Environmental responsibility and high-end designer fashion are typically not topics put together, but at Amanda Jane “AJ” Setaro’s consignment shop, Sweet Jane’s Designer Consignment, customers can purchase celebrity-worthy styles while focusing on slow fashion, a movement encouraging sustainable practices and fair wages while reducing waste.
Setaro says opening her own small business took every ounce of courage she had, and this bravery was put to the test during the coronavirus lockdowns. Through a virtual sidewalk shopping platform and concierge service for consignment pick-ups, Setaro transformed her whole business model in the span of a few months. Setaro considers withstanding the pandemic’s business impact to be one of her greatest accomplishments. This comes on top of donating about $29,000 in merchandise to community needs, while providing monetary donations between $1,000 and $10,000 to more than a half dozen Central Mass. organizations, particularly Andy’s Attic. Last year alone, Setaro donated 7,881 pieces of clothing for families in need.
What world record would you like to have? Is there a record to save the most cats? I would like to have that! During the quarantine I rescued nine kittens. I kept three (Zombie, Coyote, and Greta) but I would rescue every day if I could!!
What did you learn from the coronavirus pandemic? Do not be afraid of change. And even if you are, do it afraid.
What one Central Mass. activity should everyone try? SmashIt2 in Worcester! It’s especially worthy of a visit after a good break up. But also, Spider Gates Cemetery in Leicester is a rite of passage.
