One of the best ways to recoup some of the money spent on your big day is by selling wedding “stuff” afterwards! We know that some newlyweds have a sentimental attachment to anything and everything used at their wedding, but anything that is leftover or reusable items could be sold as a way of getting some of your cash back. If you don’t plan on displaying it, preserving it, using it again, or memorializing it in some way, selling it (or even better, donating it!) is much better than having these items sit in your basement or attic collecting dust. Sites like Facebook, Craigslist, and Ebay are obvious choices for offloading some of your goods, but you can also try The Knot’s Classifieds. If you DIY’d a lot of pieces, you could even try opening your own Etsy shop! Regardless of what platform you choose, here are our six best tips for helping your leftovers find a new home!
Don’t expect to get what you paid.
This post opened with “recoup some of the money spent,” not all of it. If you are anticipating getting what you paid for an item, you’ll likely be disappointed. Those who shop for gently used wedding goods are doing so for a reason – they are looking for a bargain. So don’t ask for the retail price. With that being said, do list an item a bit higher than your bottom line price, in anticipation that potential buyers will try to haggle.
Use quality photos.
Buyers like to see the item in action. Rather than uploading a poor image you took with your iPhone, why not use some of the details shots from your wedding photographer? It will give potential buyers a better idea of how that item will look on their big day.
Be honest.
Divulge information. If there is a stain on the linens, say so. Don’t try to trick people into buying damaged goods. Not cool.
Package well.
If an item is fragile, use lots and lots of bubble wrap, newspaper, or anything that provides a cushion. You do not want to deal with a refund if your items arrive in a thousand pieces.
Don’t underestimate shipping fees.
Familiarize yourself with shipping prices and procedures. It is completely ok to ask the buyer to pay for shipping, but most sites ask that you list an estimated shipping cost. If you underestimate, you’ll likely be left to eat the difference.So do your shipping homework first!
List almost anything.
You’d be surprised at what people will buy, as long as it’s reusable or in good condition. List questionable items anyways, even if you don’t think anyone would buy it. You never know what people are on the prowl for.
Bonus Tip!
Put the money you earn toward something fun, like a second honeymoon or an anniversary photo session!
