Curated vintage finds

In this world of fast fashion and throwaway furnishings, there’s something soothing about wandering the shops at Timeless Treasures, meeting the vendors and imagining the stories behind their collections.

From authentic military memorabilia, classic toys, traffic signs and sports collectibles to rugs, artwork and whimsical metal yard décor, a visit to Timeless Treasures is where past meets present.

“Shopping antique stores and flea markets was always my hobby,” owner Barb Clark says. “After a career in veterinary medicine, I rented space in an existing shop in Willoughby selling my collection. My business partner, Gary Callahan, and I soon moved to a larger space with room for four additional vendors.”

After Gary passed away, his brother Norb Callahan, who had his own passion for antiques, joined Barb in the business. They opened Timeless Treasures in an old house in Mentor with room for 13 vendors to share their unique collections.

“The expansive front porch is so welcoming,” Barb says. “This was a real estate company, so the individual office layout works perfectly for us. Every vendor has their own space, creating a promenade-style experience for shoppers.”

Timeless Treasures specializes in, well, just about everything. Barb says, “If you don’t find something, you’re not looking hard enough.”

“I specialize in military items like edge weapons, bayonets and swords, military medals, helmets and more from the U.S. and Europe,” Norb says. “I also dabble in political and presidential history and even have some art deco pieces.”

That’s what makes Timeless Treasures unique. If one vendor doesn’t have what you’re looking for, the next one might. Take Matt Vest, a collector with not one, but three shops within his space at Timeless Treasures—Magical Matt’s Memorabilia & Toys, Alaric’s Artifacts and Vested Treasures.

“It’s like I’m a kid again,” Matt says. “My collections range from Star Wars and Ghostbusters to Elvis, sports, magic and more. I want people to feel better when they leave.”

Young people are also getting in on the fun. Brooklyn and Nayeli are high school student sisters who have filled their space, Stop, Drop & Shop, with vintage and primitive items.

“We have jewelry, paintings, blown glass in every color and more,” Nayeli adds. “There’s a little of everything and just one piece adds a lot of character to your home.”

Do you know what else adds character to your home? Decorative metal artwork. You see it everywhere but not like you’ll see at Stefany Belt’s shop at Timeless Treasures.

“A lot of my collection is seasonal, so I’m stocked with fall and holiday themes now,” Stefany says. “I also have sports-themed, handmade and wooden 3D art. It’s all an affordable way to add whimsy to your home.”

They may have different interests but the vendors at Timeless Treasures agree they love the hunt, and their customers.

“It’s satisfying seeing people breathe new life into old pieces,” Barb says. “And young people understand it’s a fun, affordable and sustainable way to decorate your home.”

Timeless Treasures is located at 8444 Mentor Avenue, in Mentor. For more information call 440-759-9871 or find it on Facebook. Store hours are closed Monday; Tuesday and Wednesday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Thursday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, 12-4 p.m.