Today we’d like to introduce you to Christy Johnson.
Christy, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
The Attic Door Consignment Boutique opened its doors in May of 1999 with a mother-in-law and daughter-in-law team. Jean Reilly had owned a women’s consignment shop while living in Connecticut and Christy Johnson was living in Illinois, raising a family and attending school for Interior Design. Talk began over the miles of opening a unique, upscale consignment shop featuring women’s clothing, accessories, jewelry as well as home decor and furniture. After many months of planning and a move for Jean, The Attic Door Consignment Boutique opened with only family and friends items in the shop and a sign welcoming any new consignors as well as customers to come and join us in our new adventure.
Over 18 years we have seen many changes including Jean’s retirement in 2011, watching kids grow up, weddings, births, saying goodbye to old friends and welcoming new ones. We have an amazing staff made up of all ages of talented women that include our own jewelry designer and interior design specialist.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
We have been very fortunate to have met some wonderful people on this journey. Our only sadness has been losing some long-time customers who had become friends to us.
We have had ebbs and flows like any retail business, but consignment has become very popular as well as practical. Our customers are well educated and know that getting a bargain is always in style.
The Attic Door Consignment Boutique – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
The Attic Door Consignment Boutique selects only the best when it comes to gently worn women’s clothing and accessories as well as one of a kind unique home items for our clients.
Among many compliments that we have received over the years, the most common is “you have such wonderful displays”. Customers are always asking “who does your displays”? My answer is usually, “we all do”! As the owner, I received a degree in Fashion Merchandising from The International Academy of Merchandising and Design in Chicago and was attending school for Interior Design when we opened the store. With this background I have been able to mentor my employees to learn all aspects of design.
What moment in your career do you look back most fondly on?
I think just being able to stay open for 18 years in an ever changing economy is an accomplishment.
Contact Info:
- Address: 17424 S. Oak Park Avenue
Tinley Park, IL. 60477 - Website: www.theatticdoor.com
- Phone: 708-532-7226
- Email: theatticdoor@hotmail.com
- Instagram: @the_attic_door_consignment
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/TADtinleypark
- Other: www.pinterest.com/TADtinleypark
Getting in touch: VoyageChicago is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
Carolyn
July 6, 2017 at 1:26 pm
Christy is not only a successful business person but a wonderful person to knowcar
Barbara Blostica
July 6, 2017 at 9:20 pm
This is my all time favorite store. I walk thru the door and I immediately sense a feeling of tranquility! It must be the lovely environment and/or the pleasantly helpful staff. I have purchased many designer clothing pieces and homegoods.there! The shop is set up in a way that combines some home items, along with name brand clothing. It’s totally charming. And the prices are very reasonably priced! I have also consigned with The Attic Door, with great response. I look forward to every visit and miss it terribly when we are in Florida. I have checked out many resale /consignment shops, none of which hold a candle to The Attic Foor!
Barbara Blostica
July 6, 2017 at 10:18 pm
I don’t like this store, I LOVE IT!
The moment I walk in I sense beauty, peace and harmony! I don’t know if it’s the lovely store layout or helpful employees —probably both! There are beautiful, very organized, displays of designer clothing, homegoods, jewelry, purses, homegoods—And so much more. I love just wandering through the store and admiring all the gorgeous items at great prices! All items are in perfect condition.
I have purchased many pieces of clothing and household items
there. I have also consigned there with great results. What makes this store so special is that you don’t have one buyer there, but probably 100’s of different tastes and styles. I have also consigned with The Perfect Attic with fabulous results! Drop in for an unforgettable experience!
Carol Kappel
August 7, 2017 at 5:15 pm
Absolutely love your store, I can always find a treasure there.