by Kristen Bagwell

Who's ready to shop? The spring consignment sales are here again! Many shows are available in the Triangle area whether you are a seller or a shopper, so check the list below to see which one (or two or three) work best for you.

The consignment shows below are listed by date, with the earliest shows at the top. Tip: find and "like" these shows on Facebook for seasonal updates and inside info! Read More

By Chrissy Freeman

Chrissy is the brains behind ConsignmentMommies.com, a fabulous consignment directory and social media resource for every shopper no matter your zip code. Chrissy is a mom who lives in Greensboro, and while her site features a ton of great Triad and Triangle sales, you can also search other sales happening around the country. Be sure to check her site often to find the latest sales (many of which are ranked), and sign up for her newsletter to get alerts in advance! - KB

Repeat after me: Consignment Sales are not Garage Sales, Consignment Sales are not Garage Sales..." There's a lot of "misunderstanding" about consignment sales. Until you've been to a really good one, its hard to appreciate the full value in these sales. If you are one of those trendy moms who is skeptical of the whole consignment thing, here are a few things you should know... Read More

by Kristen Bagwell

Readers, we want to show how much we appreciate your support over the past year as Triangle Moms On Main has grown. And so...drum roll please...welcome to our second annual Holiday Giveaway! Two lucky readers will win a gift package valued at nearly $600 (each) on Friday December 16, just in time for Christmas!

Keep reading to see the participating merchants, and don't forget to register at the end of this post. Also, please visit these spots to do some holiday shopping or just to treat yourself, and tell them we sent you. (That will help us to bring you more free stuff!)

Oh, and one more thing - make sure you pass this giveaway along to your friends, because if one of them is our lucky winner, YOU ALSO WIN! Just tell your friends to enter your name on the survey where it asks how you heard about us. Bonus - if they also like the Triangle MOM facebook page, your name will get thrown into the hat twice, which doubles your chances of winning! Read More

sponsored by Lowes Foods


Gift Cards make the perfect present for anyone on your list! Whether you are looking for great stocking stuffers or something special for a loved one, gift cards are a simple way to please everyone!   Read More

by guest blogger Heather Burns

Hello fellow moms and moms-to-be.  I haven’t blogged in a while, but I’ve been so busy running a store and being pregnant, I have forgotten to write.  So just wanted to share some late night thoughts and reflections about life, motherhood, and just being present.

So for those that don’t know, I have two boys, just turned 5 and 8.  Seems crazy to think I have an eight-year old.  I remember moving into this neighborhood when I was pregnant with Dillon.  The neighbors had children from 3 to 9, and I remember thinking how far apart we were in life.  Now I realize we were not so far apart at all.  After having children, your life speeds up exponentially.  Is it because you are busier, and thus time flies?  Or is it because you are older?  I think the former is true. Read More

by Kristen Bagwell

All moms deserve recognition just for being incredible people!  Here at Triangle Moms On Main, we want to highlight local moms and give them the props they deserve.  Meet these extraordinary women who are making a difference in the lives of their families, friends, strangers, and the community.  They might be movers, shakers, entrepreneurs, athletes, volunteers, or caregivers, but most importantly … they are moms! Read More

by Kristen Bagwell

All moms deserve recognition just for being incredible people!  Here at Triangle Moms On Main, we want to highlight local moms and give them the props they deserve.  Meet these extraordinary women who are making a difference in the lives of their families, friends, strangers, and the community.  They might be movers, shakers, entrepreneurs, athletes, volunteers, or caregivers, but most importantly … they are moms! Read More

by Kristen Bagwell

When we posted our original Fall Consignment Sale schedule, several of the sales had not yet finalized their date and location information. Below are several updates for the Triangle area consignment sales in September and October. There are still a ton of shows to explore, and many are still accepting consignors. Happy Shopping! Read More

by Rachel Hoeing, Triad MOM

A big thank you to Rachel for doing all the hard work...now it's time to find some swimsuit deals!

