Thrifty Travels - "THRIFTED in Texas!"

Location: Goodwill Thrift Store Killen, TX

I love to travel and thrift! My first thrifty travel experience was when Dom and I took a thrifting trip to Chattanooga, TN. We were amazed at how much Chatt had to offer when it came to thrifting! Oh how I missed her, for this thrifting trip to Texas! I was visiting my mom and family in Killen, TX where my sister is stationed. I am so proud of my sister! She is a member of the United States Army and has selflessly served our country!

While we were out running errands,  I just so happen to see Goodwill. I had to stop and check it out! I dragged my sis Jasmin and my friend Ryan with me. I was impressed with the size of the store and its variety of items to choose from. My sister was new to the wonderful world of thrifting but she was interested in finding a few dresses. We were unsuccessful at a finding a dress for her, but we did happen to find a jumper in my size so Jasmin bough it for me! (YAY) I love thrifted gifts!

It is essential when you go thrifting out of town to always have a budget on hand; having self discipline and knowing when to stop once your budget has been met is extremely vital. Scope out the scene first and inquire about the best reasonable stores to check out in the area. Some stores can be a little too pricey, evaluate carefully and do your research before making your purchase.

Overall, I really enjoyed my thrifting experience in Texas and most importantly it was more memorable being able to share it with family and friends.

-Sheika, Team TT

"A Thrifty Hand"

Isaiah 41:13, “For I am the LORD your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you.”

 This Word spoken to me gave instant peace and rest! What a privilage to know that the Lord, my God holds my hand and is with little old me. For many of us this is a time for graduation, job hunting, or decision making for the next stage in our life. Just remember that the Lord, your God is always with you. He will supply your every need and He is a keeper. Stay prayerful, meditate, do the work He has called you to, and rest in His word. Gee Wilikers, He said He would help YOU!

Let’s talk about this awesome thrifted look of mine! My cute, thrifted, strap-less dress was gifted by my spiritual mother, Mrs. Katherine Williams while visiting the Goodwill in Mobile, AL. Isn’t my purse just unique? Well, it’s also thrifted! Again, my spiritual mother gifted this purse from the Goodwill in Mobile, AL. My jean jacket is Calvin Klein. I’ve had it since I was 16. Wowzers! My shoes are by my favorite shoe designer, Nine West Co. and I’ve had them since 2006. My cute pink scarf is from Wal-Mart. Even as the weather gets a little warmer, remember to stay modest! As they say, "the modest are the hottest" lol.

May I offer a thrifty tip? When your thrifting, I encourage you to be generous and shop for someone other than yourself. You may never know someone’s struggle. Yes, you can bless others with stuff that comes from thrift stores. Trust me; your act of humility and kindness will be immeasurable. Everyone needs a thrifty hand every once in a while.

-Sheika, Team TT

“CLEEEEEAN Inside and Out”

“First clean the inside of the cup and dish, and then the outside also will be clean.” Matthew 23:26 NIV

Usually in the spring season, I like to do deep cleaning of my home, car, office, and closet! Not the usual cleaning, I like to get inside the cracks, dust things off, and get rid of old clothing; by donating them to a local thrift store of course. Clothes that have gotten too small, too big, or just not my style anymore, I give them away. This spring because I’m away from home, I really don’t have many things to deep clean, but ME (Domonique)! I’m really taking time out to focus on getting cleeeean inwardly, that way it reflects outwardly in how I carry myself, dress, and act! There are some things I need to get rid of jealousy, negativity, impure thoughts; the list goes on and on. Of course being a Christian woman I want to dress modestly, but more than anything I want God to be pleased with me in EVERY area of my life. What good am I to the kingdom if I’m just clean on the outside?! This Spring season I encourage you to join me in my Spring cleaning inwardly; take the time to purify and sanctify yourselves from the inside out! Living life modestly is not limited to how you dress but how you speak, react in difficult situations, and carry yourself. “Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as elaborate hairstyles and the wearing of gold jewelry or fine clothes. Rather, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight. “1 Peter 3:2-4 NIV

*Dom’s Thrift Tip: Let your thrifted ensemble compliment your inward beauty, as you get cleeeeean inside and out during this season! It’s totally ok to dress nice; just ensure you’re cleaning the inside of the cup too (Matt 23:26). Oh by the way, let me tell you about my thrifted-fit lol! The button down was purchased at NY&C, my scarf was made by my beautiful Grandma, the jacket was gifted, the pants and belt are THRIFTED, and the shoes were borrowed by our very own Ambreia!

“She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.” Proverbs 31:25 NIV

Blessings from over yonder ;-)


-Dom, TeamTT

“THRIFTED 2gether 4ever”

Introducing Eddie and Stephanie Davis…

TT: Where are your guys originally from?
The Davis’: Eddie is from Birmingham, AL and Stephanie is from Atlanta, GA.

