Samantha K Schmidt

As the engagement season begins to come to a close you may still be waiting around for that perfect ring, or you may be gearing up for a new year to find love. Either way millions of girls around the world are dreaming of the perfect ring to mark a special bond between them and their one true love. Unfortunately, when thinking of the perfect engagement ring the same image pops into every girls mind. When I got engaged there was one thing I knew I didn't want... the same thing everyone else had. And let's face it the diamond is so overdone. It wasn't until the 1900's that diamonds became a popular gemstone among the general public. Previously, diamonds were only possessed by kings and queens (which probably increased their desirability). In the meantime, however, common people wore less rare gemstones made of brilliant colors and precious metals. When we think back on our grandmothers' jewelry collections we remember all of these beautiful colors and antique des...

Last week I gave you the basic guide to thrifting. This week we are going to talk about the best thrift store finds. What are the best items to look for when thrifting? Here are few things that you'll want to look for on your next excursion.

I am just full of tips and tricks lately. Just consider me the Samantha in your friend group. You know the older, more "experienced" friend. (I can't resist a good Sex and the City reference.) Today's tips are all about thrifting. I like to consider these the basics. If you've never thrifted before, this is the place to start.