There's absolutely no reason to spend a load of cash on trashy, mass-produced, big-box fright night costumes when your hard earned dollars could be put to better use during these tough economic times.
Here in Southern Sonoma County we are spoiled for choice with alternative options to the bland array of packaged nun's habits and ghostly get-ups stashed on superstore shelves at astronomical prices.
Head to historic downtown Petaluma to value shop all sorts of great stuff for pulling together original and inexpensive Halloween outfits for everyone in the family.
Over the years I have gathered together so many quirky costume pieces that I've filled a large, plastic tub, stashed it in the garage and built up a reputation amongst friends and neighbors as the go-to girl for random hats and wigs, belts, buckles, bodices. And when my boys grew too tall for some of the sweet, little skeleton outfits and Robin Hood get-ups, I simply scooped up the spoils and donated them right back to Alphabet Soup, my benefit, boutique thrift store of choice.
Not only can you find a wide range of accessories and specially pre-selected costumes at Alphabet Soup (213 Western Avenue), this October, you can donate all of your family's out-grown or no longer worn, gently-used clothing, footwear, hats and accessories, with all profits from sales going to city-wide schools through Petaluma Educational Foundation programs.
Thinking of revamping your home in time for the 2010 holiday season? Donations of furniture and large household items such as lamps and framed art bring the bigger bucks in for local schools. Don't hesitate to call Alphabet Soup Manager Mary Shaw (pictured top center) at the store if you have something on the larger side that you'd like to donate: 707 776 4620.
On Facebook? Alphabet Soup has a new Facebook Page and would appreciate you taking a few minutes to give Petaluma citywide schools' fundraising retail team a thumbs up.
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