LAYTON—From peacock feathers to man-cave necessities, stepping into Treasured Again in Layton is definitely a unique experience. Michele Smith, the antique store owner, wanted to make sure her store contained a variety of finds for everyone.

“I knew the women’s niche well, but it has been really fun for me to learn about all of the stuff for men,” said Smith. “We have a lot of hidden treasures, and I’m even trying to encourage younger kids to love this stuff again.”

Smith started her venture by opening a location in the NPS Store at 1150 N. Main St. in Layton on April 1, 2022. More recently, in August 2022, she opened a stand-alone store on 397 E. Gentile St. in Layton. The idea all started in February 2022. Smith found the space inside the NPS store and started the remodel in March. 

When Smith worked on her store’s logo, she had her grandparents in mind. Her grandparents raised peacocks, and she thought it would be nice to honor them in her store in some way. So, she made sure to include peacock feathers in both the “T” and “A.” Smith also keeps plenty of peacock related items available in the shop to purchase.

Both of Smith’s stores have the same concept of featuring something for everyone. Smith also has a warehouse where customers can make an appointment to visit to see everything that can go into either store. And, with a background in elementary education, Smith helps everyone, even kids, see that her stores have something for everyone.

“I encourage all of my shoppers to walk through the store at least three times,” said Smith of the Gentile St. location. “Once to look up, once to look forward and once to look down.” Smith designed the store in layers to take full advantage of the high space. And on each layer, there is something for everyone; there is even a year-round Christmas display.

Antique chairs and furnishings line the upper layer so that she can utilize the eye-level and floor space more for collectibles. The store even has a kid’s corner. “I leave things out for kids on their level so they know they can touch things,” said Smith. “A lot of the reasons that antique sales have plummeted is because people have been told not to touch things. I encourage kids to play with these toys.” Smith even demonstrates to children who come in with their parents how black lights react with some of the glass, rocks and other treasures.

Smith expressed her excitement about owning the store on Gentile. “This area is being revitalized,” she said. “The community support has been amazing. People are very positive and have been welcoming.”

Smith also does her best to reach back into the community to show her support. She frequently helps the homeless in the area by finding them food from local places, such as soup and bread. She also keeps gently used blankets around for those who need help staying warm as it gets colder. 

“Not only are my items to be treasured again, but I also want the same for my employees and customers,” said Smith. She also said that finding stuff for the stores is like finding warm memories. “These moments and pieces are priceless. I adore the opportunity to stir someone’s soul with nostalgic items.”

Smith goes out of her way to make sure all of her employees are cared for. While she only has one full-time employee, Smith works with others in the community as well. “I work with some ladies who are retired so that they feel treasured again,” said Smith. She also has a special needs man who helps out on Saturdays at the Gentile location in trade for items. Several of the employees work in trade. “Antiques are coming back because they are made to last, and they are of wonderful value. I want my employees to feel the same way.”