07/22/2026
Unfortunately, this is exactly why we don't accept checks as a form of payment.
A customer came in today and shopped like normal. She picked out several items, setting them on the counter, then continuing to browse for another 15 minutes. She came back with arm loads and said she was ready to check out.
As I made friendly conversation, she was just as friendly in return. Then, just as I started ringing everything up, she asked if we accepted checks.
I hesitated. I always try to give people the benefit of the doubt, but I kindly declined and explained that we only accept cash or card. She told me her debit card was coming in the mail and that she would run to the bank and be right back with cash. I smiled, said, "No problem! I'll keep everything right here on the counter for you."
Three hours later...she never came back. That left me putting every item back on its hanger and returning it to the sale floor.
It's unfortunate that this happens in a small town like Gladwin. Whether she was local or not, situations like this are exactly why policies have to exist. My system is capable of accepting checks, and there are certainly people I would trust to write one. But it only takes one person abusing that trust to ruin it for everyone else.
Some days, being a small business owner is hard. As a consignment shop, these aren't even my personal items. They belong to people in our community who trust me to help sell them. I don't take that responsibility lightly, and I'm incredibly grateful for every consignor who places that trust in me.
Today, I'm thanking the Lord for discernment. Had I accepted a bad check, not only would my business have lost money, but so would the consignors who entrusted me with their items.
Thank you to everyone who understands that our policies aren't meant to inconvenience anyone. They’re there to protect our small business and the people who make it possible.