Jul 24, 2013

Old Time Candy Store Satisfies More Than a Sweet ToothBy Amy M. CrowtherChicagoTribune.com

Berwyn, IL – Entrepreneur Tracy Balnis is a self-proclaimed old-fashioned girl who went on a mission to revive the past. Her vision for a shop reminiscent of the penny candy stores of her youth started last summer and came full circle with the grand opening celebration of her new shop, Rissi’s Old Time Candy & Toys, at 6834 W Windsor Avenue (rissisoldtimecandyandtoys.blogspot.com) in Berwyn’s Depot District. The store officially opened in December 2012, and a ribbon cutting was held in conjunction with the City of Berwyn and the Berwyn Development Corporation (BDC) on June 26.

Rissi’s is a vintage candy and toy store, selling candy by the piece or weight and promising good old-fashioned fun. Store offerings also include hand-made chocolates, a line of coffee drinks, Filbert’s old time draft sodas, shaved ice novelties, and classic toys. Entering the store is an instant blast from the past. Patrons are greeted with Tracy’s warm smile, a vintage table and chairs, bright pink checkerboard floor, an antique “Wonder Horse” rocking horse, archetypal coca cola signs, and more. Embracing the present, Rissi’s also offers free wi-fi.

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