Wetaskiwin's Stacey Eckenswiller has always loved buying and selling antiques. She often keeps her favourite finds to use and enjoy at home. For others she finds new homes, and appreciative new families.
For many years, Stacey enjoyed collecting as a hobby while she worked in the mental health field. When it came time for a career change, and she considered her options, her husband was quick to chime in: "Why don't you do something you love to do?" she recalls. "And I've always loved buying and selling antiques."
A little research found that Wetaskiwin lacked an antique store at the time, despite a keen interest from local antique hunters and the city's easily accessed location along Central Alberta's transportation corridors. Stacey also recognized the breadth of collectibles out there, including many outside her areas of expertise.
The result – celebrating its first anniversary this summer – is Forgotten in Time Antique Mall in the heart of downtown Wetaskiwin, "a haven for history enthusiasts and treasure seekers alike." Here, Stacey showcases both her own items and leases space to other collectors, who share their knowledge, expertise and special finds from their booths.
More than just a shopping destination, Forgotten in Time is a journey into the past, filled with diverse collections that include vintage clothing, vinyl records, unique collectibles and other treasures. "We always have a really wide variety, and that makes us a one-stop shop for gifts, whether you're looking for something special for a friend or something unique for yourself," Stacey says.
From vintage wedding dresses to sports memorabilia to housewares from the 1800s, you'll find it here. "It reminds us of the past and of a simpler time," Stacey suggests. "People also appreciate how many of the older things were built better and built to last."
Among the more unique items that comes across Stacey's counter is old money, including mis-prints that can become quite sought-after. "I've had people come to the store from Europe to buy it, even though we ship to Europe," she says. "I think that's pretty cool. I've also sent pieces all over Canada and the U.S., so I do find that pretty exciting."
While Stacey and her fellow history buffs enjoy putting Wetaskiwin on the map in the antique and collectible world, they're also grateful for the support they've had here at home. "Everyone has been super supportive," she says. "And we try to have things that are affordable to everyone – we're not a museum."
Enjoy a browse through history at Forgotten in Time Antique Mall – at 5021 50 Ave. in downtown Wetaskiwin – or shop online at forgottenintimeantiquemall.com
This business profile is part of a series from Wetaskiwin’s Economic Development office. To learn more about initiatives to grow local business and industry, visit wetaskiwin.ca/831/Invest-Wetaskiwin.
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