New Vintage Showcase Opens in Elgin

On December 1, 2012, a new store, owned by Lisa Madrid, opened its doors in downtown Elgin.  It's located at 225 E. Chicago (at the corner of Villa and Chicago), in the old Carswell's Carpeting location.  Like all new businesses, the journey from concept to realization was fraught with complications and challenges.

It was just a year ago that Lisa visited the ISBDC at ECC for the first time to discuss the steps necessary to open a retail location specializing in the resale of 1940s through 1970s furniture and other household items.  Lisa had been collecting items for a long time - so much that her house was bursting at its seams.  She felt the Carswell location would be ideal from the beginning, but it took months before she was ready to settle into that spot.

We always recommend that a new business must begin with a business plan.  In addition to creating the Business Plan, Lisa needed a contract for the dealers that would display items in her shop.  She also needed to make certain the lease agreement would suit her needs.  The ISBDC provided counseling on all of these items.

Lisa says that her biggest challenge now is marketing.  To minimize marketing expenses, Lisa has had to be creative.  You'll find her on the internet at www.retro-a-gogo.net and on Facebook.  (Visit these sites to view some of her vintage treasures.)  She offers coupons, participates in a local rewards card program, participates in organizations that promote local businesses, advertizes through online websites that are magnets for those interested in estate sale items, and partners with local businesses that share her flair and cater to a similar market segment.

Three months after opening, Retro-a-GoGo is brimming with vintage goods, all artfully displayed.  Store hours are Thurs-Sat 11-8, Sun 12-6, Mon & Tues 11-8 (Closed on Wednesdays).