Senior Account Executive
As our Cincinnati marketing agency prepared to move into our new, permanent space, I had the pleasure of helping find great pieces at great prices, based largely on my personal experience of furnishing and decorating our home on a self-imposed budget.
When we built our home almost ten years ago, we had more space than “stuff.” A nice problem to have if you like to decorate and shop for furniture and accessories, like I do. A challenging problem to have if you flat out refuse to pay retail for anything, like I do. Therefore, I made it my mission to find any and all alternatives to the big name stores when it came to buying furniture and accessories. So, for those of you out there who feel the same way, I’ve compiled a list of my favorite haunts in Cincinnati— places where I believe you can get the biggest bang for your buck*.
*Side note: In my opinion, the only real drawback to this approach is that you won’t find everything you need right away or in one place. If you are a one-stop shopper, this probably isn’t for you. Having said that (and not being an uber-patient person by nature), the satisfaction I get from purchasing something that is significantly less than retail is well worth it.
Snooty Fox Furniture Den– Looking for high-quality, name brand pieces on consignment? Then go on, be snooty! From substantial, brand name pieces like a Thomasville chest of drawers, Broyhill dining table and chairs, and queen size, cherry headboard/footboard/side rails, to smaller accent items like artwork, lighting fixtures, rugs, and mirrors, Snooty has something for everyone. Another bonus? If you decide to make a change, you can recoup some of your investment by selling your pieces on consignment!
Hobby Lobby– This is THE place for a huge array of decorative accessories in almost any theme you can think of, picture frames, candles, wall décor, fabric (if you are so inclined to save money by teaching yourself how to sew after your mother gives you a sewing machine you didn’t ask for J). Hobby Lobby also carries a wide variety of seasonal and outdoor items. But buyer beware: it is not unlikely to see Christmas trees set up in August, so shop ahead and always, always, always check out the clearance aisle. Half price wrought iron birdcage wall décor, anyone?
TJ Maxx/Marshall’s/Home Goods-All three of these stores are great for finding high-end discounted household sundries like bedding, towels, throw pillows, etc. but did you know that they are also a great source for dog beds, picture frames, candles, decorative accessories, artwork, area rugs, lamps and storage solutions (think cute bins, baskets, accent tables and ottomans)?
Friends and Family– Yes, they are there for love and support. And, in some cases, they are also there to help you furnish your home frugally. Whether you are able to buy pieces using your friends and family discount or you REALLY luck out and things are given to you (I’m looking at you, Dad!), your friends and family may be a great source for pieces that they are ready to part with.
Happy Hunting!
