Shopping for vintage treasures in Ventura County: Spotlight on The Vintage Peddler in Simi Valley

The Vintage Peddler, Simi Valley CAPhoto byTracy Carbone

There are several good antique stores in Ventura County but you have to know where to look. Penny Pinchers in Simi Valley was open over fifty years before it closed up shop a few years ago, marking a sad day in the city for collectors. Thankfully there are others to visit throughout the area, with three thriving ones right here in Simi Valley. This article will focus on one, The Vintage Peddler, with an upcoming article to highlight Shop Around the Corner and Aubergine Emporium.

In September of 2022, Tish Gamez, a Simi Valley resident, decided to invest locally and shift her retail focus. For eight years, she owned Sandpiper Books in Torrance. This store was successful, offered a large variety of books, and often hosted author signings. But the commute was long, and Tish wanted a change.

When The Home Unique closed in mid-2022 after many years, Tish took the opportunity to lease the space at 1750 E. Los Angeles Ave, Suite E, Simi Valley, CA to open The Vintage Peddler. Tish isn’t new to the antique business. She was the original owner of Shop Around the Corner before she sold it to open Sandpiper Books. Now she’s come full circle, selling antiques in Simi Valley again, alongside her long-time friend Harriet.

Owner Tish Gamez (right) and friend Harriet (left) at The Vintage Peddler in Simi Valley CAPhoto byTracy Carbone

Within months of opening her shop, all Tish’s booths were rented by vendors, with a waiting list for more to join. She’s often rearranging to make more space and add more interesting items and vendors. She currently has 25 vendors.

Walking in, you’ll see a throwback to her bookstore days with a large collection of antiquarian and current books.

The Vintage Peddler in Simi Valley CAPhoto byTracy Carbone

Off to the left there’s a charming section for children, with sample books to read, and a large collection of brand-new and vintage books, plus various stuffed toys and finger puppets. There's even a reading area for the kids to leaf through books and sample the toys.

The Vintage Peddler in Simi Valley CAPhoto byTracy Carbone

Her vendors’ booths' contents vary greatly and there’s something for every taste. Furniture, typewriters, chandeliers, clocks, and vintage toys and photos.

Antique toys at The Vintage Peddler in Simi Valley CAPhoto byTracy Carbone

New artwork by local artists, antique and vintage paintings and prints, greeting cards, magnets, lamps, sculptures...

booth at The Vintage Peddler in Simi Valley CAPhoto byTracy Carbone

Home décor, buttons, clothes…Much too much to list in one article with new inventory arriving often. A trip to The Vintage Peddler will provide a nice walk down memory lane, and you’re sure to enjoy the warmth and welcoming atmosphere.

The store is open Tuesday through Sunday 11-6.

collectible books at The Vintage Peddler in Simi Valley CAPhoto byTracy Carbone