To The Haldimand Press
DUNNVILLE—For 15 years, Sweet Retro-Spect’s signature aroma of freshly-made popcorn has enticed and welcomed guests from near and far, as they searched – and found – a little piece of happiness with a trip down memory lane. To celebrate the anniversary, the specialty shop is hosting a two-day fundraising celebration on December 2 and 3, 2022, collecting donations of non-perishable food and unwrapped toys for Dunnville’s Salvation Army and monetary donations for Edgewater Gardens.
Founder and Owner Michele Reynolds will be rewarding everyone who makes a donation. Those who donate an item to the Salvation Army will be entered for a chance to win a $150 Sweet Retro-Spect gift card, while those who make a $5 or greater donation to Edgewater Gardens will be given a free large popcorn.
“People need help now more than ever, with food bank use rising to the highest levels in Canada this year. And, we can’t forget our long-term care facilities. Our customers have big hearts, so I can’t wait to see what we can accomplish together over the two days,” said Reynolds.
For 15 years, Sweet Retro-Spect has given its shoppers a warm and welcoming place to laugh and have fun. Its offerings include retro candy, British and American candy bars, local chocolate and fudge, fresh popcorn, and a selection of old-fashioned toys, collectibles, risqué gifts, and cards.
Inspiration first struck for Sweet Retro-Spect while Reynolds was on a shopping trip with friends. She stepped into a store that had a small retro candy section, and it brought her so much joy thinking about the treats she and her parents and sisters used to enjoy.
“I was instantly transported back to all these great, warm memories,” explained Reynolds. “Over a year later, I was still thinking about that experience. I researched what would be involved in creating an entire shop filled with nostalgia. I wanted it to be a feel-good store, a place where you could go on a bad day and instantly feel better – and now, that’s what my customers experience! They love talking to our wonderful staff, listening to the music, showing their kids or grandkids the candy they used to eat as a child, and having a laugh.”
After opening in 2007, it quickly became a local favourite and a shopping destination for out-of-towners. Known for its warm, inclusive environment and its friendly staff, the shop loves supporting the community and is always adding new products, like the latest creative confection: chocolate-dipped Twinkies.
Sweet Retro-Spect’s 15th Anniversary Fundraising Celebration runs on Friday December 2 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday, December 3 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. at 170 Queen Street, Dunnville, with full details posted on their Facebook page.
