Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Woman’s Exchange?
Established in 1962, the Woman’s Exchange is a nonprofit tax-exempt organization ((IRS designated 501(c)3)) with a central purpose: To support and enrich a variety of programs for local cultural organizations affiliated with the arts. Funds for this purpose are realized through our downtown store where merchandise to be sold is accepted both by donation and on consignment from individuals and organizations.
How much money has the Woman’s Exchange contributed to its cause?
The Woman’s Exchange has awarded 7 million dollars in grants and scholarships to individuals and nonprofit organizations in Sarasota! And, Millions more in merchandise and clothing to area charities and humanitarian organizations.
When are general merchandise consignments accepted?
Consignments are accepted from 8:30am to 11am Monday, Wednesday and Friday the First Three Weeks of the Month. To schedule a Consignment Appointment for a time more convenient to you, please call 941-955-7859, Ext 302. Furniture and fine jewelry are consigned by appointment only; call 955-7859. Pickup service available for a fee.
When are clothing consignments accepted?
Clothing is accepted the first three consignment days of the month from 8:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.and must be freshly cleaned and on hangers. To schedule a Consignment Appointment for a time more convenient to you, please call 941-955-7859 Ext 302.
When are furniture and precious jewelry consignments accepted?
Furniture and precious jewelry are consigned by appointment only! Please call 955-7859, Extension 301 for furniture consignments or Extension 302 for jewelry consignments..
Is there a list of items which cannot be accepted for consignment?
Yes, a comprehensive list of non-consignable items is always available at the Business Office or the "Back Door" on consignment days. Please ask for a copy. A general list of non-consignable items is available here through this link: General List of Non-Consignable Items. The list will open into a new window for viewing or printing using Adobe PDF format. If your PC-Compatible computer system does not have Adobe Acrobat Reader, you may download it at this link: Download Adobe Acrobat Reader. When prompted, click "Open" and follow the on-screen prompts. The latest version of the Reader will be installed on your PC. The program is free and universally accepted for viewing PDF files. Mac users may log into http://www.adobe.com/products/acrobat/readstep2.html and follow the links to the Mac version of the software for installation on a Mac. Please note that some non-consignable items include those with safety or hygiene concerns, while others are things we know through experience will not sell well enough to warrant acceptance.
Who sets the price for an item?
Prices are set by our pricing committee. Our acceptors do not price. Your priced list of consigned items is mailed with your first check. If you feel an item is particularly valuable, you MUST bring it to the attention of the pricing supervisor AND attach a note. The decision of the Woman’s Exchange regarding pricing and acceptance is final.
How long does an item remain on the sales floor and what happens if an item "expires"?
All items remain on the selling floor for 60 days unless reclaimed by the Consignor. Items will be marked down up to 25% after the 21-day point and up to 50% after the 42-day point. Once an item has been on the selling floor for 60 days and not sold or "picked up" by the consignor, the item becomes the property of the Woman’s Exchange.
Can I purchase a consigned item by telephone?
Yes! Monday through Friday, you may call our Business Office, 955-7859, Extension 300 between 10:30a.m. and 3:30p.m. Please have the Item Description, Consignor Number and Item Number available when you call. This information is contained on the Sale Tag. In-store customers take precedence in the event a phone purchase is made simultaneous with an in-store purchase. THE Woman’s EXCHANGE CANNOT ACCEPT A VOICE MESSAGE TO PURCHASE ANY ITEM. Please, NO Pre-Purchases. NO EXCEPTIONS.
What is the procedure for a consignor to pick up a consigned item during the 60-day consignment period?
During the 60-day consignment period, the consignor may remove any of his or her consigned items during regular Business Hours, Monday through Friday. Simply locate the item in the store and bring it to the Business Office. The item will be removed from inventory. Only the consignor of record may remove items from inventory. This is done by showing your personal identification and signing a standard "Pickup" slip. The Business Office is open Monday through Friday, 10:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. The Business Office is closed on Saturday, therefore, please arrange for any pick-ups accordingly.
How much does the consignor receive when an item is sold?
Consignors receive 65% of the selling price when an item is sold. Checks are mailed by the 15th of each month for prior month consignment sales.
What happens to unacceptable items?
Articles which are found to be unacceptable by the Pricing Committee will be donated directly to local charities. No notification will be issued. While we are as careful with your items as we can be, neither the Woman’s Exchange nor its employees, agents or volunteer workers shall be liable for any theft, loss or damage with respect to any consignment merchandise.
Are there any suggestions or hints to help consignors better prepare their consignment items?
Yes, always check items for wear, fading and flaws. A little attention before coming may save disappointment at acceptance. If you have Adobe Acrobat Reader, here is a current Hints List for you. Cleanliness counts! Dusty, soiled, tarnished or stained items are not acceptable! Holiday items? Bring them in at least five weeks in advance for maximum sales prospects. Battery-operated items must have batteries and be in working condition. Clothing must be freshly cleaned and on hangers. Dishes, glasses, etc. accepted in sets of 4 or more. Table linens, window dressings and the like must be labeled with measurements. Seasonal: Christmas items accepted October and November only. Winter Clothing accepted October through December and Furs by appointment. Lamps and lighted chandeliers should have working bulbs installed. Acceptable electrical appliances must be in working condition with original carton and documentation whenever possible.
What happens to unsold items?
If your consigned items are not sold and you do not pick them up by the 60th day, they become the property of the Woman’s Exchange. Such items may be held for a seasonal sales event such as our annual August Sale. At our discretion, items may be simply donated to a local charity or sold during special sales or promotions. The important thing to remember is that your sold consignments directly benefit our community. Thank you for your support!
What is First Friday?
The first Friday evening of every month, the Woman’s Exchange is open until 9:00 p.m. in conjunction with neighboring businesses. Join us for a relaxing evening of browsing and buying.
Does the Woman’s Exchange accept Donations?
The Woman’s Exchange appreciates and encourages donations. If you would prefer to donate, please note that the Woman’s Exchange is a nonprofit tax-exempt organization as defined under Section 501(c)3 of the Internal Revenue Code. A tax receipt is available.
