Steve Molina and Gretchen Davey pose inside their vintage store, which opened in early December. In addition to clothing, tiki-themed items and mid-century modern deals, the couple also offers a strong collection of Disney memorabilia, which pays homage to their history as Disney fans and how they first met while both working at Disneyland.
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Groovy Ghost Vintage
Another antique store joins the Plaza, this time owned by industry veterans and married couple Gretchen Davey and Steve Molina, who also operate a stand in the Orange Circle Antique Mall. Groovy Ghost Vintage opened in the beginning of December and is home to all types of retro, 1960s and 1970s-inspired vintage items.
“We have a good footprint right now at the antique mall, but Gretchen felt like this was the right decision, and I’m so glad I listened to her,” says Molina. “This has been hectic but also so fun. We’re blessed to be in a business we genuinely enjoy.”
Although the challenge of creating their own store seemed daunting at first, the duo ultimately felt it was the right decision. The turnaround happened quickly, and it took less than two months from first hearing about the opportunity to the space being open to shoppers.
“Less than a week after opening, we had so many people from the community come and introduce themselves,” says Davey. “They’re so excited to see another vintage shop. It has been really nice to meet all these new people who now know us through our own store.”
In addition to retro and 1960s and 1970s-themed inventory, Groovy Ghost Vintage offers other treasures, including mid-century modern items, tiki themed collectibles and clothing. Customers will also find a good selection of records that were inherited after the location’s previous business departed.
With this storefront, Davey and Molina have set themselves a goal of upholding Old Towne’s existing antique store reputation.
“Antique stores have existed for such a long time here, and that’s what the footprint is in the Plaza,” says Molina. “We want to help keep that reputation of Orange and help these types of stores exist along with the restaurants. We want to keep the spirit of vintage alive here.”
The couple were thoughtful with their business name and created it to embody their vision of revitalizing vintage items.
“When I was coming up with a name, I started combining words and felt using ‘groovy’ and ‘ghost’ was perfect for us,” says Davey. “There’s an idea in vintage that we’re giving it new life, so it’s like the ghost of the past.”
While they work on the lofty goal of keeping the antique store spirit alive in Old Towne, they’re also looking forward to the day-to-day experience of working in their passion, with each other.
“There’s so much excitement in this job, but what I love most is doing this with my wife,” says Molina. “We’ve always been there for each other and we love what we do.”
Groovy Ghost Vintage
160 North Glassell St., Old Towne Orange, CA 92866 / 714-837-1080
