We were lucky to catch up with Tamara Stavrianoudakis recently and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Tamara thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Crazy stuff happening is almost as certain as death and taxes – it’s technically “unexpected” but something unexpected happening is to be expected and so can you share a crazy story with our readers

Debbie Reynolds’ son came into my store and asked if we wanted any furs or wardrobe which was used in movies that his mother collected. I said, “Sure!” He invited us out to his warehouses where I saw all the costumes from Gone With The Wind, Forrest Gump and so many others. I was like a kid in a candy store!

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

Welcome to Upscale Resale!

Since 2008, we’ve offered new and gently used women’s apparel and accessories from finer stores like Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus, Saks 5th Avenue, Johnny Was, and more—at up to 90% off retail prices.

We also feature locally made Vine Street Apparel as well as New With Tags apparel which we mark 50% off retail. 60 days later it comes down another 30%.

High-end style, small-town prices—discover the best of both worlds with us!

Shop with us on Poshmark to see some of our best items @upscale_shop.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

During Covid, we had to close for 10 weeks but we sold gift cards and posted items to Facebook & Instagram which people could pick up outside. The community really came out to support this small business which has been going strong for over 17 years.

Can you talk to us about how you funded your business?

Since we are a consignment boutique, we just emailed everyone we knew (this was back before social media) and people came out and dropped off their clothes and we paid them as they sold.
It’s like a micro-economy: local moms get money from the sale of their items and then shop locally and spend it here.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.UpscaleResaleConsignment.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/upscale.resale/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UpscaleResaleConsignmentBoutique/
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/upscale-resale-womens-designer-consignor-boutique-templeton-4