TT: What school did you graduate from?
The Davis’: We both graduated from Alabama A&M University

TT: How did you guys meet?
The Davis’: We met while attending AAMU.

TT: What do you guys enjoy most about thrifting?
The Davis’: Stephanie: The thing I enjoy the most is the element of surprise! I love the fact that I find high end name brand clothing, although I am not big into brand names. When I find Michael Kors and Ann Taylor items at the thrift store, it instantly brings a smile to my face. Eddie: I enjoy saving money, but at the same time getting quality clothing.

TT: If you could give a tip to other rooky thrifters out there, what would it be?
The Davis’: Stephanie: My advice would be to go in expecting to find great items; I never go thrifting without knowing that I will always find something super cute. Also, be sure to look through the racks more than one time. There is usually so much and sometimes we scroll through the racks so fast that we may miss something, so go back through and double check. Eddie: Don’t be discouraged, there is always a diamond in the rough, be patient and you will walk away with something that satisfies your inner king!

For Stephanie’s solo shoot her shirt, pants and ring are THRIFTED!

For the couple shoot Stephanie’s dress is THRIFTED; Eddie’s Pants and jacket are THRIFTED!

-Team TT

"Without Blemish or Defect"

A Worthy Sacrifice

It is amazing to see people get fancy, wearing their best garments and flashy shoes to come together and celebrate the resurrection of our King. If the ultimate sacrifice was not made for you and for me, could we be as clean on the inside as we are on the outside for Easter? I am so thankful that the redeemer came and paid the ultimate price to redeem us. I believe it is most appropriate to place emphasis on why the price was paid.

It was customary by Mosaic Law for the priest (B.C.) to offer an animal sacrifice to God because, “ In fact, the law requires that nearly everything be cleansed with blood, and without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness” (Hebrews 9:22). Since this type of sacrifice wasn't effective over time, thus repeated often, there was prophesy of a worthy sacrifice to be fulfilled in Hebrews 7:27,”… He sacrificed for their sins once for all when he offered himself.” HIS blood is precious and HE was the lamb without blemish or defect (1 Peter 1:19) and HIS blood redeemed, made us new creations in Christ (2 Corinthians5:17). It makes “….our consciences pure from useless acts so we may serve the living God” (Hebrews9:14). Since we appreciate the price paid, when you shop for the occasion, consider thrift stores. You will save more money and are guaranteed not to see anyone else with your #thrifting outfit . Remember, most importantly, we go to worship and offer an abundance of praise for the worthy sacrifice, not to impress others with our dress.

I die daily (Luke 9:23-24) to make sure my inward man matches my outward appearance. This outfit is thrifted and gifted. My dress and earrings are thrifted from Restore Ministries in Huntsville, AL. The dress and earrings were $1.00 a piece. My shoes are Gianni Bini were picked out by my best friend Lac ( he has impeccable taste) on clearance, and my cardigan and watch is New York and Co. My purse is thrifted from Downtown Rescue Mission Thrift Store in Huntsville, AL (I waited 3 mos. for it to be marked down 50%). My necklace was gifted by my mom and it’s Lia Sophia. If you like my necklace, check out my Aunt Mona’s Lia Sophia web page @ http://www.liaspohia.com/monadeea%20 .

I thank you Lord that you call me friend, laid down your life, and was raised, so that your spirit dwells in me, that I may live and be set free. #RealLove


-Sheika, Team TT

Thrifty Threads Store Spotlight - "Restore Ministry Inc."

Restore Ministry Inc. “Get the best for less. Let us serve you."

“That both he that soweth, and he that reapeth may rejoice together.” - John 4:36

Store Owner: Jewelon Burnett
Store Location: 2107 Meridian St. Suite A, Huntsville, AL. 35811
Store Hours: Mon.-Fri., 10:00am-6:00pm, Closed Saturday & Sunday
Store Number: (256) 489-7864

This is an amazing thrifted boutique that sells everything from clothes, shoes, jewelry, household goods, etc. What makes this thrift store even more thrift-diggity, is that majority of all the items in the store are only priced at $1.00?! You cannot beat that thrifty deal with a pair of new thrifty shoes! This is one of my favorite thrift stores because the customer service is superb, I can go in and come out with an entire thrifted outfit, shoes, and accessories all for $5.00. There is a lounge area if you want to relax and take a break while shopping and a coffee bar too! There are free clothes available from time-to-time located outside the store during business hours (I actually picked up a pink blazer, for free…POW), and the ministry host fashion shows on occasions.

