While many retail shops in Grass Valley have come and gone over the past 13 years, Ragtime remains.

When asked the reason for her store’s longevity, owner Darlene Sanders says, “One of the main reasons we are still here is that women have so much fun while shopping at Ragtime. And word gets around!”

Originally from Canada, Sanders earned her fashion, marketing, dressmaking and style chops early, working for both the Royal Winnipeg and the Joffrey Ballet in the wardrobe department, skilled at alterations and last-minute styling for dance productions. She learned to sew expertly and make patterns, leading to a specialized knowledge in fit and fabrics. Eventually she moved to San Francisco, where she applied her knowledge of marketing for the bio-tech and high tech industries, before specializing in marketing for the huge Embarcadero Center, a complex of 40 stores and restaurants. In this iteration, she planned and executed major fashion shows and events.

During this time, Sanders also made her own jewelry out of stained Wasser glass and glass beads, ultimately exhibiting and selling it at trunk shows for Nordstrom department store.

“Finally,” says Sanders, “I had to make a decision. The jewelry-making was like adding another full time job to one I already had. It was nothing for me to work all day and then make jewelry late into the night. I had to stop.”

After many trips to Nevada County and falling in love with its beauty and lifestyle, Sanders and her husband decided to leave the big city.

She never intended to retire, though.

“I came up here with the specific intent of opening a consignment shop,” she says.

Shortly after settling in she purchased Ragtime on Main Street. From the beginning, she intended it to be not just a store, but a fashion experience.

“I actually dress customers,” she says. “I will put them together with a whole outfit, from dress or pants and blouse, to jewelry, shoes and even a handbag. I often have women come in saying they have an event and just don’t know what to wear. And I will help them put the whole thing together.”

No doubt Sanders’ long-ago experience in styling and design makes this possible.

“The smile on a customer’s face makes the whole thing worthwhile,” she says. “Sometimes a few of us will get to talking — about clothes, politics, health, whatever — that makes it more like ‘hanging out’ than shopping.”

One of Sanders’ long-time customers calls her the most fun-loving person ever, with great taste and amazing finds in her store.

“Everything I find there is always unique,” she says.

In addition to Sanders’ regular local customers who call often to see what has newly arrived, she has quite a few out-of-towners who return year after year.

“Two of my customers who have been friends with each other for over 40 years always visit once a year,” she said. “One is from Texas and the other from Vacaville. I close the shop for them and we make a day-long event out of it.”

Though Ragtime is a consignment store, Sanders stresses that she accepts only top quality clothing in excellent, clean condition, and new or worn-only-once shoes. Designer items from such manufacturers as Eileen Fisher that originally retailed for $350 can be found here for $75, purses from designers such as Louis Vuitton and Coach are priced at $95, for example. Sanders also features jewelry both vintage and new, including pieces made of sterling silver, costume jewelry and necklaces, bracelets and earrings with semi-precious stones. And for those wishing to spend less?

“I have plenty of choices for them too,” says Sanders.

Those wishing to consign items must call for an appointment and expect a split of 60/40. The store is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. What advice would Sanders give to a new store owner?

“It’s like any relationship,” she says. “You have to be dedicated because there are highs and lows so you mustn’t get discouraged. It’s also important to be organized and to keep your records in order. You have to love this business but don’t forget to take time off for yourself. When you return, your whole outlook is refreshed. I’m about the bigger picture,” stresses Sanders. “I want Ragtime to be a good addition to the town. I am always recommending local restaurants to customers. And if they can’t find what they’re looking for here, I gladly send them off to other clothing and jewelry stores in town. That’s what makes a community.”

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