Name: Cross the Street Collectibles

Name of owner: Kim Shelton

Address of business: 209 N. Second St., Niles

Date business opened: Dec. 2, 1995

What type of business do you operate — what you sell, services provided? Antiques and collectibles — a large assortment of kitchenware, vintage clothing, breweriana, jewelry, toys (Star Wars, Star Trek, all kinds of character toys), records, CDs, linens and a vast assortment of nostalgia.
I also buy collections and sometimes I’ll even trade.

What sets your business apart from similar ventures? I am mostly nostalgia — I like to sell things that people remember, brings back memories. So much so that I “guarantee flashbacks.”

I have one of the largest collections of character and personality toys in the area, besides a vast amount of vintage kitchenware, utensils, dishes, etc.

What customers do you reach? All ages. I’ve got a lot of regular customers from across the United States and even some from Japan.
I’d say my biggest client base is from Chicago and the surrounding area.

How does the future look? Great. I have some great customers. My regulars keep me in business. I’ve been here long enough that children who came in years ago with their parents are now coming in as young adults. It’s quite rewarding.

Recognition/awards: 2010 runner-up customer choice for antiques and collectibles. My biggest reward is all the great customers who keep coming back.

Telephone number: (269) 684-6129

Hours: Noon to 5-ish Monday and Tuesday and Friday through Sunday; closed Wednesday and Thursday.
I’m usually open until at least 5:30 to 6 p.m. depending on customer flow.