Thrift Shop Photo Session in Princeton, NJ

I think we’ve all figured out that it’s cool (and sustainable) to thrift. If you are new to this news, welcome! The options for second-hand clothing are more readily available now, both in-person and online. If you’re lucky like me, you’ll have an amazing, small business thrift store in your town. I am seriously blessed living so close to the Nearly New Shop in Princeton, New Jersey. It has become my go-to and it’s definitely my favorite place to shop for clothes! The diversity and unique items will make anyone’s wardrobe one of a kind!

Right before stores, businesses and schools got shut down (thanks COVID), I snagged an opportunity to interview Toni Maher, the owner of Nearly New. PLUS, I got to bring in two awesome now-graduated seniors (congrats Kaitlyn and Nina!!) to check out the store, play dress up and do a fun thrift photoshoot with me.

Now that businesses are starting to open up again, I was so excited to find out that Nearly New will be re-opening its doors THIS MONDAY (June 15th, y’all). So if you’ve been thinking about making an eco-friendly wardrobe upgrade, now is the time to start by visiting the Nearly New Shop!

My drive to move towards a more environmentally friendly lifestyle and encourage others to do the same prompted me to ask Toni all about the store, their story, and the significance of thrift shopping:

Tell us a little about Nearly New Shop. What do you do? 

Nearly New shop is a non-profit consignment / thrift store that has been serving the Princeton Community since 1944. Over 75 years! We take donations during store hours and a tax slip can be given since we are non-profit. Consignors receive 50% when their item sells. Many of our customers are regulars who stop in every week and we know each other by name & share many stories. Every day we go through clothing, tag and stock the store. It is very exciting to see what treasures come in daily and what we can share with our customers, our Nearly New Friends!

What is your philosophy or inspiration for what you do? 

Our philosophy is to create a unique resale environment where our customers can express themselves, find one of a kind items and have a fun shopping experience. We are proud to offer sustainable shopping as opposed to fast fashion clothing while giving back to the community.

Do you think thrift shopping has become more popular as people have become more aware of the negative impact fast fashion has on the environment? 

The negative effect that fast fashion has on the environment has definitely made thrifting more popular. Thrifting is recycling and is good for the environment. Thrifting gives well made, fine clothing “new life”.  It reduces pollution and waste. It is so much fun seeing middle school, high school, and college students so excited to shop in their “favorite thrift store!” Years ago wearing second-hand clothing was widely looked down upon, but now thrifting is actually cool!

What is the most rewarding part of being a thrift shop owner?

The most rewarding part of being a thrift shop owner is when a customer finds that treasure and is so excited about their purchase. It is rewarding to create special friendly relationships with our customers. It is very rewarding to offer our community an affordable shopping option. Our passion for fashion, sustainability, and giving back to the community continues to add to the success of the Nearly New Shop.

A big thank you to Toni and the Nearly New Shop! Thank you for letting Kaitlyn, Nina, and I have a blast at the shop and have a mini photoshoot! We appreciate your amazing small business and contributions towards an environmentally friendly future for everyone!

If you are anywhere near Princeton, New Jersey you’ve got to check out the shop!

2021 Seniors, are you interested in having your senior session done by me? Be sure to get in touch HERE to check out the experience and sign up for more info!

Talk soon!
Fabiola