For Sheshedz of Quitman owner Sheree Montgomery, the 80s party she has planned for the community this Friday, May 15, is a throwback to one of her favorite decades.
“I graduated from Plano East Senior High School in May 1989; I most definitely loved the 80s growing up, and wouldn’t trade it for the world,” Montgomery said. “I wish this experience could have happened to more youths these days.”
Great times with friends and family are some of Montgomery’s favorite memories from those years. She grew up with her cousins, with endless sleepovers. She camped with her family at Beavers Bend State Park, where she’d meet new people then be gone all day with them swimming and hiking.
“It’s amazing we were never kidnapped,” Montgomery said. “I remember driving up and down Forest Lane in Dallas with my girlfriends in high school. We were definitely feral, but always made it out alive and met some fantastic people.”
If you remember roller skates at the Sonic Drive-in, Montgomery worked as one of those rolling servers.
“I worked with my cousin, my same age, and other girls on my drill team,” Montgomery said. “We made great tips at car shows there. People would stop by going to and from the lake. I was getting paid to see all of my friends on the weekend there. So much fun.”
Montgomery is bringing these memories back to life this Friday, May 15, with an 80s party at Sheshedz Thrift House, her thrift store in Quitman.
“We are going to have fantastic 80s decorations, lots of fun sales throughout the day, and of course 80s music to bring the greatest vibe,” Montgomery said. “Our 80s outfit contest starts at 3 p.m... We hope to see lots of big hair, blue eye shadow, leg warmers, LA Gears shoes, banana clips, bracelets, and big hoop earrings.”
A Cabbage Patch doll just sold at the store last week, Montgomery said, a hit with youngsters in the 80s. She said the store has leg warmers, Levi’s denim jackets, leather pants, cookbooks from the 80s, and more.
“We have the sweetest pictures that bring back memories of my grandparents’ house,” Montgomery said. “But my favorite is of course the vinyl records. Mary Poppins, Charlie Pride, Grease, Olivia Newton John, Hank Williams Jr., and Def Leppard are just a few of my favorites.”
Three albums on constant repeat for Montgomery back in the 80s were Journey – Don’t Stop Believing, Juice Newton – Angel of The Morning (on a 45), and the soundtrack to Grease.
What advice would Montgomery give to her teenage self back then, if she could go back?
“You’re going to get your heart broken. You’re going to get picked on at school. You’re not going to make all your dance tryouts. But in the end, both your parents will still be there for you through it all,” Montgomery said. “Your life will lead you exactly where you should be. Never give up, never surrender, keep pushing forward to your best life.”
Sheshedz is located at 206 Winnsboro St. in Quitman. For more information, visit sheshedzthriftstore.com or call 903-270-4301.