In a 120-year-old town of quaint buildings and decorative windmills, one would expect to find antique shops, and Lynden doesn't disappoint.
Downtown's Front Street is a haven for exploring bygone days, and picking up treasures along the way. Twice As Nice is one of several charming antiques dealers catering to visitors who come to indulge in an afternoon of time-travel.
The owner, Brenda Campeau, is youthful for an antiques dealer, but savvy nonetheless, having received her training from Gloria and Larry Harriman, antiques dealers and the legendary former owners of Wardner's Castle in Fairhaven.
Campeau worked at their Atlantis Antiques in downtown Bellingham, and continued their legacy when they retired, first with Affordable Furnishings on Holly Street and then opening Twice As Nice in Lynden six years ago.
"I was inspired by the beautiful things at Atlantis and I've always loved antiques," says Campeau. "I'm also a people person, and I like talking to the visitors we get from all over."
Campeau chooses her inventory carefully. Every corner of the 3,400-square-foot shop bursts with history and decorative potential, each discovery something to cherish.
Dressers, vanities, beds and living room furniture serve as both store display and items for sale. The furnishings are embellished with glassware, knickknacks, vintage toys, costume jewelry, decorative lamps, embroidered linens and fine china. Clothing, hats, handbags and boas festoon the rest of the space.
Campeau stocks all price ranges, and says the economic recession has actually been a boon.
"People appreciate that these things were built to last," she says. "The quality is unmistakable, the look has character, and the price is usually less than buying new."
TWICE AS NICE
Owner: Brenda Campeau
Location: 404 Front St., Lynden
Hours: 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays.
Contact: 360-354-1547
