Reuse Organization Profiles

Mannequin Madness

Overview

Mannequin Madness accepts, rents, and sells new and used (even damaged) mannequins.

History

Judi Henderson's unique business began when she noticed an advertisement of a mannequin for sale and considered purchasing one for a garden art project. Upon visiting the seller, she was overwhelmed to see his collection of over 50 mannequins. The seller informed her that as a former window dresser, his hobby of collecting mannequins had evolved into a mannequin rental business. When he mentioned that he was moving and closing the business, Henderson knew that with her prior job experiences and Internet marketing skills she developed at a dot-com, she could make this business work. Henderson decided to purchase the entire inventory and started Mannequin Madness.

Operations

Henderson operates the business on a full-time basis with assistance from her boyfriend, Jay Townsend. When they were only renting mannequins, business was slow. However, once they began selling mannequins they purchased from department stores, their revenues increased five-fold and they attracted a loyal following of buyers who appreciated their bargain prices and central location.

The basement of Henderson's home, a 1908 former Panamanian consulate, serves as a "mannequin showroom." While this keeps their overhead low, she admits customers sometimes feel a bit uncomfortable when they first enter the basement and see so many sets of eye peering at them—not to mention the fact that some of the mannequins are headless!

Mannequin Madness hires many independent contractors--haulers, carpenters, graphic designers, bookkeepers, etc.--to assist in its operations. They do all of their own packing, as their client demand requires out-of-state shipments, causing their shipping costs to be quite expensive. Townsend is the President of Shipping Operations at Mannequin Madness.

Materials Accepted

New and used (even damaged) mannequins, and styrofoam peanuts.

Source of Materials

Large and small retail outlets, department stores, individuals, etc.

Collection Service

Will pickup mannequins and styrofoam peanuts in Oakland, Berkeley, and San Francisco. Call for details.

Geographic Service Area

Call for details.

Drop-Off Hours

Call for an appointment.

Days/Hours of Operation

Clients are seen by appointment only, but the hours are flexible--appointments may be made for weekends, weeknights, as well as during normal business hours.

Contact Information

Judi Henderson, Owner
430 Orange Street, Suite B
Oakland, California 94610
County: Alameda
Phone: (510) 444-0650
Email: judi@mannequinmadness.com
Website:www.mannequinmadness.com/

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