We were lucky to catch up with Abby Schneider recently and have shared our conversation below.

Abby, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. How did you come up with the idea? Tell us the story of how you came up with the idea for your business?

I started selling items on ebay in high school, loved fashion since I was a child, and worked in fashion retail for many years, and specifically worked for an upscale consignment store in college, so it wasn’t too far fetched that I eventually expanded to sell secondhand items online on a more regular basis, though this always stayed a side project for me. I started selling items regularly for a few reasons. 1) I had changed my consumption habits and wanted to sell items from my closet, ,and 2) my dog had been quite sick and needed many expensive and extensive procedures, and I needed to fund her treatment, and 3) covid had happened, and I wasn’t sure how stable my full-time job in the entertainment industry would be. Thus, Cruce Street Vintage was born.

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.

As I mentioned before, this was always a side project for me. Selling secondhand items really tied into my love for the environment and sustainability, and getting away from contributing to the textile waste in this country. This venture allowed me to provide unique, curated pieces for customers. I want readers and potential customers to know that Cruce Street aims to encourage secondhand shopping, mindful consumption, and giving back to the community. I often donate a percentage of my sales to organizations and causes that I care about. I have donated to local wildlife rescue, Walden’s Puddle, The Elephant Sanctuary, Safe Haven Family Shelter, which provides lodging for homeless families, environmental organizations, a young woman going through cancer treatments, local school bands, Old Friends Senior Dog Sanctuary and other animal rescue organizations, and many more.

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

Thankfully, this opportunity did not require any money up front. All of my inventory started from my own home, was given to me by friends and family, then occasional pieces I sourced from thrift stores or estate sales. I also do not pay anything for my packaging materials. I either already have them, or source them from local neighborhood or “buy nothing” facebook groups.

Can you share one of your favorite marketing or sales stories?

I don’t know that I have a favorite story, but there are two comments I love receiving from customers – 1) When they are absolutely thrilled with the item they purchased, either because they’re replacing a lost or broken sentimental item or something that reminded them of their childhood, or it’s a unique piece that they just really cherish. 2) When customers thank me for reusing packaging and my notes to encourage that they recycle or reuse the packaging.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://postmark.com/closet/crucestreet
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/crucestreet

Image Credits

Cruce Street Vintage