SHOP LOCAL Twice Upon a Time • Brattleboro, Vermont A Family Legacy of Love and Local Treasures

Nicole Chase, owner of Twice Upon a Time in Brattleboro, recalls being just seven years old when her mother, Randi Krouse, purchased the shop back in 1986. At the time, it was a small consignment store on Elliot Street, specializing in infant and children's clothing and toys. &emsp;Krouse bought the business from a neighbor whose children she used to babysit. &emsp;"Ever since then, it's grown and morphed," explains Chase. &emsp;Since those early days, the store has changed locations three times. In 1996, it found its current home on Main Street, in the historic Italian-American Building. The space, originally an old department store built in 1896, is rich with character — featuring large columns, a beautiful mezzanine, and three expansive floors totaling 10,000 square feet. &emsp;Today, Twice Upon a Time is more than just a children's consignment shop. It's a treasure trove of goods — furniture, antiques, collectibles, jewelry, vintage clothing, Vermont-themed magnets, greeting cards, local pottery, and artwork — all sold through a mix of vendor rentals and consignment. &emsp;Family is a central theme for Chase, and she makes that clear to anyone who walks through the door. Behind the counter, a family tree is proudly displayed. &emsp;"When my sister and I were working for my mom, we both had kids, and so we actually brought our kids back to work with us," says Chase. "We changed them here, breastfed them here. They had their own little play space. Over the years, we've had people coming and seeing us pregnant and then knowing our babies and have watched them grow." &emsp;After 38 years of ownership, Krouse retired, and Chase officially took over the business 10 years ago. Her sister, Cindi King, now manages the store alongside her. &emsp;"I rent space to a little over 1,000 vendors who give commission and rent. I also do consignment with people looking just to get rid of a couple of things or clearing out an estate. Consignment is 50/50. We help people out that way," says Chase. "We try to reduce, reuse and recycle. Give a home to anything and everything, to things that are usable and functional and beautiful." &emsp;Unlike many large antique shops that can feel cluttered or overwhelming, Twice Upon a Time puts a strong focus on organization and creating a welcoming atmosphere. &emsp;"Every booth has its own little nook, because there are so many different tastes and price ranges, which makes it more eclectic. It's less overwhelming and spaced out. We make all of our not-rented space into areas, like a living room area," says Chase. "It's welcoming and open and less claustrophobic." &emsp;Vendors don't work the floor — Chase has assembled a separate staff, made up of family and friends, who are constantly curating and refreshing each space to keep the store vibrant and inviting. &emsp;"I have some amazing vendors who have been with me for 30 years. They bring in really cool stuff at great prices and keep people coming back," notes Chase. "Like I always say, 'it takes a village,' to make this shop great!" BOX WITH LOGO Twice Upon a Time 63 Main Street Brattleboro, Vermont Twicetime.com 802-254-2261 Store Hours: Mon-Sat, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.