Kid to Kid
Donna Gylling was a regular customer of resale stores and frequently visited the Kid to Kid store in Fort Worth.
She and her husband had been looking for the right business to invest in when she realized the resale concept could work in her Woodlands-area neighborhood.
"My best friend used to live down the street from the store [in Fort Worth]," Gylling said. "Whenever I used to go visit her, I would stop by and shop."
Gylling said she was encouraged by one of the store's employees to open a franchise of her own.
Hair bows in various colors and styles are a popular item at The Woodlands resale store.[/caption]
Prior to opening Kid to Kid, Gylling worked as a teacher, an assistant principal, an attorney and for an adoption agency, but she did not have retail experience. However, Gylling said research led her to conclude the Kid to Kid franchise seemed like the right concept for The Woodlands at the right time.
Her research paid off as her store celebrated its 10th anniversary in February.
Kid to Kid allows families to bring in clothing or toys that their children have outgrown for cash or store credit. The items are then resold at discounted prices.
"So [the concept is] a way to recycle," Gylling said. "It's also a great way for other families to enjoy things that other children have enjoyed, and it's a great way to save money."
The store carries children's clothing from infant through age 14, shoes, coats, Halloween costumes, Western wear, Christian clothing, maternity clothing and baby equipment, such as strollers, bouncers and toys.
Gylling said Kid to Kid operates differently from a thrift store, which tends to have a more liberal merchandise acceptancy policy.
"We are more selective with our merchandise," she said. "We try to make sure that our clothes are no more than three years old. We try to stay stylish."
Kid to Kid is open seven days a week and buys inventory for every season all year long.
"We put out new items every day," Gylling said. "Inventory is fresh every time you come into our store."
The concept has been so well-received that the store underwent remodeling a year ago to add more racks for inventory.
"[The store is] a great concept for families with grown kids," Gylling said. "It's a great way to get back a little of their investment."
Although the shop carries new items, including a popular line of hair bows, there is also a large section of dance wear for young dancers. Leotards, tap shoes and ballet shoes are all available dress-up items for kids.
"We look at almost everything that kids use with few exceptions," Gylling said. "It can be anything from play clothing to boutique items."
Although owning a business has proven to be a significant commitment for Gylling, she said she has been fortunate to enjoy some success and to have support from the local community.
"The thing that made me nervous the most was how the concept would be accepted in the Woodlands, and if we were going to have enough amazing product to buy and sell," she said. "The answer to both questions was yes."
Gylling said she believes in giving back to the community. The store donates to elementary schools in the region every year.
Kid to Kid
6777 Woodlands Parkway, The Woodlands , 281-419-3339, www.kidtokid.com/thewoodlands
Hours: Mon.-Fri. 9 a.m.-7 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. noon-5 p.m.