18 hours ago3 min read

Discovering Olde Tyme Marketplace

Downtown Madison Home Goods, Gifts, Vintage, and Clothing Shop

Photo Credit to Lindsay Holley with Madison Main Street.

Beth Lewis, the owner of Olde Tyme Marketplace, has a remarkable story that began with a passion for handmade crafts and repurposing items to make them new again, eventually growing into one of Madison’s most beloved local businesses.

Her journey began right after high school when Beth started selling handmade items in a local craft shop. “I went in one day and the owner at the time said she was closing,” explained Lewis. “I asked her if she could give me her landlord’s information.” From there, Beth secured her new building with the previous owner’s consignors. This was a leap of faith for Beth, who, despite lacking experience in the business world, was full of hope and a willingness to learn and succeed.

Photo Credit to Lindsay Holley with Madison Main Street.

After 30 years of building her business, brand, and connections, Beth had the opportunity to relocate her business from North Carolina to Madison. On April 5, 2019, Olde Tyme Marketplace opened at 801 W Main Street. Beth’s shop quickly became a Madison favorite with its carefully curated selection of beautiful gifts and home goods.

“I was inspired to start my business out of a love for creating. I loved making crafts and recycling items. I really enjoyed merchandising the shop and creating displays,” said Beth. Her creativity shines throughout the shop, where each display is not only aesthetically pleasing but thoughtfully organized, with goods and gifts that complement each other.

Photo Credit to Lindsay Holley with Madison Main Street.

“My favorite part of the day-to-day operations are the unexpected joys,” Beth shared. “The people you meet, the unexpected sale of a fabulous piece, the conversations with other business owners, and the sense of community within town.” Beth’s warm presence ensures that every customer feels like an old friend, and she is always eager to support her fellow businesses in Downtown Madison

Photo Credit to Lindsay Holley with Madison Main Street.

Olde Tyme Marketplace offers a wide variety of products, with something for everyone. Beth continually refreshes her inventory with new deliveries and displays to keep the shop vibrant and exciting. Home décor and floral arrangements are particularly popular, with customers often praising the shop for having the best faux florals in town. Soy candles in scents like “Christmas in Madison,” “Bourbon & Apple,” and “Riverwalk” are also big hits. The shop’s clothing and accessories, available in sizes small to 3XL, provide both comfort and style, while other offerings like pillows, pottery, and purses create the perfect variety for gift shopping for someone else or- yourself!

Photo Credit to Lindsay Holley with Madison Main Street.

The private-label pantry foods are a must-try, including salsas, pickled products, and special dip mixes. “And if you haven’t tried our Donkey Chips… well, you are missing out!” Beth warns with a smile.

“My favorite products we sell are all the vintage items that I source through picking, thrifting, or antiquing,” Beth says. She also has an exciting announcement for 2025: the shop will soon offer European goods, giving customers the chance to explore new and unique products. Stay tuned!

Photo Credit to Lindsay Holley with Madison Main Street.

Reflecting on her journey as a business owner, Beth recalls many memorable moments. She has celebrated both successes and challenges, each providing valuable lessons. “It always humbles me when someone who follows our social media accounts plans a trip that includes Olde Tyme Marketplace,” Beth shared. “We’ve met so many people who have come to Madison from all over the country!” While the recognition and awards, including the 2023 Madison Main Street Program Business Excellence Award, are gratifying, they serve as a reminder of just how far she’s come and how much further she hopes to go.

“I look forward to still learning, creating, and exploring new opportunities, but most of all, serving my community that I am so thankful for,” said Beth. Her unwavering support for the community and her fellow business owners contributes to making Madison a wonderful place to work and live!

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