Now let’s find out more about Restore Ministry and the visionary Jewelon Burnett…

TT: What inspired you to open a thrift store?
Jewelon Burnett: It was a vision. The Lord showed me the vision and that’s how I started. I probably wouldn’t have started it if God didn’t show it to me.

TT: What makes your thrift store different from other thrift stores in the community?
Jewelon Burnett: Like I said, the Lord gave it to me in a vision, I’m not sure what HE had given the others, but that’s makes the difference because it was a vision from the Lord.

TT: What would be your thrifting tip to thrifters?
Jewelon Burnett: Think about the people and as they come in to shop, it’s about the people. When they come in you want to make them feel good about themselves. When they walk in, a lot of us don’t have a whole lot of money, but we don’t have to feel that way. So that would be my tip.

TT: Do you mind if I add in that EVERYTHING here is $1.00?
Jewelon Burnett: Yes you may!

TT: I was told that you actually started this boutique out of your home. Would you like to elaborate on that?
Jewelon Burnett: When the Lord gave me the vision I didn’t hesitate. I just moved everything out of my rec room that I have and I set the boutique up in my rec room. I told people about it, people started coming, people started donating, and by word of mouth people started pouring in. I knew it was from God because I had friends to help me and when they walked in they would say, "Wow. I don’t know what it is about the room but I love working in it and helping you.” So I knew it was from God.

-Sheik, Team TT 

"Sunrise"

“He has risen!” Mark 16:6 NIV 

This weekend we recognize the resurrection of our Savior, Jesus Christ (1)! As I prepared to type this blog post, I couldn’t help but be excited! Not about the thrifted ensemble I would highlight, but because HE rose! HE was pierced for our transgressions, beaten for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on HIM, and by HIS stripes we’re healed! (2) Before I could type anything about my thrifted Easter dress I had to stop and reverence HIM. This weekend it’s not about what we wear, but let’s be reminded of how much HE loves us! (3) HE died on the cross for all of our sins, so that we would have a chance at eternal life! (4) More importantly the SON rose on the third day, our REDEEMER LIVES… HE is at the right hand of GOD and is also interceding for us. (5) Glory to HIS name!

You do NOT have to spend a whole lot of money on an outfit for Resurrection Sunday. Go and see what your local thrift stores have available! This yellow dress I’m wearing is a perfect example. It was only $12! Last year I spent over $100 on my ensemble. Just thinking about it makes me shake my head. Boy, have I learned the error of my ways!

The dress and bow are thrifted, earrings gifted, and the clutch and shoes were purchased from DSW.

**Dom’s Thrift Tip: Instead of hitting up the mall this Easter Sunday, go hit up the thrift store and spend half of what you would at the mall and still look nice!

Scripture References: 
(1) Mark 16; 1 Corinthians 15: 1-11 
(2) Isaiah 53:5 
(3) John 15:13 
(4) John 3:16 
(5) Romans 8:34 

-Dom, TeamTT

*Dom's Photography is Provided by Letoria Mayberry

Thrifty Threader Spotlight - "A THRIFTED Family Affair"

Introducing The DeCastro Family

TT: What schools/universities are you guys representing?
The DeCastro’s: Kathy DeCastro, Grey and purple blouse/grey pants (A&M), Jason DeCastro, grey and purple (Capella), Xavier Bryant, khaki and burgundy (A&M), Sakierra Grant, multi-colored Top/yellow belt and blue dress pants (Liberty Middle School), Rahdeja DeCastro, Black pants/ black blouse with pink and white stars (Creekside Elementary), Ulani DeCastro, blue jeans/white and brown top (Creekside Elementary)

TT: How has thrifting benefited your family and your lifestyle?
Mrs. DeCastro: Thrifting has become a way of life for our family. We save money on clothes that gently worn and sometimes new. My kids enjoy shopping in the thrift store because I just say “ok go and find you a couple outfits and let me see what you get”. They love to shop for themselves and I feel comfortable doing this because the prices are so low and you’re getting good merchandise.

TT: Mrs. DeCastro, what inspires your thrifting style?
Mrs. DeCastro: My thrifting was inspired by my Mom; she did the same thing with me and my brothers growing up in Syracuse, New York. We always shopped at this real big church that had a thrift store inthe basement. My style has caused me to thrift more; Domonique (Dom) has shown me that you can put almost anything together if you know how to wear it.

TT: How did you and Mr. DeCastro meet and how long have you been married?
Mrs. DeCastro: My hubby and I met in the Army and we’ve been married for almost 4 years!

TT: What thrifting tip would you like to share with other thrifters?
Mrs. DeCastro: My tip would be to take the time and look, do not go thrifting if you don’t have the time or the patience because you will surely miss out on something. Another would be to try things on and wash all clothing or take them to the cleaners.

-Team TT