Introduction to Lady Mary Beth
Houston is rumored to be the number one city in Texas for thrifting, and it’s not hard to believe given the abundance of charity resale shops, thrift stores, and antique malls in and around the city. This has led to the rise of Lady Mary Beth, a lifestyle expert who has become the authority on where and what to thrift in Houston. Lady Mary Beth, whose real name is Mary Beth Schmitz, has built a rapidly-growing empire consisting of her annual Houston Resale Guide & Map, a weekly YouTube show, social media accounts, an online store, and upcoming ticketed events and retreats.
Background and Credentials
So, what qualifies Lady Mary Beth to be a lifestyle expert and luxury thrifting aficionado? She is a sixth-generation Texan and a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution and the XVII Century. She also has an illustrious career with Waterford Crystal and has worked as a luxury gift consultant for Fortune 500 companies. These credentials, combined with her passion for thrifting, make her the perfect person to guide people through the world of thrifting in Houston.
The Origins of Lady Mary Beth
Lady Mary Beth was born out of an epiphany Schmitz had while getting her hair done. A well-placed piece of wall decor with an inspiring message, followed by encouragement from her family, led her to launch her YouTube channel in January 2020. She set up a tripod and filmed her first episode, which marked the beginning of her journey as a lifestyle expert and thrifting guru. Her show is mostly educational, covering collectible legacy brands, patterns, artisans, and how to identify them.
Favorite Thrifting Spots
With hundreds of Houston shops to choose from, Lady Mary Beth’s favorites are charity thrift shops that are linked directly to the local community. Her top three picks are The Bluebird Circle, the Charity Guild, and the Guild Shop. She also recommends Second Blessings in Montrose, which she claims is a hidden gem with exceptional donors and a unique vibe. The annual rummage sale at Second Blessings is an event not to be missed, with donors having exceptional taste and items like Baccarat en masse.
Products and Events
The Lady Mary Beth brand has expanded into a line of products, including tea towels, thrift journals, and custom-blended teas. She also hosts luncheons and thrifting retreats, such as the upcoming peacock-themed Savor & Style Luncheon at the Junior League of Houston. This event will feature expert table-setting tips, engaging conversation, and exclusive table favors. Attendees will also enjoy a beautifully-curated swag bag and the chance to win exciting giveaways.
The Crown Jewel of Thrift Finds
Lady Mary Beth’s most prized thrift find is a teacup and saucer from JFK’s Air Force One. She found it at The Guild Shop while on a mission to fill an heirloom tea cabinet. The teacup was initially thought to be a mass-produced souvenir, but a deep dive into its provenance revealed its true origins. The teacup is now a treasured possession and a testament to the excitement and surprise of thrifting.
Gifting Thrifted Items
Lady Mary Beth stresses that the stigma of gifting a thrifted item is unwarranted. She believes that if an item brings joy, it doesn’t have to be from a fancy manufacturer or have a rich history. She encourages people to "thrift the gift" and not worry about the original box or packaging. This mindset has contributed to the shift in clientele and the growing popularity of thrifting, especially among charity shops that support community programs.
Conclusion
Lady Mary Beth has become a household name in Houston, and her influence extends beyond the city limits. Her passion for thrifting, combined with her expertise and credentials, has made her the go-to authority on where and what to thrift. With her guides, YouTube show, products, and events, she has created a community of like-minded individuals who share her love for thrifting and slow living. Whether you’re a seasoned thrifter or just starting out, Lady Mary Beth is the perfect guide to help you navigate the world of thrifting and elevate your everyday life.
