Our Story:
Thrifty Finds began as a quiet idea in a modest attic, where we gathered each weekend to sort through boxes of gently‑worn garments and forgotten home treasures. Our shared belief was simple yet powerful: everyday objects deserve a second life, and the choices we make about what we bring into our homes shape the planet’s future.
The story begins with a common experience: witnessing the staggering amount of waste generated by conventional retail. Like other entrepreneurs in the sustainable space who were dismayed by how much perfectly usable material was destined for the dumpster, The founder of Thrifty Finds saw a disconnect. On one hand, there was a mountain of items—clothing with a minor flaw, furniture with a small scratch, housewares deemed “out of season”—being thrown away. On the other hand, there were families and individuals right here in our community facing financial stress, unable to afford the quality goods they needed and deserved.
This was the point of friction, the problem that demanded a solution. It was the frustration of seeing value being treated as trash. It was the realization that the linear “take-make-dispose” model of consumption was failing both our planet and our neighbors. The decision to act was not just a business opportunity; it was a response to a clear and present need. Thrifty Finds was born from this decision: to create a bridge between the items that had life left to live and the people who could give them a loving home. Ever since that day, the mission has been to build more than a store. The goal is to build a cycle of renewal, where items are given a second chance, families are given a helping hand, and our community is strengthened by a more conscious, caring way of living.
Our Core Values:
Two core values guide every decision and action at Thrifty Finds. These principles are the bedrock of our brand’s identity and its promise to our community.
1. Sustainability: We believe in the power of the circular economy to heal our planet. We are committed to reducing landfill waste by repairing, cleaning, and finding new homes for pre-loved items. Our work is a direct challenge to the disposable culture of fast fashion and a vote for a more sustainable future.
2. Dignity: We believe everyone deserves access to quality goods at a fair price. We treat every item we receive and every customer we serve with respect, curating our collection to ensure that what we offer is not just affordable, but also clean, functional, and worthy of a second life.
Our Mission Statement:
The mission of Thrifty Finds is: To provide our community with access to affordable, high-quality, pre-loved goods, fostering a culture of sustainability and giving every item a second chance to become a treasure.
Our Vision Statement:
The vision of Thrifty Finds is: A thriving Rhea County where the cycle of waste is broken, every family has the resources to build a comfortable home, and our community is a model of conscious consumption and mutual support.
More Than Things: The Stories Our Items Tell
What truly distinguishes a thrift store from a conventional retailer is the history embedded in its inventory. Each item on the shelves of Thrifty Finds has a past—a story of its previous life. This narrative element is a powerful differentiator, tapping into the deep-seated psychological desire for connection, nostalgia, and authenticity.
Our brand’s messaging will consistently emphasize that “Every item has a story”. A vintage dress wasn’t just manufactured; it danced at weddings and holiday parties. An old wooden chair wasn’t just assembled; it was the site of bedtime stories and family dinners. A set of mismatched plates tells the story of a home slowly and lovingly built over time. Our perspective hopes to transform the shopping experience from a simple transaction into an act of discovery and adoption. Customers are not just buying a “used” object; they are becoming the next chapter in its ongoing story.