Once Upon a Child provides a fun and convenient way to buy and sell new and gently used kids stuff.
Frequently Asked Questions...
Where are you located?
Once Upon A Child - Traverse City is located one block north of Grand Traverse Mall on 31 between Red Lobster and the $5 Car Wash, across the street from the Kia dealership and Olive Garden.
Hours?
We are open Mon-Sat 10a-8p and on Sundays noon-5p. We are closed on holidays, which will always be posted on our facebook page.
What hours do you buy?
When we are open, we are buying. We buy all seasons, all day, every day, no appointment needed. If you bring items in close to closing, you may need to return the following morning for your quote.
Your store is so full, are you still buying?
We will NEVER stop buying!
Is there a limit on how much I can bring in?
No limits on how much you bring in.
How do I need to bring my items in?
All clothing must freshly laundered and laid flat in a box or bin. No bags, hangers, garage sale stickers, or safety pins.
How long does it take? What is the process?
It takes about 15 minutes to go through each tote. We buy based on condition, demand, style, and brand. Passing on anything with staining, signs of wear, missing tags, or items older than 5 years. We then enter the items we wish to purchase from you in to our computer system which generates a no obligation quote, which is paid in CA$H! You are not required to stay in the store while we sort through your items and we can send you a text when they are complete. However you must return within 48 hours of dropping the items off or we will donate your items.
What happens to the items you do not want?
We will place them back in your bin and send them home with you. There is a Women's Resource Center across the street for donations.
Can I sent you a picture of the item for you to give me a quote?
Unfortunately no. We must inspect all items in person prior to any offers being made.
Do you buy maternity?
We do not.
What sizes do you carry?
Kids Clothing Preemie-Youth 20
Shoes Infant-Youth 4
Books Early Chapter Books
Toys Younger than age 8, no stuffed animals
What is the payout for items?
We keep our prices cheap and cheerful at Once Upon with prices 50-80% off mall prices. And payouts averages out to be 30% of what we sell them for. With a higher percentage on larger/more expensive items.
Do you accept checks?
We do not, but we accept cash, MasterCard, Visa, Discover, American Express.
Do you accept returns?
We do, within 7 days with the receipt and tags attached. Refund will be in the same manner payment was made.
Do you accept other Once Upon's Customer Appreciation Cards?
We will honor other Once Upon Cards whether it be stamping or redeeming.
Do you have a rewards program?
We do! Next time you are shopping with us, lets get you signed up.
I am looking for a particular item, can you help?
Give us a call at the store and we will be happy to check for you. If it is a larger item we do have an Equipment Wish List.
Are you really locally owned?
Yes! I was born and raised in TC, graduated from West. Went to NMC for a year prior to graduating from CMU with a merchandising degree. This is why at our store we have high organization standards, which makes it so easy to shop:) Moved away for a bit... Working as a fashion buyer at a boutique, District Visual Director for Juicy Couture, and most recently 8 years with Macys as a Merchandise Manager, so lots of passion for retail. I was super excited about the opportunity to have my own store and the chance to come back to TC. I am back and loving it! Stop by and say hi!
Every Once Upon A Child is locally owned and operated, so please give us a call or text at the store at 231-642-5570. Thanks!
