Growing Tree Children’s Consignment Boutique

There is a saying that finding your passion will lead you to your purpose. For Molly Knight, her passion for consignment has helped fill a niche in the Hoover community.

Twelve years ago, the Hoover resident started Bargains on the Bluff, a children’s and women’s consignment sale at Bluff Park United Methodist Church, which has seen significant growth over the years. 

After that experience, Knight had an itch for something more. She began researching consignment more in depth and when a location opened in Lake Crest Plaza, Knight jumped at the chance to open her own store.

“I love, love consignment and just knew I wanted to take it on full time,” Knight said.

As early as this past April, people brought in items to consign. Growing Tree Children’s Consignment Boutique had a soft opening in June and an official grand opening in July, complete with appearances by the Hoover Belles and a fashion show. 

Word spread quickly, and Knight realized she had found her calling.

“I have been overwhelmed with the response,” Knight said. “This side of Hoover didn’t have something like this. When people are having a hard time during this economy, this is such a great way to save.”

Guidelines for interested consigners as well as information on what brands the stores carries can be found on the store’s website. The store accepts a maximum of 40 items every three weeks from each consignor.

“The great thing is that people can come in here and consign and get store credit for their items,” Knight said.

The store’s decorations reflect Knight’s personality, and there is a special play area for children. The most significant piece of the décor is the elaborate “Growing Tree” on the wall that Knight made herself.

Having a teenager of her own, Knight understands the importance of offering consignment items to the older age group. That is why in addition to children’s clothes, the store offers preteen clothing for boys and girls. 

Witnessing customers’ reactions to items they have found is one of her favorite parts about being in the business.

“I love seeing the look on someone’s face when they’ve found that perfect outfit,” Knight said.

In addition to clothes, the store showcases crafts made by local mothers, including picture frames, baby bottles, shoes, stuffed animals and other accessories such as custom jewelry. This fall, from Alabama and Auburn tailgating outfits to Halloween costumes, Growing Tree is a one-stop shop for outfitting children for any occasion. Knight offers monogramming for an extra personal touch.

 “I am doing this for my family, yes, but I am also doing this as a ministry for the community,” Knight said. “This has been my dream for a long time.”