Bearly Used

     Families on a budget at Smith Mountain Lake have discovered Bearly Used Children’s Store. From clothes to cribs and blankets to books, the store offers a large selection of consignment items at bargain prices.
     Anne Tones started the business five years ago in Bedford, then moved to Village Square for two years before settling in at her current location on Rt. 122 across from Village Square. Tones was looking for a flexible job that would allow her to bring her two daughters – then ages 3 and 5 – to the office with her.
     “Of course, I wanted something that would work in this area year-round,” she said. “And I thought there was definitely a need for it. I’m busiest in the summer, but the winter months are OK, too. I’ve grown every year.”
     Tones started with 60 active consignment customers. She now manages 425.
     “I’m turning people away because the store is packed,” Tones said. “And I don’t want to get any bigger.”
     The store has new and used children’s items, including bottles, bouncy seats, strollers, car seats, infant carriers, exersaucers, swings, travel items, diaper bags, bath essentials, toys, videos, safety items and toddler beds. Among the hottest items, Tones said, are cribs, high chairs and pack-and-plays.
     “Grandparents buy those for their kids to keep at the lake,” she said. “They’re the best customers because they’re usually not on a budget.”
     About half of the store is dedicated to clothing, which ranges from infant sizes up to size 16-18 for boys and junior sizes for girls. Shoes, accessories and maternity clothes are also available.
     Bearly Used is open Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Thursday 10-7 and Saturday 10-3. For more information, contact Anne Tones at 297-2686.