I’ve spent the past few weekends browsing at garage sales, but the one I really want to go to is in a neighborhood of Boston. There, they are holding the annual “everything is free” sale where multiple families assemble their goods for others to take. It’s their post-purging outcome, but instead of hauling their no-longer-wanted items to a donation center or attempting to sell clothes their kids have outgrown, these families have one goal in mind: get rid of the stuff. I think it’s brilliant.
At garage sales, there are two types of sellers — one hosting the event in an attempt to make money, and another whose aim is to clear their house of the possessions. The latter will have low prices, eagerly negotiate, and throw in additional items for free. The families in Boston have taken it one step further and started out with a platform that encourages people to load up, leaving them with little to nothing at the end.
Whether at a garage sale or a more serious pursuit, think about your ultimate aim before you begin, then design your work with that in mind. “Everything is free” might be just the model you need to spread your ideas broadly, to attract a new audience, or to rid yourself of old possessions.
Thanks, Meg!
