Wilmington, NC -- Trying to make a difference in your community by "going green" often means having to sacrifice time and money in an economic climate where may people have neither.  Recycled products, organic produce, chemical-free cleaners all can cost twice the money and are offered at half the stores.  Fortunately, there are many more innovative alternatives out there to meet your eco-conscious needs.  For instance, buying used furniture and goods is a perfect way to make a green choice that is also budget friendly.  The intense popularity of websites like Craigslist and Wilmington Yard Sales is an indication that the hunt for gently used items is on in a very big way.  There’s something thrilling about searching for that perfect dresser, being the first to contact the seller, and eventually winning the item for a brag-worthy price.  Recycling local goods in this way means not only sparing the landfill more bulk, but ensures the piece not been produced with valuable natural resources that would omit harmful off-gasses into your home.

Another little known secret for you eco-savvy thrill seekers is the good old-fashioned auction.  The ones you have seen in movies and TV shows, with the lure of the fast talking auctioneer, the possibility for incredible finds, the rush of winning that treasure actually happens right here in Wilmington.  Consumers who desire less crowds, less money and resources wasted on shipping new internet items and more variety and fun infused into holiday shopping will find a home at auctions.  Add to this the possibility of scoring a unique holiday gift, and Black Friday is sure to look different this year.

Locally owned and operated Auction Orange offers an opportunity to turn your post Thanksgiving frenzy (or avoidance of said frenzy) into an enjoyable, green, and unique way to spend the day.  At 10am on November 27th, hundreds of antique and vintage pieces will parade across the auction block and sell to the highest bidder.  Attendees are not obligated to purchase anything, and are invited to stay for as long as the fun continues.  It's a shopping experience like no other as every gift comes with a history. 

This holiday season, if you want to go easier on the wallet and on the planet and take in some entertainment at the same time, call some friends, form a carpool, and spend an evening at a local auction.  Its a lot more fun than the mall.