Thryfter Thursday 10.19.2023
Hey there, Thryfters! In this week’s edition of Thryfter Thursday, we’re delighted to introduce you to the talented and passionate Angelina Bolanger, the creative force behind the thriving Instagram page @upcycledunitee. Join us as we dive into Angelina’s inspiring journey, exploring the roots of her business, her tenacity in the face of challenges, and the invaluable lessons she’s learned along the way.
Finding Passion in Thrift: A Humble Beginning
In the midst of a pandemic and her college years, Angelina discovered her love for thrifting. Seeing peers venture into the world of online clothing sales, she found her own inspiration. “I already loved thrifting,” she says, “so I went out and bought just 10 items and had my first drop.” With a handful of carefully curated pieces, Upcycled Unitee was born.
Consistency and Connection: Keys to Success
One of Angelina’s vital lessons for fellow business owners revolves around consistency. “Be consistent,” she advises, “your customers will love consistency as there will be something for them to count on.” Indeed, her dedication to regular posts and engaging content has created a loyal customer base, eagerly anticipating her updates.
Conquering Challenges and Cherishing Growth
Every business faces hurdles, and for Angelina, finding space for her growing inventory was a significant challenge. From utilizing a corner of her dorm room to dedicating an entire room in her house, her journey shows the importance of adaptation and appreciation for progress. “It makes me appreciate it a lot more knowing how it used to be,” she reflects.
Motivation from the Heart: Customers as Driving Force
For Angelina, the source of her motivation stems from her customers. Their enthusiasm, evident in their recurring bids and purchases, fuels her drive. “It makes me want to find new and cute stuff each week, knowing that I have people out there who will give it a great new life,” she shares.
The Power of Networking and Integrity
In the early days, Angelina strategically utilized shoutouts and networked with similar-sized accounts to boost her visibility. Yet, amidst her business strategies, she maintained a steadfast principle: “Never sell over retail. I do not think it is fair at all for thrifted clothes to be sold over their retail price.” This commitment to fairness and integrity has undoubtedly contributed to her loyal customer base.
Role Models and Triumphs: Drawing Inspiration
Scarlett Johansson serves as Angelina’s role model, embodying the spirit of creative evolution and pursuing one’s passions fearlessly. Angelina admires Scarlett’s transition from a successful film career to entrepreneurship, mirroring her own journey of transformation and growth.
Celebrating Milestones and Future Excitement
In a recent triumph, Angelina hit 7k followers, a testament to her hard work and the appeal of Upcycled Unitee. Looking forward, she teased an upcoming “Lover” collection, timed in honor of the recent Taylor Swift movie release. It’s bound to be a treat for her dedicated followers.
As we conclude this Thryfter Thursday feature, Angelina Bolanger’s story serves as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs. Her dedication, authenticity, and passion have not only transformed her love for thrifting into a thriving business but have also cultivated a community of fashion enthusiasts who appreciate the beauty of upcycled treasures.
Thank you for joining us on this exciting journey through Angelina’s story. Stay tuned for more Thryfter Thursday features, celebrating the creativity and determination of entrepreneurs like Angelina Bolanger!
