17-year-old takes the helm of The Thrifty Dresser

CAYUGA—In a move that has caught the attention of his community, 17-year-old Benjamin Voskamp has become the proud owner of The Thrifty Dresser, a well-loved second-hand store. 

Voskamp, who hails from a family of eight siblings and lives in Fisherville, finalized the purchase in October after a month of thoughtful consideration.

CAYUGA—Benjamin Voskamp is the new owner of The Thrifty Dresser despite his young age of 17. —Submitted photo.

The idea first came up when Voskamp’s mother jokingly suggested he take a look at the store, which had been put up for sale by its previous owner. What started as a casual comment quickly turned into an opportunity Voskamp couldn’t pass up. 

After speaking with the former owner and assessing the potential, Voskamp decided to take the leap into entrepreneurship.

The young business owner balances this new venture with a job on a dairy farm, where he works mornings and evenings. 

“This is what I do during the day,” he explained, adding that running the store has been a fulfilling experience so far.

Voskamp plans to keep the store’s name and focus on understanding his customers’ needs. 

“I’m hoping to grow the business, extend it, and figure out what people want so I can bring those things in,” he said.

His aspirations include attracting more shoppers and continuing to serve the community with quality second-hand items.

Though running a business at such a young age comes with its challenges, Voskamp is not without support. He relies on his parents and a trusted colleague for guidance. 

“I turn to them for help when I need it,” he said.

The Thrifty Dresser currently operates with two employees and is open Tuesdays through Saturdays; hours available online. 

While he hasn’t planned a grand opening event, Voskamp is excited about the future. 

“I never thought I’d be doing this,” he admitted, “but when I saw an opportunity, I took it.”

His excitement is palpable as he embarks on this new chapter, juggling responsibilities and dreaming big for the business: “I’m joyful, happy, and looking forward to what’s to come.”