Double the Bargains

The semi-annual sale hosted by Tulsa Mothers of Multiples will be held Saturday, September 10 and is open to the public.

What’s better than finding a great bargain? It’s finding double the bargains at the semi-annual Tulsa Mothers of Multiples (TMOMs) sale on Saturday, September 10. Even better, their new location at Open Bible Fellowship, 1439 E. 71st St., more than doubles the space from past sales.
    Long before doors open at 7 a.m., serious shoppers will line up with laundry baskets, rolling luggage or shopping carts, soon to be filled with just about anything imaginable for infants, ­toddlers and children – most of their purchases in pairs.             
    Although the emphasis is on little ones, there are lots of items for anyone to enjoy, including clothing for adults and maternity wear, household items, home décor, bedding, furniture, small appliances, electronics, DVDs, CDs, books, toys, games, sporting goods and more.
    A sneak preview of the fall/winter sale included snowsuits, boots, and clever, handmade Halloween costumes. All merchandise will be displayed in one huge, open area.
    Publicity Chair Natalie Woody says that what makes this sale so unique is the fact that there are two and sometimes three of nearly everything for children. That means strollers, cribs, baby monitors, car seats and more can be found in gently-used condition at low prices, starting at $1. “In this economy, who wouldn’t appreciate expensive brand name items at garage sale prices?” asks Natalie.
    Each sale brings big ­surprises, and this one will be no exception. Nearly 100 members will consign merchandise that has been carefully inspected before presentation. Clothing is clean, in season, in good ­condition and arranged by size on hangers.  
    Checking out will be quicker and easier than ever with ­electronic tagging. “For the first time, we’ll be scanning each item just like in a retail store,” says Natalie. “But the prices will be as much as 90 percent less.” The new electronic system promises lots of enhancements for future sales, but can only process cash transactions for its introductory event.
    Also for the first time, ­vendors will be on hand with snacks and fun things for kids to do while parents shop, such as play on a Jupiter Jump from Bounce Pro Rentals. Natalie adds that all their progress would not have been possible without the help of their sponsors, Jason Westmeir Chiropractic and Don Harris Photography.
    The TMOMs annual sale began soon after the 10-member club was chartered in 1982, as part of the National Organization of Mothers of Twins Clubs (NOMOTC). A few items were offered in a ­member’s garage. Now TMOMs is 150 members strong, making it the largest Oklahoma chapter. And the twice-a-year seasonal sale has grown to become one of the biggest shopping events in the state.
    The organization provides education and support for ­mothers of multiples through positive volunteer activities, ­community involvement and individual friendships. Membership is open not just to mothers and expectant mothers, but to parents and grandparents of multiples. Meetings are once a month. But someone is always available with a helping hand or a word of advice based on experience with the same challenges.
    TMOMs recently sent restaurant gift cards to a mother who was out of town with a hospitalized child. They also provide a Christmas meal and gifts for needy families in the area and participate in programs for the March of Dimes, St. Jude Children’s Hospital, and the Laura Dester Shelter. Part of the sale’s proceeds help TMOMs further their outreach efforts while they continue to take care of each other.
    The TMOMs fall/winter sale on September 10 is from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 1439 E. 71st Street. That’s the former Walmart building behind QuikTrip at 71st and Riverside. There is no admission charge, but canned goods for a local food pantry will be welcome. Cash only, please.

For more information, contact

Tulsa Mothers of Multiples

(918) 639-6534