In with the old: Great Lakes Antiques – Boutique opens in Antioch

Antioch is now home to two buildings filled with antiques, arts and crafts, woodworking, clothing and more.

Great Lakes Antiques – Boutique, 41055 N. Route 83, Antioch, opened May 15. The business is owned by Lauri and Trent Tobias who both grew up in Antioch and still call it home.

“I am a superintendent at a school and my husband is a car dealer, and we bought a building and it evolved from there,” Lauri Tobias said of the business venture.

The Tobias’ always loved the building, which was previously an Amish furniture store. Now, Great Lakes Antiques – Boutique features a mixture of eclectic items, as well as consignor goods and individual booth space for local artists.

“The stuff people bring in has been so much fun,” Lauri Tobias said.

All it took was a sign outside and pretty soon, the Tobias’ were able to fill both buildings on the property.

“We have heard nothing but positives,” Lauri Tobias said. “There is so much to see. There is something for everyone.”

There's everything from antiques to candles, and clothing and food items. The store even features a “man booth,” so there really is something for everyone.

“It’s just a fun place,” Lauri Tobias said.

Julie Salk, general retail sales, agrees. She is at the shop four days each week and loves that the store offers new and old items in the same building. She said Great Lakes features more than 60 dealers and consignors, and there is currently a waiting list for people who want to showcase their wares at the shop.

Consignment is offered on a 60/40 split for a 90-day term. Items on consignment currently include furniture, artwork, jewelry and more.

“We’re very pleased and we’ve gotten such a great response from people,” Salk said.

In the future, Salk said the store plans to partner with others in the community for events and has an art night planned for October.

A sign outside the shop reads: “Antiques Boutique and Lots of Cool Stuff.”

The ladies said they encourage everyone to come see for themselves.