By Mattie Hurt
Staff Writer

Snob Shop celebrating its 50th anniversary
The New Year is approaching and it’s not too late to start thinking about resolutions. One resolution to consider is getting into slow fashion, better known as thrifting or shopping locally. There’s no better place to start your slow fashion journey than Snob Shop!
Snob Shop is located downtown and for 51 years they have been working hard to bring slow fashion, create a better way of shopping that won’t completely empty your pockets, and keeping in mind the thought of not overworking their employees.
“The Snob Shop sells quality clothing and looks that don’t overwork laborers,” employee and senior Frii Sampson-Young said.
Snob Shop works hard to maintain their mission of taking quality goods from the community and reselling them in a sustainable manner. They have a donation counter open 4 days a week that takes items ranging from socks, hats, and pajamas to plates, pillows, and paintings, declining very few items. Donations are taken to the back, where in-season items are placed directly on the racks, while out-of-season items are sent to a donation center. Through this process, Snob Shop works to give back to the community and support those in need in an ethical way.
“At the Snob Shop they believe in upcycling, providing a premium shopping experience, and connecting with all their customers,” Sampson-Young said.
Snob Shop being so close to R.J. Reynolds High School has opened job opportunities for some at RJR, one of those people being Frií Sampson-Young. Sampson-Young is well known for her extensive hard work at RJR, being cheer captain and hosting the annual homecoming pep-rally. Her willingness to be involved doesn’t just stop at school, she’s always working within the community as well.
“I was offered the job when I was in 8th grade because of how often I would shop there and how much I loved being around the staff,” Sampson-Young said.
Sampson-Young has worked for many years to help give back to the community bringing an additional light to Snob Shop, as she works long-shifts and mans the register. She does it all, and Snob Shop truly couldn’t do it without her.
“At the Snob Shop I’m a sales associate so I mark in inventory, work at the cash register, and dress the mannequins,” Sampson-Young said.
Next time you are planning a shopping day with your friends or family and considering another trip to the mall, think about slowing down and stopping by your local businesses. They work hard to provide the community with both quality and convenience.