Based in Tower City, Vintage 209 is a labor of love for owner Brenda Koch. Established in 2020, this business specializes in antiques, primitives, home decor, and the “rusty & dusty” treasures that make a house feel like a home.
Operating out of four popular collective marketplaces in the region—including Beauty Bee Storefront on the Trail and The Street of Shops—Brenda curates collections that preserve history and spark nostalgia.
In this Small Business Showcase Q&A, Koch discusses her deep appreciation for family heirlooms, her active role in the Lions Club, and the incredible personal health battle that turned her business into a form of life-saving therapy.
What inspired you to start this business, and how did your personal journey lead you here?
“Starting as a part-time hobby and leading into a full-time dream of researching antiques and sharing my love of history. Incorporating vintage items into my customers’ homes really warms my heart. My parents showed me the love of appreciating the family heirlooms, to pass down not just the materialistic things but the family values.”
What unique products or services do you offer that can’t be found elsewhere in our community?
“We offer a wide variety of antiques, vintage, primitive, rusty & dusty… you name it! We also sell home decor and dried flowers. We offer a special touch, creating collections of history in furniture and smalls to make your home welcoming.”
Can you share an interesting fact or story about your business that most people may not know?
“On a very personal note… I was very sick five years ago. Placed on a ventilator and in an induced coma for eight days. I had to learn how to walk, to talk, to write my name…everything was lost. During my hospital stay, we also lost our Dad to COVID. That was the most difficult thing. After eight months of painful physical therapy and more emotional things to overcome… a friend encouraged me to get back to Vintage 209. This was a whole new therapy. It really challenged me as I tried to create new pieces, attend vendor shows and participate in life again. Our customers, fellow vendors, and family and friends are amazing.”
How does your business contribute to the local community or participate in community events?
“We have sponsored many events and organizations. I personally have been involved with the Porter Tower Lions Club in Tower City for almost 20 years, holding many officer roles including President for several years.”
What do you want customers to experience when they interact with your business?
“I would love our customers to take time to remember the memories our Vintage items may bring to them.”
Why should someone consider visiting or patronizing your business during the holiday season?
“We have sooo much Vintage Christmas!”
What are your future plans or dreams for your business?
“Our future plans include more vintage hard-to-find treasures, more interesting antiques, and giving back more to our local communities.”
What advice would you give to someone wanting to start their own business in our community?
“Starting a business is not for the weak. Lol. I absolutely LOVE this business but it is challenging. Take it one day at a time. Develop relationships with fellow vendors, fellow business owners, customers. There’s always something new to learn.”
At A Glance
- Business Name: Vintage 209
- Owner: Brenda Koch
- Base Location: Tower City, PA
- Retail Locations:
- Beauty Bee Storefront on the Trail
- Bulldog Boutique
- Shops on Market
- Street of Shops
- Services: Vintage, Antiques, Primitives, Home Decor, Dried Flowers
- Phone: 717-439-1405
- Payment Methods: Cash, Credit/Debit cards, Checks, Mobile/Online payments
- Social Media: Follow on Facebook
Feature Your Small Business on Coal Region Canary
Our Small Business Showcase is a great way to share the story of your company, its products and services to our growing and highly-engaged readership. To get a feature like the one you just read for your business, follow this link and fill out the form you find in that post.
Subscribe to Coal Region Canary
Get email updates from Coal Region Canary by becoming a subscriber today. Just enter your email address below to get started!Support Coal Region Canary
Like our reporting and want to support truly local news in Schuylkill County? Your small donations help. For as little as $5, your contribution will allow us to cover more news that directly affects you. Consider donating today by hitting the big yellow button below ...