When Inta Vintage moved into their new home in Sumner five years ago, Pam and Curt Johnson were thrilled by their purchase of the 100+ year old building. “It wasn’t an easy move because we were moving dozens of vendors at the same time we were bringing the building back to life,” said Pam recently.
The historic building in downtown Sumner needed new plumbing, electricity, and fire alarms. With a goal of restoring and maintaining the old charm the building once had, the Johnsons took out the drop ceilings and removed sheetrock to expose beautiful brick. Then between 2021 and 2022, they worked to open the top floor and basement allowing for 65 vendors on three floors within 11,000 square feet.
Accommodating more vendors is Pam’s biggest challenge. “I have a long waiting list of potential vendors and I want to help them all. I love to showcase people and give them a chance,” said Pam.
Inta Vintages offers a curated selection of items that capture the essence of times gone by, from retro clothing that whispers the secrets of the 1960s to classic vinyl records that resonate with electric guitars. ‘Weird Stuff & Cool Junk’ is the vibe at Inta Vintage.
Previous Boeing managers, Pam and Curt know what it is like to manage people. According to Pam, “I am very blessed to have a lot of creative people with me in the building.” With an eclectic mix of vendors, they have built an incredible community that supports each other. “My favorite time of the day is when all the vendors are open.”
Pam’s love of vintage was developed by spending time with her grandmother who had an appreciation for heirlooms. “I have a passion for recycled antiques, and I wanted to share that passion with other people. Plus, I like to save items from the landfill.”
“Even though our building is 105 years old, it doesn’t smell like an old building. We are complimented every day about how clean the spaces are and especially about how wonderful and polished it is,” Pam said.
Inta Vintage
intavintage.com
BY LYNN CASTLE