clears up space in your home that could be used for other things, or just to exist as extra space! Sales are held twice a year in most places and are found throughout the Midwest and West coast, with a few states participating out East.

Here's some links to get you started with Just Between Friends:
• Just Between Friends Website
• Find A Sale Near You

(Images: Just Between Friends)

Comments (7)

Kids consignment sales are a HUGE deal here in the St. Louis area. They're simply awesome. You can find some great deals on gently used (and sometimes new!) items. There are usually 3 or 4 of them in the spring and fall. And that's just within 10 minutes of my house! For a drive, there are plenty more! I can't say enough good things about these sales.

posted by Zenbot on September 23rd 2009 at 3:09pm
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I'm from Tulsa and have had the opportunity to frequent the Just Between Friend sale on several occasions. The bargains are amazing and you also get the opportunity to consign your own items. If you have a chance to go to a 'JBF' sale, don't pass it up.

posted by beccatown on September 23rd 2009 at 3:29pm
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I have been to a JBF sale and it was amazing. The sale is huge! It took up a whole convention floor. There are many good deals to be had. I only wish there was one closer to me.

posted by Mrs Olkid on September 23rd 2009 at 3:49pm
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In Madison, WI we have Half-Pint Resale, which was also started by two moms. It's twice a year and I get my daughter's entire season's of outfits, toys, etc. at each sale. Check out http://halfpintresale.googlepages.com/.

posted by InMadison on September 23rd 2009 at 4:35pm
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In Ithaca, NY, Mama Goose is the best!
http://www.mamagooseithaca.com/

posted by sherhall on September 23rd 2009 at 8:16pm
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JBF is incredible. I was amazed at how well-organized it was. I was fully expecting mass chaos, but was pleasantly surprised to see how professional and pulled-together it was.

posted by MalibuRachel on September 24th 2009 at 9:10am
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I have my contributor's pass for the Kids Market in Huntsville, AL this Saturday. Got my 'wanted' list, sizes, a plan of action, and I expect it will be as overwhelming and fun as the IKEA marketplace -- except for the two-stage checkout that moves slow because some people buy 6-foot racks of clothes at a time (and there are no X-items-or-less lines).

posted by Splomo on September 24th 2009 at 3:50pm
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