Summer is half over.  (Gulp)  But now is the time to stock up on swimwear for your children for next summer!  I know some of you are a little apprehensive about purchasing clothing for the future when you have no idea how much your child will grow over the next twelve months, but I have done this for years and more often than not, the clothes fit. 

I usually buy one size up, and if it looks tiny, I will go two sizes up.  Better to have something too big and put it back in the closet for another season, than too small and they never get to wear it.  If you do end up ordering things that are too small by the time the next season rolls around, you can always consign!  A bathing suit with tags still on it will sell!

Here are a few of my favorite children's clothing websites that currently have their swimwear on sale.  Simply visit the site and click on the children's section and clearance/sale section!  *Many of these have adult swimwear on sale, too! Read More

by Kristen Bagwell

If you've been reading Triangle MOM for a while, you know I love a good sale. However, if you aren't so sure about the benefits of children's consignment sales (or if you aren't so sure what it even means), check out our previous post from Chrissy Freeman, the genius behind www.ConsignmentMommies.com. For those of us that love a bargain, kids' consignment sales are often the way to go, and many of the items are new with tags still on them! 

When your kids are tiny, you can often purchase an entire seasonal wardrobe for $1-2 each piece. (Trust me on this one - my friend Kimberly does it twice each year.) As they age, you can still find some steals and deals on clothing, books, games, gear, and more. Below is an overview of the upcoming children's consignment sales in our area, listed in order by date. For a full listing in any area nationally, be sure check out Chrissy's website. You may never pay full price for kid stuff again! Read More

by Kristen Bagwell

When I found out I was having a little girl a few years ago, I could not wait to go shopping! All of my mommy friends warned me, though - when your kids grow so quickly, it’s important to find quality clothing that is also a good value. The Patsy Aiken Outlet in Raleigh is the best of both worlds, offering comfy, high-quality clothing at great prices for children ages newborn through 16. For those of you who have not yet experienced this Mom’s Choice Award-winning store, your next opportunity is coming this Thursday, June 16.  Read More

by Kristen Bagwell

It's the moment we've all been waiting for! Let's find out who you have chosen as the cream of the crop, tip of the top, best in the Triangle...because you said so!  Read More

by Kristen Bagwell

A few weeks ago, one of my FB friends posted as her status message: "New program on TLC called Extreme Couponing. Is this stuff for real? Discuss." I will admit that I went through a stage where I would buy nothing without a coupon, and was doing my best to clip and save coupons for the super double and triple coupon weeks at our local stores. I found, though, that I was buying things that I wouldn't normally buy, or didn't even need, just because I had a coupon.

For anyone who is truly brand loyal (I'm not), coupons are more of a special occasion thing than your daily m.o. However, I know everyday moms who will spend $12 for $60 worth of groceries, without blinking an eye. Is it realistic to think that someday I wouldn't need to budget for groceries much, or at all? I can't imagine it, but there are super-couponers out there who swear this is true for them.  Read More

by Kristen Bagwell
If you remember our Holiday Giveaway, you'll remember Goosie Pie Monograms. If not, keep reading - it's time to find out what you're missing! Comment on this blog to win one of two $25 gift cards to spend any way you want...and the choices are endless!

Goosie Pie has a great selection for mom, dad, babies, and kids of all ages. Choose from can wraps, coolers, tote bags, blankets, travel mugs, jewelry, decals, and even soap - there are so many choices, and the products are adorable. Make sure you check out the New Products section, featuring towels, plates and bowls, pet mats, acrylic serving wear, monogrammable candles (!!) and my favorite - a minky pillow case - all customizable.  Read More

by Kristen Bagwell

Do you need to shop for your kids, but could do without the trip to the mall? Do you like to shop online, but wish you could see and feel the clothes first? Do you want stylish, name-brand clothing without the retail price? If you said yes to any of these questions, keep reading to learn more about La Boutique for Kids. Read More

