advertisement

East Dundee village president opening antique shop

Village President Lael Miller says he's putting his money where his mouth is.

By starting a business in downtown East Dundee, he and his wife, Connie - avid antique collectors and crafters - believe they've found a way to share their passion with the community.

Their shop, Midwest Retro, is expected to open at 207 Barrington Ave. this spring and will offer antiques, decorative pieces, artwork and furniture for homes and businesses.

"East Dundee is such a beautiful town. The only thing it's lacking right now is a little more shopping and retail," Miller said. "We figured this would be an absolute perfect place and time to put this concept here."

The pair has been scouring flea markets, auctions, shops and estate sales across the Midwest for one-of-a-kind items, Miller said. The products, typically high-end, range in style from farmhouse to industrial to shabby chic, he said.

Local businesses have already expressed interested in having Midwest Retro decorate their spaces, he said.

"We cherry pick the best of the best, and that's what we bring home," Miller said. "It's kind of a unique twist on an upscale store for unique shopping."

Midwest Retro will also feature the work of local artisans, he said, some of whom specialize in painting or making tables, lamps and candles.

The Millers are renting half the remaining space at the Barrington Avenue address, a property owned by West Dundee businessman Bob Contaldo. Onyx Studio, a personal care and beauty salon that opened last year, was the building's first tenant.

Miller and his wife started discussing owning their own business several months ago. Now, he said, he's transitioning from working in the real estate business to focusing full time on the store and his work at the village.

"I think (Midwest Retro) is going to be a great fit for the whole area," he said. "There's really nothing like this around here."

Article Comments
Guidelines: Keep it civil and on topic; no profanity, vulgarity, slurs or personal attacks. People who harass others or joke about tragedies will be blocked. If a comment violates these standards or our terms of service, click the "flag" link in the lower-right corner of the comment box. To find our more, read our FAQ.