You can’t help but notice the bright green house on Pioneer Way in Downtown Gig Harbor. Built in 1928, and still displaying its original interior, locals and visitors alike are drawn to its charm. The resident cat Romeo greets shoppers and consignors as they enter Sharon’s Resale Boutique, a Gig Harbor staple for more than two decades.
August 1 will mark the 23rd anniversary of the boutique, which has remained at the same location, 7620 Pioneer Way, since first opening its doors.
Gig Harbor resident and owner of Sharon’s Resale Boutique, Sharon Kresse, had been working as an engineer for a cable company for 17 years when the opportunity presented itself to purchase the business in 1997. As Sharon says, when the store became available, “it was the perfect time for a change.”
Since day one, Sharon has been providing women in the community a wonderful place to not only shop but to also consign their gently used items. Sharon’s is a resale boutique offering new and pre-loved clothing and accessories for women and teens below retail value. You will find all sizes and something for any occasion—from casual date night to prom or that black-tie event. Customers will also find designer handbags including Dooney, Coach and Louis Vuitton, among many other labels. And don’t forget the new Seahawks gear, home décor and gifts! As Sharon adds, “Items from the best closets to yours.”
She adds that many people don't realize that Sharon’s is a resale boutique because of the quality of the items they sell, only accepting items in like-new condition, many of which still have tags on them! “You have money in your closet,” Sharon says. “As a consignor, you receive 40 percent of the sale price, which you can use as store credit or receive a check. We take items in season, cleaned, pressed and on hangers. We realize everyone has a busy life, so no appointment is necessary unless you've done a major closet cleaning.”
Sharon finds great joy in owning her business, and the rewards are endless. “I have grown old with my customers and consignors,” she smiles. “One of my first consignors came in with her little girl; that little girl grew up and worked with me during high school and college. She is now married and has a little boy. Many have grown to be great family friends and stop in just to chat.”
At Sharon’s, they pride themselves in providing the very best in customer service whether you are a consignor or enjoying retail therapy. “I'm here because of my customers who enjoy shopping on a budget and the consignors who want to recycle,” affirms Sharon. “I would not be here without them.”
Sharon was born and raised in North Dakota as a farmer's daughter, and the military brought her to Washington state in the early ‘70s. She lived in Lakewood until 2002, when she moved to Gig Harbor. “I'm blessed to live in the heart of Downtown Gig Harbor,” says Sharon. “I enjoy all the community events and that the businesses want to work together to make you and them better.” She adds that the Downtown Waterfront Alliance is always available to help by hosting events such as Girls Night Out , Sip & Stroll, Halloween in the Harbor and many more.
When not in the shop, Sharon has volunteered as one of the downtown basket waterers and currently volunteers with Empty Bowls, sits on the committee for Girls Night Out and also heads the Judson Street Experience. In addition, Sharon gives back through clothing donations to Purdy Prison. “Last year we dressed 648 women leaving the facility,” she says. “I am happy to help wherever I can.” Sharon’s Resale Boutique is also a Little Free Library stop: Take a book, leave a book.
As summer makes its debut later this month, now’s the time to clear out that closet and consign, and shop for something new—and Sharon’s Resale Boutique is just the place to do both! Visit Sharon's Resale Boutique on Facebook and Instagram.
Sharon’s Resale Boutique 7620 Pioneer Way Gig Harbor, Washington 98335 253.851.3550 SharonsResaleBoutique.com