Among the various shops around Oswego, a small thrift shop holds true vintage treasures. Mixed Market Thrift holds racks and racks of antique goodies. From classic hand-painted pieces to unique outfits, Mixed Market has a plethora of options to choose from.
The shop, located at 27 Stone Hill Rd., Suite A, Oswego, IL, is the perfect small-town business with a warm and welcoming ambiance. They offer unique and eclectic pieces for every taste.
Customers can walk among cabinets full of gorgeous antique glassware, well-loved tables, and a room full of lamps and trinkets. The business prides itself on taking pre-loved pieces and giving them a second chance.
“There’s always a story behind what they’re donating, especially if it’s from a loved one,” said owner Denise Weszelits.
Despite being a profitable business, Mixed Market aims to be a philanthropic member of the community as well, donating to local organizations and hosting fundraisers for a variety of causes. With over 24 years of experience in thrifting and hosting garage sales, Weszelits puts her heart and soul into finding ways to give back to the community through her business.
“My true passion is making things out of nothing,” explains Weszelits. “Taking junk off the curb and repurposing it.”
In addition to selling beautiful, preloved, and antique items, the business also hosts art classes in their warehouse space, inviting community members to become active members of their Mixed Market family.
“[The warehouse and classes are] what’s going to make us different than any other places that are just selling antiques,” said Weszelits.
With a surge in fast fashion and a new trend, “fast home decor” is taking over vintage pieces. A recent preference in home decor trends swaps decadent furniture for modern, less complex pieces. While this may be the trend, some still prefer vintage pieces for their style and quality.
“It’s so much more unique, the amount of statement pieces I find, or just cute little trinkets and stuff that you don’t see 10 different people getting from Target. It really helps me craft my own personality and create my own identity,” said OH junior Abby Gears.
The size and scope of the business have grown exponentially over the past year. Originally located in the heart of downtown Oswego, Mixed Market Thrift has expanded to a new location, a storefront over three times larger. The space aims to offer both a unique shopping experience as well as an opportunity to welcome the community.
My name is Natalie Raabe and I am a senior at Oswego High School. This is my second year as a member of the 42fifty team and I serve as a Managing Editor and the Features Section Leader. Additionally, I am a member of the BIONIC board, NHS, Best Buddies, SNHS, NEHS, Rho Kappa, and Mu Alpha Theta.
Hello! I'm Fionnuala Quinn. I'm currently a senior at OHS and this is my third year of journalism. Apart from journalism, I am involved in Cross Country, Track and Field, Best Buddies, and horticulture club. I'm so thrilled to serve as EIC this year!
