In the past year, businesses at the end of town close to the Brown Bridge have been getting an overhaul. Backroads Bike Shop closed, but now a video store has moved in to take its place. Krankin’ Vintage Restoration and Auto Repair bought out Mini Mikes. Princeton Farm Centre sold to West Coast Farm and Industrial Equipment and the old Napa building has undergone a transformation inside and out with tenants as yet unknown. Then, of course, there is Fields. The old Fields building was torn down and moved their business to Vermilion Avenue and a new Coopers store is beginning to take on a life of its own. Last, but not least More n’ a Deli popped up between the Spotlight office and Similkameen Vending.
The new kid on the block for the start of 2011 is The Winking Pedlar. After a year spent in the Princeton Plaza, owner Sue Alton has moved house to the “hood.” She is hoping that all the great new changes to the Brown Bridge end of town will be a good thing for her growing business and ever changing inventory. Alton specializes in antique and vintage items. The look of the heritage building she now resides in is one she appreciates. “I like the look of this building,” said Alton. “It is complementary to my business. Alton also likes the open design of the building’s interior and the extra square footage and natural lighting
So far, she has been thrilled with the space and has been pleased to set up all her products for display. Besides vintage items, Alton has natural soy candles, natural soaps, Howard Wood Products, Dimpleskins BumBum baby bottom balm, some reproductions and more. “I have new inventory weekly,” stated a busy Alton. “I have a new lighting line I am bringing in because I am finding it so hard to keep lighting items in stock - lamps, ceiling lamps, you name it for lights - they are big here.” A line of shabby chic French country reproductions is arriving at the Winking Pedlar soon, as well as some native artifacts.,
From Tuesday to Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., the Winking Pedlar will be open for business and also will be open some Mondays. Joyce Edwards has hooked up with Alton to offer more selection in giftware plus small pieces of unfinished pine furniture. These items along with books on B.C. ghosts, edible plants, Canadian trivia and pirates, many unique pieces of furniture, vintage dishes and semi-precious jewelry make for a terrific place to peruse. All sorts of interesting artifacts are just a few steps away.
Friday was the first day, Alton’s doors were open at 279 Bridge St. and it was a busy afternoon. Many regular customers stopped in to say hello and check out the new digs while others used the opportunity to look for a treasure. More space, more inventory and more welcomes from Alton are hoped to be just what the Winking Pedlar needs for a fresh new start. Alton welcomes her customers to come spend some time in her new location. “There is a lot to see and I can help you find something for just about anyone.”