Alice Calisti Launches Vintage Peony: A New Home Decor Destination in Newmarket
After a fulfilling 37-year career at Sears, Alice Calisti has turned her passion for home decor into a thriving business with the opening of Vintage Peony on Main Street in Newmarket. This new venture comes on the heels of Sears’ bankruptcy in 2017, an event that left Calisti unemployed for the first time in her life.
Transforming Challenges into Opportunities
Working in various roles at Sears, Calisti ultimately settled in the finance team at the company’s Toronto headquarters. When the iconic retailer closed its doors, she faced uncertainty. However, instead of remaining downcast, she chose to seize the moment. "I had never been unemployed before, it was difficult," Calisti shared. "I decided to create something for myself, to generate my own income—it was always a dream of mine."
Vintage Peony: A New Era in Home Decor
Initially, Calisti launched her vintage home decor business in Schomberg soon after leaving Sears, aligning her career with her passion. After a few successful years, she relocated Vintage Peony to a more prominent location just off Main Street in Newmarket. The store officially opened on May 10 at 477 Timothy St., featuring an ever-changing array of new, vintage, reclaimed, and antique decor items. Vintage Peony proudly serves as York Region’s local stockist for Annie Sloan chalk paints, offering everything from waxes and finishes to brushes and stencils.
A Community Connection
While in Schomberg, Calisti worked at a store where she frequently shopped. When the chance to manage the shop arose, she took it and even expanded her own business interests. Her longstanding expertise in home decor is evident, as she has previously created flower arrangements and operated booths in antique malls as side projects.
"I didn’t have a job, and finding one at my age was challenging," Calisti explained. “So I thought, ‘Why not go for it?’”
Recognizing the limitations of foot traffic in her former location, Calisti eagerly accepted the opportunity to move her business to Newmarket’s bustling Main Street, with the encouragement of a former store owner, Sherry Paymani.
A Warm Welcome Back Home
Calisti, a long-time Newmarket resident, treasures the chance to open a store closer to home. "The evolution of Main Street has been wonderful to watch over the years," she stated, expressing her excitement to contribute to the local community. Former occupant Paymani noted, "I believe Alice will do wonderfully here, and the people of Newmarket will enjoy shopping at Vintage Peony."
Inviting Unique Decor Choices
Calisti aims to attract a diverse customer base with her curated collection. "My inventory is always rotating, and old items can truly add character to a home," she explained. Vintage Peony’s offerings not only provide a sense of history but also bring warmth and uniqueness to living spaces.
In summary, Alice Calisti’s journey from a long-standing career at Sears to launching Vintage Peony highlights the transformative power of pursuing one’s passion. With a commitment to providing quality vintage decor to the Newmarket community, Calisti is poised for success in her new venture.
For those interested in discovering unique home decor items, visit Vintage Peony or explore more home design inspirations on ChatbiHouse’s blog here.
