Melanie Wilkinson will Open "Fancy Treasures"

WALLA WALLA – Nothing New Antiques may look the same from the outside, but a few things have changed on the inside. Owners Lupe and Sandra Torres have been looking to retire from operating the store for some time and have worked out a mutually beneficial agreement with Waitsburg newcomer, Melanie Wilkinson, who will continue to operate the store.

Wilkinson is a fourth generation Touchet native, who spent a good part of each year working in Alaska. This year, however, she decided not to return to Alaska. Instead, she will operate Fancy Treasures from the former Nothing New Antiques location.

Wilkinson will add her own special touch to the antiques that already fill the store. She plans to specialize in "upper end secondhand antiques and collectibles." Wilkinson says she will carry collectibles like Star Wars Dolls and Barbie Dolls as well as Pam Allen's silk flowers from The Painter's Cottage in Walla Walla.

Wilkinson said she is also open to buying collectibles, family heirlooms, and quality household goods from local sellers.

Wilkinson will also to continue to rent out the upstairs lodging and invites locals to stop by the store for a tour. One room is a suite with two queens and one king bed, which rents for $145/night, and the other is an apartment with a queen bed and full kitchen that rents for $100/night. Both are decorated with antiques and include wifi access.

The store is currently open Thurs. – Sun. from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Wilkinson plans to expand her hours during the summer months.