by Pam Mullaney, Dress Raleigh

If any of you are like myself, you indulge in what's going to be the hottest look for the next season. Always watching what your favorite celebrity is wearing or thumbing through the pages of your latest issue of Vogue...on the edge of your seat for what's the trend for SPRING! After this frigid Winter, I'm already counting down the days until I can pull out my pastels and throw my heavy coats and cashmere scarf to the back of my closet!  Read More

by Shannon Ford

I love a great pair of heels.  They definitely help in elongating my petite frame; however, with a rambunctious 14 month old, they are not always the practical choice in my closet.  I have been in search of the perfect flat that can go from day to night…and did I mention withstand the elements…or at least rain?  I have a number of cute flats that are adorable…in tweed, silk, etc.  But if it rains, I want to go barefoot in order to save my shoes! Read More

by Shannon Ford

I am a consignment sale junkie!  I love the thrill of the wait, search, and big finds!  My first consignment run of 2011 was  the original Kids Exchange Sale at the NC State Fairgrounds.  This is a big one with more items than you can possibly imagine.  You can find anything from a designer diaper bag to a gently used bike for your kids.  This year, I consigned and volunteered to work the sale in order to shop early.  So I arrived on Wednesday night with my big empty bag in hand.  Once again, I scored amazing finds.  I thought I would share a few of them. Read More

by Kristen Bagwell

Are you a consignment sale junkie, or does the thought make you shiver a little bit? If you aren't so sure about the benefits of children's consignment sales (or if you aren't so sure what it even means), check out our previous post from Chrissy Freeman, the genius behind www.ConsignmentMommies.com. For those of us that love a bargain, kids' consignment sales are often the way to go, and many of the items are new with tags still on them!  Read More

by Kristen Bagwell

Quite honestly, I wondered how retail stores would handle the day after Christmas falling on Sunday this year as it's a major conflict for people who worship in houses other than the mall...it seems as though there are far fewer 0:dark:30 and 5am starts this year. Given the weather, I'd call before you head out anywhere, although the main roads have been treated.  Read More

by Kristen Bagwell
 
Merry Christmas everyone! I wish each of you a wonderful, blessed holiday with family and friends.

(Tune in later today for the scoop on early store openings and Dec. 26 sales  : )
 Read More

By Triad MOM guest blogger Rebecca Albertson, author of Traveling With Mercy blog. (This article was originally printed in the December 2010 edition of Forsyth Woman Magazine).

This was too good a topic to pass up. Most of the store references in this article are in the Triad area, but we have some similar spots in the Triangle. For example, there are two Ten Thousand Villages locations, one in Cameron Village, Raleigh and one in Eastgate shopping center in Chapel Hill. Read on... Read More

by Kristen Bagwell

Giveaway day is finally here! It's been so much fun coordinating this promo, and now the best part is here - awarding the winners! Without further ado... Read More

by Kristen Bagwell

Hi everyone - just wanted to remind you that our two Holiday Giveaway Winners will be selected tonight at 8pm. Make sure your name is in the drawing - click here to register! If you had not seen our sponsor list before, check it out below. These are great local businesses!  Read More

by guest blogger Pam M., owner of Dress in Raleigh

Who says you can't wear white after Labor Day? This lusciously stark color is actually just right for frigid temperatures, since it's so evocative of snow and Winter solitude. To wear Winter white, just be sure to choose textures—like leather, wool, and bouclé—that are undoubtedly wintery, rather than something like eyelet or linen that looks better suited to springtime. Also, don't be afraid to pair your whites with darker, high-contrast duds. Read More

By Guest Blogger, Amy Takacs

Not only is this a fabulous gift idea for girls, boys, and ladies, but you will be donating to a terrific cause. Just in time for Black Friday - keep reading for all the info on how to shop and give at the same time!

As a Mom, we all get a little Google-obsessed when it comes to our child’s health. I was no exception when my youngest daughter was diagnosed with Type 1 (Juvenile) Diabetes just this April. At the young age of six, my “Extra Sweet” girl as I call her was sentenced to a life of daily pricks and insulin shots. While I call her Extra Sweet, she did not contract this disease from eating too much sugar. Her body no longer produces insulin like yours and I do. But, we’ll save the medical lesson on the difference in Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes for another blog entry. Read More

by guest blogger Pam M.

