Thirty years looks exceptionally good on Etc. Consignment Shoppe in Winston-Salem, NC, where Owner Debbie Shough has built a “small happy village” – also known as longtime employees and loyal customers!
Debbie admits her current success has come from being in the trenches every day.
“I’ve grown in knowledge as the store has grown, and I give all the glory to God,” she shares. “HE has certainly blessed us beyond measure, allowing us to give back to the community, as well as employing our friends and neighbors, within a faith-based business model.”
What sets Etc. Consignment apart?
“We have something for everyone in the family – and many people say they wouldn’t have known we were consignment. A lot of our items are new with tags. Our friendly staff also makes a huge difference – and customers feel at home,” Debbie says.
Two of her 35 employees are originals from 1995 – one of them, Cherryl Penn, retired in December, but Tia Byrd is still with her!
“Many employees have been with us 10 to 20 years, and they truly care for one another,” Debbie shares. “Each employee has unique talents that make them better in some areas of the store than others – and enable them to establish customer relationships based on their life experiences. God has put each person here, and you can see that play out in how we relate to customers.”
“This is the best job I’ve ever had, and at age 67, I feel that’s a strong statement!” says Etc. veteran Michelle Reed. “Debbie sets high standards for customer service: ‘Always be kind! You never know what’s going on in someone else’s life. Shopping at Etc. could be the bright spot in their day.’ I celebrate 24 years this month and plan on being here for many more!”
Lori Scott also uniquely defines the Etc. philosophy: “In our world of ‘high tech’ – our approach here is ‘high touch.’ Our customers are extensions of our family, and we take time to listen. I truly believe it sets us apart!”
The entire team would agree Debbie is the heart and soul of the store.
“I’ve been lucky to work for this business with a genuine philosophy of gratitude towards both consignors and customers. I feel honored to work for Debbie and to represent her spirit in all I do. It’s an inspiration to work where you absolutely believe in what you’re doing!” adds team member Lara Cox.
In 2014, Debbie’s husband, Steve, closed his own business and joined her consignment venture. “Luckily for me, he was perfectly fine with me being the boss! Having him handle the finances has opened up my schedule to be out on the sales floor and concentrating on our website,” she adds. “About 95% of non-clothing items are now on our website – it’s been so fun to watch it grow.”
While clothing is certainly the store’s largest category, home décor, jewelry and handbags are catching up! Debbie sends out a “Sunday Night Shopping” email every week that also generates sales.
“We ship all over the U.S. and, as of today, have shipped to all 50 states, as well as internationally,” Debbie shares.
Debbie’s plate has always been full – as an entrepreneur, mother and grandmother – and their oldest son, Josh, now 35, grew up watching his mom run a small business. Married to his wife, Morgan, with two daughters, Isabella and Isla, Josh was in kindergarten when the store opened. Debbie and Steve also adopted two children from Uganda in 2011 – Edith, now 18, and Derrick, now 16, changing their lives in wonderful ways!
”We have 30,000 consignors, and through several expansions, many have been here from the beginning,” Debbie shares. “That’s one of the most rewarding parts for me. I visited with one of our original consignors the other day whose daughter I had watched grow up – she was there with her own child. It’s very special!”
Visit Etc. Consignment Shoppe at 690 Jonestown Road in Winston-Salem, NC, 336.659.7786 – and shop online at etcconsignmentshoppe.com. Store hours are Monday through Saturday 10:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. Always giving back, the store donates any home consignments they can’t accept or don’t sell to Greenest in Winston-Salem. They also donate to Dream Center, City Lights and Alpha Pregnancy.
Testimonial
“Love this store! Always something new for seasonal decor, everything is so neat and clean, and the staff is super nice and helpful. I always find bargains, whether new or gently-used items.” ~ Brenda J.
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