Pre-loved fashion makes a difference at Love Your Labels Lock-in

A massive thank you to everyone who came along to our Love Your Labels Lock-in on 24^th September, as well as all the wonderful volunteers who made the event possible.

The evening saw supporters flocking to our Sevenoaks High Street Shop in search of bargains, with 852 items sold and a massive £22,830.69 raised for patients and their loved ones supported by Hospice in the Weald.

Our eager shoppers enjoyed browsing a curated selection of their favourite designer and high street brands, including Max Mara, Barbour, Dr Martens and more; whilst Priority Entry Ticket holders had the first pick of the best items on offer.

mayor of sevenoaks talking to volunteer at love your labels

queue of shoppers at love your labels in sevenoaks

The impact of charity shopping

The Mayor of Sevenoaks, Councillor Victoria Granville, was also present at the event, where she chatted with our supporters and volunteers and kept an eye out for pre-loved pieces. The Councillor said: “Hospice in the Weald has affected just about everybody that I’ve ever known, and the support for the families has been invaluable. I know how little funding the Hospice gets, and I’m delighted that this year it’s my chosen charity.

“Of course, I understand the importance of recycling and reusing garments that would otherwise go to landfill, but it’s also a pleasure coming to this shop, and it’s an important part of the community.”

Hollyanne’s dad received care and support at Hospice in the Weald, and she attended Love Your Labels as a way to give back. “It’s such an important cause, my dad was cared for at the Hospice, they do incredible work over there. I think anything we can do to give back to them is important.

“I just love finding a bargain. It’s like going on a treasure hunt, and you get some really good discounts. Charity shopping is important on so many levels; it’s sustainable, we should all buy second hand and stop fast fashion, and it’s for a really good cause as well.”

erin holding up clothing bags at love your labels

catherine browsing clothes at love your labels

Sustainable & unique fashion

Erin, a regular second hand shopper and fan of the event, has an interest in fashion and was thrilled to fill her shopping basket with unique finds. She shared: “I enjoy charity shopping; it brings me happiness. I’m a stylist, and I love finding unique pieces that no one else has. I often recommend that people come to charity shops, it’s a good way to save the planet.

“Love Your Labels is the best event, I come every year. You should definitely come too, I found some amazing pieces, including Christian Louboutin, Prada glasses, Max Mara trousers and blazers…”

Catherine, who came along to ethically source her clothing, added: “I like looking for a good deal. It’s important to get good use out of clothes rather than just filling up more landfill waste. Supporting causes like this is important, every little bit helps.”

Sharon, Head of Retail at the Hospice, concluded: “What a brilliant evening! A huge thank you to everyone who came along, shopped with us, bought a priority ticket, and helped make our Love Your Labels Lock-in such a success. We’re also incredibly grateful to our wonderful volunteers, who give their time and energy to make events like this possible.

“It really is amazing to see our community come together and support second hand fashion whilst raising vital funds which help ensure people receive the care and support they need at Hospice in the Weald. We look forward to welcoming you to our future events and charity shops throughout the year!”