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Business & Tech

Children's Boutique Offers Quality Clothes Cheap

Once Again Kids, a new way to shop and trade quality clothing.

As a self described high-energy, empty nester, going from full-time childcare provider to entrepreneur was a logical jump for Linda Stockhaus.

Stockhaus, a longtime Shrewsbury resident and full-time childcare provider, is the co-owner of the new resale boutique which opened in June of 2010. Her husband, David, a lifelong Shrewsbury resident is the owner of the business and Stockhaus, herself, is in charge of the buying and the day to day operation.

"I enjoy the juggling, which keeps both businesses running smoothly," Stockhaus said. "It fulfills the creative side of my personality as well as my satisfaction in providing needed services to area families."

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Stockhaus feels strongly that resale is a necessity in a down economy, and she works hard to ensure that she is doing everything possible for her customers satisfaction, particularly when it comes to buying clothing.

"I look at each item individually to determine if it is something I would have purchased for my children," Stockhaus said. "We receive many new items with the tags still attached. It is a balancing act to pay the seller a fair price, and to keep our prices as low as possible. I believe resale and consignment shops should work together in order to provide a service to families in a down economy."

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Once Again Kids offers all types of clothing ranging in size from newborn to a 12/14. From halloween costumes to partywear, Once Again Kids offers it all.

Along with clothing, dance wear and costumes, Once Again Kids also sells footwear including soccer cleats, shoes and skates.

"Our inventory also includes toys, books, CD's, DVD's and large equipment items, " Stockhaus said. "Our items are purchased from families in the area. We pay cash or offer store credit for the items."

Stockhaus is looking to offer her customers a new way to shop. She feels strongly that we, as a society, need to get away from the instinct to throw everything away. She hopes to offer an opportunity for folks to make some money back for clothes no longer needed, and to provide a beautiful place for people to shop.

"Many of our customers request store credit which gives them a higher percentage of return on their items," Stockhaus said. "We offer specials, discounts and deals regularly via our newsletter and on Facebook. We also offer free store credit with a minimum purchase."

Once Again Kids also offers regular discounts to daycare providers, military families and others. Clothes that don't sell are often sent on to charity at the customer's request.

Once Again Kids is staffed by dedicated moms who love what they do, but Stockhaus notes that it was advice from her sister that led her to open a children's resale boutique.

"Do what you know," Stockhaus's sister said. "I know and love everything involving children, and I believe we offer a valuable service to the community," Stockhaus said.

Once Again Kids is located at 26 Maple Ave in Shrewsbury. To learn more about the types of clothes accepted, the hours of the store or other valuable information, visit their website.

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