Laurie Gratzinger and her new antique outlet, Laurie's Vintage Store, have come down a long road. Owning her own store was a dream of hers.
"My late husband Jimmy and I were owner-operator truck drivers," she said. "When not driving, I had time on my hands. So I got the idea to open up an antiques booth at Texarkana Country Market (run by Jack and Debbie Hatfield).
Her travels presented her with opportunities to obtain items that would help her stock a future antiques store. She didn't have to do it alone, either.
"My oldest brother and I collected antiques for years," she said. "Eventually, we began talking about starting this business. I lost my brother Bobby in February, but running this business is something I know he would have loved. I know he does love it."
She still has family to help out and has partnered with Daniel, another brother, on the new store. Her granddaughter, Page, helped her set the store up when it was time.
Looking at the wares in her new store, it's clear items were picked by people with an eye and love for antiques. You also see items cared for by talented hands.
"I obtained an antique mechanical cash register," Gratzinger said. "I've learned a few things about tools in the years. I was able to fix this register. Since then, I've had several offers to buy it, but I'm holding onto it."
"I do love antiques, and I love running my own business," she said. "I love having the chance to do something with both."
Laurie's Vintage Store is on U.S. Highway 67 near Kings Highway on the same lot with Texarkana Country Market. Call Laurie's Vintage Store at 870-397-5117.