Family business Uncle Jon's Music marks 10 years in Westmont

WESTMONT – The new year brings a new milestone for one family-owned Westmont business.

Uncle Jon’s Music – co-owned by Jon Kostal Sr. and Jr. – has turned 10 years old.

The family run business – specializing in new and used musical instruments, lessons, repairs and rentals – originally opened back in January 2004 at 33 N. Cass Ave.

“My dad had the idea before the opportunity came up,” Kostal Jr. said. “We were talking about how it’d be neat if a small, old time music store [opened] downtown... We just thought it’d be something we were good at.”

The Kostals were presented with an opportunity from their friend, and now landlord, to open shop in downtown Westmont.

The lifelong Westmont resident said the shop employs about a dozen people, including his family, three music teachers and some part-time workers.

The store has stayed mostly the same through the years, but they are hoping for a new remodel sometime this year, Kostal Jr. said.

The business strives to reach out to the community, treating customers like family members, he added.

“It’s like a small town family vibe,” Kostal Jr. said. “We like to keep it cozy inside, everyone is welcome.

“It’s our home town. [We wanted] to offer something more to downtown Westmont.”

Even though an anniversary is a one-day event, Uncle Jon’s plans to celebrate the anniversary year-round with free Ukulele circles, customer appreciation events and celebrations throughout the year.

“We just love music and we love Westmont,” he said. “I enjoy being a part of the community and I want it to thrive.”