Combine the thrill of discovery, a bit of nostalgia, and throw in a haircut, and you’ve got RetroActive kids, a unique kids’ store in family-friendly Columbia City. Bursting with classic toys, clothes and curios, the shop shares space with a barbershop where you and your babe can get a new ’do.
Partners Beth Reyes and Trisha Gilmore were in sync from the start. Both loved vintage shopping, and both wanted to open a kids’ shop. “In high school, my favorite thing to do was raid my grandparents’ cedar chest. When I went to college, my mom gave all my old ’70s toys away. I still mourn that,” says Trisha. When Beth brought the shop idea to her, Trisha says, “I think I was the first person who said yes!”
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Though reasonably priced vintage items are increasingly scarce, the partners haven’t had to deviate much from their original vision. They carry “classic” toys, such as Legos, and re-released versions of board games like Monopoly and Clue, as well as crafts and books from local designers and authors. “Even Monchichi is making a comeback,” says Trisha.
After 10 years and with more families moving to the neighborhood, business is steady. “Retro is just ‘in’ now, and probably always will be,” Trisha says.
RetroActive Kids, 4859 Rainier Avenue S., Columbia City
932-3154, retroactivekids.com
