Owner Charlie Solomon talks about her business.

How many years have you been in business?
30 years as of September 2023.

How did you get started?
My husband and one of our dear friends thought that it would be a great idea.

What made you decide on your current location?
We owned the property, and the building became vacant

What changes have you seen or made over the years open?
Changes were made when, and if we thought it necessary to stay with the times and going on computers!

What do you most Love about your Industry?
The customers sharing their memories and history about “the good old days.”

What are some of the common myths you come across in your business?
The largest myth is when people have been told something they have is antique and worth money when it’s not.

What message would you most like to share with people?
When you are looking for a “different” special gift, try your local Antiques Shop. Finding something special or personable is so rewarding.

How many booths/vendors do you feature in your mall?
28.

What months of the year is your outside selection available?
April through October.

What else would you like people to know about your business?
We have fantastic, honest dealers, are well stocked and have great prices. Also, great merchandise for the Holidays.

What is the biggest compliment customers give you?
Customers telling us that they love our shop! Fantastic displays and great prices. We are always sharing knowledge and information.

What are you most proud of?
All of my dealers and the fantastic job they do.

How many employees/Family work with you?
Approximately 30.

What are you most grateful for?
For all my dealers that work the desk and others who help at the desk on weekends and Holidays.

What are some of the biggest events/sales you hold during the year?
We do not hold a lot of “Sales” We do Holiday special events. We do fair pricing and offer restricted discounts on large items.

Who/what can you credit your success?
First to my husband Tom. He, being a businessman himself, helped me set-up and get started and has had my back for 30 years. Second, my friend and manager, Karen Hartay. She is truly “gold” to me.

Pilgrim Antique Mall
W156N11500 Pilgrim Rd.,
Germantown, WI

262-250-0260
www.pilgrimantiquesmall.com

Open Mon.-Sat., 10-5pm
Sun. noon-4pm.

This article is from the Wisconsin Country Life Winter 2023 Issue