Shop Talk The consignor newsleer of the Woman’s Exchange March 2017 She’s the furniture goddess Linda Ploger says, “I’ve been selling things since the first time they handed me a box of Girl Scout cookies.” And now she’s selling at least 30-35 pieces of furniture a day at the Woman’s Exchange. Linda and her husband Dan have owned a condo on Siesta Key for 22 years – bought from his grandparents – and ten years ago moved here full-time. It was about six years ago that Linda came to the Exchange to consign some linens. She became frustrated when there wasn’t enough help, so began volunteering in the intake department. Four months later she was hired on full-time to manage the furniture department. A native of Tennessee – no surprise to anyone who’s heard her talk – Linda owned three ladies’ boutiques called All That Jazz. Two were in Tennessee and one in Alabama. She and her husband of 23 years also owned a 260-acre farm so, after selling her stores, she became a “lady farmer” while also helping stores with their merchandising and window decoration and staging people’s homes. Her own home seems to be in a constant state of redecoration as she finds treasures at the Exchange, garage sales and other consignment shops. As the “new” moves in, the old often ends up being consigned at the Exchange. Linda has two married stepsons, one in Sarasota and one in St. Pete, along with three grandchildren - Lillian, 4 years old, Lyla, 3 years old, and Olivia is almost 2 years old. She can’t wait to take all the girls shopping! Despite what is often a stressful job – such as when people are demanding to know prices when furniture is barely off the truck – Linda says there’s also the laughter and the joy of helping people, whether they’re getting rid of furniture or looking for a special piece. She says, “I love my job!” Linda Ploger furniture sales manager Women’s clothing, accessories and linens: Consignment will be Wednesdays, March 1, 15 and 22 for clothing and accessories such as purses, shoes, belts. Linens will be accepted the second Wednesday, March 8. Miscellaneous: Tuesdays and Fridays, March 3, 7, 10, 14, 17, 21, 24, 28, 31. Mirrors and artwork on Tuesdays. Furniture: Accepted by appointment. Photos of furniture to be considered may be e-mailed to [email protected] (Include phone number) or brought in Mon.-Fri. between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. All large outdoor/garden items are handled through the furniture department. Only a limited number of oversized items due to space constraints. Fine Jewelry: Accepted by appointment, 955-7859. Art: Appointments are no longer necessary for art work. Bring in on Tuesdays only. Consignments expire on the 60th calendar day (includ- ing weekends and holidays). Items can be reclaimed Monday-Friday only; the business office is closed on Saturdays. Hours for pick-up are 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Items not reclaimed before the last ticket date and price are considered a donation to the Woman’s Exchange. Checks will only be issued for more than $10. The lesser money will be accrued for the next check. Call the 24-hour Hotline to hear what & how many items are being accepted for the week: 941-364-3858, Press 1. Hours for clothing and miscellaneous are 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Hours are firm. CONSIGNING IN MARCH