Sarah Graham is approaching her one-year anniversary as owner of Graham’s Upscale Liquidation. And what a year it’s been! In the space of twelve months, she sold her home, moved to Chelsea, opened her new business, and had surgery to repair a torn ACL. A lot of change in a short amount of time.
“Your first year is always the most challenging,” Graham said. “I have personally faced a lot of things that could have driven me off a cliff, but I’m a strong, faithful woman.”
In spite of it all, Graham persevered. Each week, she stocks the 5,000 square foot building with a continually evolving collection of furniture, home goods, clothing, health and beauty products, and seasonal items for savvy bargain-hunting shoppers. Graham understands her clientele, and has always felt the need to be frugal. It is what drove her to open Graham’s Upscale Liquidation in the summer of 2023.
“I realized that I liked finding a good bargain and a quality item,” Graham said. “As a single Mom, I’ve always been a budget savvy person myself. I wanted to provide a neighborhood friendly, community-driven budget store. A lot of people will call me a hometown TJ Maxx, or a little bit of Bougie on a Budget.”
New, not used
She sources from vendors that buy direct from places like Sam’s, Target, Home Depot, Lowe’s, Wayfair, and Amazon, finding items that the big box chain stores are not able to resell.
“In summer months, I get season-appropriate items like patio furniture, grills, smokers, hammocks, patio umbrellas, swim gear, swimsuits, swim towels. Naturally, that’s what consumers need and want,” Graham said.
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She is always refreshing and renewing the store, making the experience unique every time a shopper visits. Displays may highlight desks and chairs for college students, or high end furniture, rugs, lighting fixtures, or appliances for home buyers.
“We take the extra energy and effort to provide an organized environment that’s appealing,” Graham said. “It can be overwhelming for some people, so we encourage them to go around once, twice, three times if you can because something is going to pop.”
“People are always surprised when they walk in,” she said. “ A lot of people presume that my items are donations. I’m not Goodwill. These are not donations. These are items we’ve paid for, and they are brand new items that we’ve often put together.”
Support for other small business owners
While the majority of the inventory is liquidation, Graham also offers some consignment items to support local artisans. She frequently hosts food trucks and workshops to support other entrepreneurs. At past workshops, attendees have learned soap making, candle making, cookie frosting, felt making and French perfume making.
“I like being able to highlight other skilled artists,” she said.
“In this day and age, it’s a tight economy for all budgets. I feel that the appeal is that people are getting brand new inventory, and they’re getting a discount and a great bargain. My goal is to provide people with genuine customer service that makes them feel welcome, like a family member. It’s the appeal of a small town business, and realizing that it’s a surprise, too.”
Graham invites shoppers to visit the store at 6541 Jackson Avenue. On August 3, they will be hosting a Sale-a-bration with food trucks, vendors, and musicians.
“It’s the big red building just before Menard’s. Once you see it, you can’t unsee it.”
Get to know Sarah Graham:
Tell us about your family?
I’m a single mom to my amazing, beautiful daughter, Ava Grace (age 16). She is my pride and joy.
Where did you grow up?
Oakland County, born and raised.
What previous careers have you been involved in?
Automotive industry, working in many roles as a project planner.
Why choose thrift?
We need to restore and renew and repurpose a lot in our society. We have too much of a throwaway mentality.
Hobbies?
I absolutely love the outdoors. Kayaking, hiking and biking.
Favorite local restaurant?
Grateful Crow and Smokehouse 52 in Chelsea.
Beverage of choice?
Iced chai with almond milk. I also like a good Malbec (and music) at Ugly Dog.
Dream vacation?
Heidelberg, Germany
Advice for other mompreneurs?
Financially, be prepared to spend more than what’s expected. Realize that your first year or two or three is going to be the most challenging. Surround yourself with like minded people and form your tribe.
Inspirational quote or motto?
“Comparison is the thief of joy.” Eleanor Roosevelt.
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