How thriving antique store has brought joy to others in pandemic

The unique venture started by two friends, has been so successful that they have just opened their second store.

The Vintage Pear antique store expands to second location. Owners- Nicole O'Malley-Jones (left) and Helen Anderson. Thursday, January 13, 2022. Picture: Nev Madsen.

It all started with a couple of vintage tea cups, but in a matter of months it has grown into a successful business selling a variety of antiques and collectables.

Friends Nicole O’Malley-Jones and Helen Anderson opened their store the Vintage Pear in July 2021, and while it’s been a challenging time for some small businesses in the midst of Covid-19, the duo has had so much support that they have just expanded into a second location.

The Vintage Pear antique store expands to second location. Owners- Nicole O'Malley-Jones (left) and Helen Anderson. Thursday, January 13, 2022. Picture: Nev Madsen.

Ms Anderson, who has worked with antiques for more than a decade, first started her love affair with vintage when she purchased a few stunning sets of china which she began to rent out to the public.

But last year she decided to join forces with Ms O’Malley-Jones, when her ever-growing collection needed a place to call home.

“We love the idea of being in the main street of Toowoomba,” Ms O’Malley-Jones said.

“I think what makes us successful is that we take beautiful things and give people a chance to give them a new life, and a lot of people are on-board with that upcycling concept.”

The Vintage Pear antique store expands to second location. Owners- Nicole O'Malley-Jones (left) and Helen Anderson. Thursday, January 13, 2022. Picture: Nev Madsen.

Selling everything from clothing and china, to art and furniture, the best part of the sweet store is the heartwarming essence of nostalgia it delivers its customers.

“We don’t see ourselves as a dusty antique shop – we see ourselves as a gift shop that also sells amazing, high quality antiques.”

“So many people come into our shop and have a little bit of a cry because it reminds them of people, things and places they’ve seen before, and we love it because they love it – there is so much emotion in what we do and it’s just beautiful.”

The original store remains at 436 Ruthven St and the new store is just down the road at 451 Ruthven St. Operating hours vary.

For more information, visit thevintagepear.net.