New Russell business turns back the hands of time
By KALEY CONNER
RUSSELL -- As a child, Dylan Palma began collecting vintage Coca Cola products.
It's a hobby that's only grown with time. The 31-year-old Colorado native opened a downtown antique store, D. Palma & Co. Mercantile, last month.
"It's kind of just a passion I've always had, and an interest in old things, and preserving them and sharing them with others," Palma said.
The store features about 20 different antique vendors and also works on consignment. There still is room for about 10 more vendors, he said.
Merchandise includes everything from antique clothing and books to furniture and decor. The business especially is targeting art deco artifacts from the 1920s and 1930s. Vintage items from the 1950s also are in high demand, Palma said.
"I think if it appeals to somebody and they like it, that's the main thing," he said.
Palma specializes in Depression glass, and many of his collectibles can be found throughout the store.
Palma's knowledge about the colorful glassware already has proven an asset to other vendors, said Tim Boxberger, one of two volunteers who help out at the store while Palma works at the local grocery store.
"We get a kick out of it, because when somebody gets out of the car across the street, if they have a glass in their hand, by the time they get to the front door he's probably identified the maker and the pattern of that glass," Boxberger said with a chuckle.
"It's true," Palma agreed.
The business already has launched a website, www.dpalmaco.com, a blog and a Facebook page. Palma hopes to someday expand his online presence to offer shopping via eBay and the store's home page.
And with signs already located along Interstate 70, the store has seen many summer travelers stopping to browse, he said, noting local response also has been welcoming.
For Palma, his latest business venture is a dream come true. His home also is filled with antiques, and he's thankful for the opportunity to take his hobby to another level.
"It's kind of the spillover is what you see here," he said with a laugh. "We were glad to get this up and running, on Main Street especially."