The Queen’s Closet
22 Oriskany Blvd, Yorkville
Kaila Champoux
“Don’t pay full price for anything.”
It’s a motto that Mary Gearheart has lived by since she was 13 years old. Perhaps it was this philosophy that inspired her to return to her hometown in the Mohawk Valley, where she opened The Queen’s Closet on June 1, 1998.
For 28 years, this upscale consignment shop has offered customers an ever-changing selection of womenswear, menswear, shoes, jewelry, accessories, furniture, decor, and household items at heavily discounted prices. The Queen’s Closet is “resale not retail,” emphasizing what today’s shoppers are looking for: stylish, quality finds without the markup.
Because this is consignment at its finest, Mary parses through each item individually. If she is unsure of an item’s value, she consults her trusted professional contacts, including antique dealers and jewelers, to ensure fair pricing for both consignors and customers.
Mary’s best consignors bring in freshly laundered, wear-ready items on hangers. Consignors earn a 40% profit for every day items sold under $100. For items priced over $100, the split is 60/40 in the consignor’s favor. For higher end pieces, jewelry, furniture, or collections, a smaller percentage is taken and discussed on an individual basis. After 60 days, items go to a $3.00 clearance section which is on constant rotation.
“I’m always surprised at what comes in and what goes out!” Mary says.
Mary has made many nice friendships over the years and has regular customers. Some are now second generation shoppers: children who shopped with their mothers are now adults taking their mothers for a day out.
She especially enjoys playing matchmaker between customers and their interests, often calling shoppers personally when something unique arrives in the shop that suits their taste.
Mary is the first to say that it takes a village. She has been blessed with the support of family, friends, employees, and customers who have contributed to the success of the business. The spirit of community extends beyond the shop’s walls, too. Items that do not sell after 60 days are donated to Mother Marianne’s West Side Kitchen, where she serves on the board, and are distributed free of charge to those in need.
In an era of fast-fashion, consignment shops like The Queen’s Closet offer something increasingly rare: a personal touch, quality items, and the thrill of discovering something unexpected. Nearly three decades later, Mary’s philosophy remains unchanged: you never have to pay full price for something valuable.
Grab your favorite shopping buddy and pop into Mary’s shop where you’ll find items fit for a Queen.
Fun Fact:
Rocky the pug comes to work with Mary every day. Though he has been known to sleep on the job, he will happily wake to greet customers.
Most Memorable Item That Came Through The Doors:
- 18 large stained glass windows
- Large unique pieces of fine jewelry
Consignment Acceptance Times:
By appointment only, please call 315-736-9160.
What We Are Looking For:
“If I think it will sell, I’ll take it!” says Mary.
Hours:
Monday – Friday 11 a.m.–5 p.m. (summer through early fall)
Additional Information:
Follow The Queen’s Closet & Attic Addicts on Facebook for estate sales, household liquidations, featured items in-store, and more.
Mary is looking for the next person to take over The Queen’s Closet, including Attic Addicts, which is the estate sale side of the business. The new owner will have the unique opportunity to build on this thriving business with a loyal customer base. Those interested in this turn-key opportunity should reach out to Mary directly. She looks forward to teaching the next owner the tricks of the trade.