It's impossible not to absorb a few fashion tips after spending some time with Pam Mullaney at Dress. Raleigh. Thankfully, she blogs about them as well! Check out her post below, and prepare to kick off the holiday party season in style. 

 Read More

by Kristen Bagwell



For as long as I can remember, my mom, sisters and I have kicked off our holiday shopping at the Junior League of Raleigh’s “A Shopping SPREE!” This year is no exception, and we can’t wait! In fact, the Junior League has very graciously offered us TWO FREE PASSES to give away prior to the show. Get your shopping shoes on! (Read down to the bottom of this post for instructions on how to enter.)  Read More

By Rachel Hoeing

Today’s post is not only for new moms. Today we need a collaborative effort from all you veteran moms, too! New moms need help when it comes time to register for baby gear. I have compiled a list of the top items recommended from some of our readers. These are just suggestions, and we know that every family has different priorities, so please add your thoughts by commenting below and letting us know what baby items you loved and which ones were a flop. New items are constantly coming out, so if you recently registered, please share any new items with us that you added to your list. Here are our MUST HAVES: Read More

By Rachel Hoeing

When I try to come up with blog ideas, I always have so many random things that I want to share!  So today I took my latest sporadic list of ideas and put them all into one blog I am calling this my “show and tell.” These are just things that I like and thought other moms should know about! Read More

By Rachel Hoeing

When I want to treat my family to fun, unique clothes, I love mini Boden for my kids, and Boden for myself. It is quality clothing that truly lasts. It is high-end, so do not plan on getting a bargain, but definitely plan on a garment you will love ...  Read More

By Guest Blogger Barbie Pilla

A few months ago, www.AllModernBaby.com contacted us and asked if we could do a review of some of their products. Since most of their products are geared towards infants and toddlers (and our children are older than that), we asked loyal reader Barbie P (mother to a three-year-old and a seven-month-old) to seek out some fun items, try them out with her daughters, and write about her experiences. Here's what she had to say! - KM Read More

By Guest Blogger, Carolyn Flaherty

I am proud to introduce to you an amazing mom who has created a quality product and a quickly growing company, Debby Yennaco. In 2007, Debby Yennaco's 5 year old son, Aidan asked her how to spell the word "Bug". Quickly she created a design to show her son how to spell in a unique and creative manner. Shortly thereafter, Debby created her first Namimal creation by turning Aidan's name into a dinosaur. Debby loved her creation and Aidan LOVED it even more! Instantly, Debby knew she had a HUGE IDEA! lit'l desi9s has created over 3,000 names into a whole collection of inspired designs…Debby artfully arranges the letters of a child’s first or last name (even dog names) to create absolutely adorable animals, fairies, princesses, and automobile designs. In doing so, she captures the imagination and sparks the creativity of children and parents alike. Read More

By Rachel Hoeing

When your first friend finds out she’s pregnant, it creates a snowball effect. Before you know it, everyone is having babies, which also means everyone is having baby showers! Whether you are attending a shower for a first-time mom, a veteran mom, or a mom of an adopted child, you want your gift to be one that is not only appreciated, but remembered! Read More

By Guest Blogger, Cherie Brewer

I have so much to learn from our guest blogger, Cherie, pictured right with her family. You will quickly see why I have given her the title "Coupon Queen" when you read this post. I am amazed at these women who find such great bargains! Just last week at Harris Teeter and CVS, Cherie's total spent was $160 and her total saved was $300. So, she saved 65% on groceries that week. Wow! Plus, the food she bought lasts her family 2-3 weeks. She will only have to purchase milk, bread and a little produce. Cherie also claims to have spent $2 and saved $30 at CVS many times. As you can see, this new craze of couponing certainly pays off. Here are some great tips from Cherie! - Rachel H.
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