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Overview
Mannequin Madness accepts, rents, and sells new and used (even damaged)
mannequins.
History
Judi Henderson's unique business began when she noticed an advertisement of a
mannequin for sale and considered purchasing one for a garden art project. Upon visiting the seller, she was overwhelmed to see his collection of over 50
mannequins. The seller informed her that as a former window dresser, his hobby
of collecting mannequins had evolved into a mannequin rental business. When he
mentioned that he was moving and closing the business, Henderson knew that with
her prior job experiences and Internet marketing skills she developed at a
dot-com, she could make this business work. Henderson decided to purchase the
entire inventory and started Mannequin Madness.
 Operations
Henderson operates the business on a full-time basis with assistance from her
boyfriend, Jay Townsend. When they were only renting mannequins, business was
slow. However, once they began selling mannequins they purchased from department
stores, their revenues increased five-fold and they attracted a loyal following
of buyers who appreciated their bargain prices and central location.
The basement of Henderson's home, a 1908 former Panamanian consulate, serves
as a "mannequin showroom." While this keeps their overhead low, she
admits customers sometimes feel a bit uncomfortable when they first enter the
basement and see so many sets of eye peering at them—not to mention the fact
that some of the mannequins are headless!
Mannequin Madness hires many independent contractors—haulers, carpenters,
graphic designers, bookkeepers, etc.—to assist in its operations. They do all
of their own packing, as their client demand requires out-of-state
shipments, causing their shipping costs to be quite expensive. Townsend is the
President of Shipping Operations at Mannequin Madness.
Materials Accepted
New and used (even damaged) mannequins, and styrofoam peanuts.
Source of Materials
Large and small retail outlets, department stores, individuals, etc.
Collection Service
Will pickup mannequins and styrofoam peanuts in Oakland, Berkeley, and San
Francisco. Call for details.
Geographic Service Area
Call for details.
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Drop-Off Hours
Call for an appointment.
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Days/Hours of Operation
Clients are seen by appointment only, but the hours are flexible—appointments
may be made for weekends, weeknights, as well as during normal business hours.
Contact Information
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