Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Prada: These are just a few names owner Brett Wisman is proud to drop when it comes to brands available in his store, Consign and Design. The consignment store opened Sept. 10 and sells everything from home furnishings to designer purses.
“I felt Columbia needed a high-end consignment shop,” Wisman says. “I think it brings an outlet where people don’t have to go to the big city to get certain things … I don’t think there’s anywhere else in town you can purchase a Louis Vuitton purse.”
Though the store aims for more sophisticated brands, bargain hunters thrive thanks to Consign and Design’s lower prices.
Everything in the shop is gently used, though some of their clothing hasn’t been worn once. Consign and Design does try to keep their pieces a little more high-end, so you won’t find any Walmart or Target garments while searching the racks. Some items the store has reeled in include True Religion jeans, Michael Kors purses and more.
“It was very easy for me to consign (with) them,” consigner Kristal Allen says over the phone. “I did very well in the first week. They’re selling my belongings, which is great for both of us. I think that we’ve needed a store like (Consign and Design) for quite some time.”
Consign and Design plans to standout from the feel of other consignment stores in town by contrasting with the common vintage vibe. By selling various items from several different sources, the store strives to have something for everybody.
“It brings an old idea around again with a fresh new spin on it,” sales associate Marty Newman says.
Wisman has worked in retail all his life and has worked in the consignment business for a couple years. Consign and Design is the first store he can call his own.
“I wanted something to feel young,” Wisman says. “You have some antiques, and you have some cool stuff; I just want a little bit of everything. It’s not just my tastes that I’m selling, it’s everybody else who’s bringing stuff in.”