Antique shopping involves more than finding old-looking stuff that catches your eye. To find the right balance of style, quality and aesthetic you need to speak to a professional.
Gaylene and Ted London, owners of Roscoe Woodstock Antique Mall in Woodstock, are just such experts. Since 1998, they have assisted shoppers who peruse through their staggering assortment of slot machines, juke boxes, pinball and arcade machines, furniture, toys, records, clothing and other assorted rarities.
“People always ask if we charge admission,” says Gaylene.
The Londons may not be running a museum, but the items found in Roscoe Woodstock Antique Mall are just as carefully curated and restored. Ted’s passion for slot machines and other coin-operated contraptions has made him a sought-after expert in the game room world, drawing attention from coin-op enthusiasts the world over. The couple are always happy to share their combined experience, helping their customers find exactly what they need to beautify their homes.
Ted cautions against antique stores that resemble garage sales. A properly run antique store has staff who carefully appraise merchandise and ensure only the best items are in the display case. The Londons not only guarantee the authenticity and quality of their merchandise; they also offer repair and restoration on everything they sell.
“You can go into a lot of antique stores, and there isn’t an antique to be found,” Ted says.
One word, in particular, sets off alarm bells.
“Vintage does not mean antique,” says Ted.
“When people spend money on something, they want the assurance that they’re buying from someone who knows about it,” Gaylene adds. “When you have the knowledge to back up what you’re selling and answer the customer’s questions, you’re providing a level of confidence.”
Roscoe Woodstock Antique Mall is located at 890 Lake Ave., Woodstock.
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