It is only fitting that Bob and Mona Deden were chosen to be the Mall’s first Featured Dealers. Bob and Mona selected their current booth space before the Mall even opened back in October, 1992 and they have been there ever since. Their booth number is 141 and it’s just north and west of the main sales counter. Bob and Mona also have a picture gallery on the wall in the coffee corner where some of their fabulous art work is displayed.
When asked about their experiences at Colorado Antique Gallery, Bob said, “One of the really nice aspects of being a dealer at the Mall is the many acquaintances and friendships you make. There are really a lot of nice people in the antique business. Going to the Mall for us is akin to “Cheers” where everybody knows your name. We have experienced some highs and lows from a sales standpoint, which anyone in this business can identify with. But the fun and challenges of antiquing far outweigh any downside.”
Bob is more the collector than Mona. This includes clocks, Red Wing Pottery (they both grew up in Red Wing, Minnesota) paper collectables, inkwells, Lladros, etc. This has been helped along by their living in Germany and Bob’s visits to more than 50 countries during his career in International Sales.
Bob feels that collecting can be a true adventure. “Many times ‘the hunt’ is just as much fun as building a collection. Almost everyone likes to collect something, and it seems nothing is exempt when it comes to collecting these days. That is one reason we feel that the Colorado Antique Gallery, with over 275 dealers, is good place to shop because you will not only find a wide range of ever-changing merchandise, but where there is most always ‘something for everyone’.”
“Len Duffey has put together a top notch Antique Mall that compares well with any you might find anywhere; and the staff from Glenda on down do a terrific job of supporting the dealers and helping customers in a friendly way.”
If you are not already familiar with the Deden’s collection it’s a “must see” the next time you’re shopping the Mall. The overall quality and uniqueness is exceptional.
Stay tuned for future Featured Dealers that will give more insights into antiquing and their personal experiences at Colorado Antique Gallery.