One-of-a-Kind Finds

As a continued sign that the economy is growing in our community, another long time Coeur d’Alene business is adding and expanding. Government Way Antique Mall recently acquired the space adjacent to their current location, adding several thousand square feet and new vendors for local shoppers to browse. The mall works as a co-op where local antique dealers and vendors rent space inside the building, giving shoppers a wide range of vintage goods to browse, all in one place. With the new addition, the store has gone from 25 to 39 vendors with space for a few more as well.

“Ebay hurt us a bit when it first came out, but it seems people want to touch, feel and shop local again,” said owner Glenn Gatherer. When the opportunity to purchase the space next door came up, Gatherer already had a waiting list of vendors wanting to open up shop. Also the owner and operator of Nate’s New York Pizza in Post Falls, Gatherer has seen both his businesses through the economic downturn and knows what it takes to keep things going during the tough times. “The popularity of items is definitely changing, we’re seeing a lot more people looking for well-crafted furniture and vintage jewelry is also really popular right now,” said Gatherer. “I think people are realizing they can get a well built piece with character that will last instead of something cheaply made today.”

With 39 vendors, there is never a shortage of interesting merchandise coming in and out of Government Way Antique Mall each day. The inventory is constantly changing and you’ll find just about anything you can think of and many things you probably can’t. Furniture, jewelry, art, collectibles, metal signs, old photos, home décor and so much more, everything from shabby to chic and many high-end items as well. Each dealer looks at things differently and tends to specialize in certain goods allowing you to find quality items instead of just sifting through trinkets and knick knacks. In fact, items dating back to the late 1800s have found their way to Government Way Antique Mall including cast iron toys and even a three-piece Royal Doulton Chamber Pot and Water Bust!

The staff can also help you with an item you have at home that’s been collecting dust for years. While not official appraisers, they are more than happy to take a look at your item, find out some information on it and show you what similar items have been selling for at various outlets. Often vendors in the store will make an offer or have a referral on where to sell your item. If you have ever considered buying or selling antiques, there are still a couple open booths inside the mall. Once they are filled, you can be added to a waiting list should another space open up.

The most fun part of shopping Government Way Antique Mall is you really never know what you’ll find around each corner. Vendors are bringing in new items daily and once these one-of-a-kind items are sold something fun and different takes their place. If you’re looking for high quality vintage goods and one-of-a-kind pieces, skip the yard sales and check out the newly expanded Government Way Antique Mall.

Government Way Antique Mall

3650 North Government Way

Coeur d'Alene, ID

208.769.7318

#businessspotlight #shopping #local