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New Vendor Spotlight: Say Hello to JoRetro!

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Karen J. Kelty | Editor-in-Chief

Step into the world of vintage charm and nostalgic treasures with Jolene Forrester, the creative force behind JoRetro, where she celebrates the timeless beauty of Pyrex and vintage finds. At Hey, Joni., we have a soft spot for all things vintage and vintage-inspired, so we’re especially thrilled to carry some of Jolene’s creations, like her adorable tea towels featuring iconic Pyrex prints. These pieces bring a touch of retro magic into your kitchen and honor the past in a stylish, functional way. In this spotlight, we get to know Jolene’s journey as a female entrepreneur, her love for Pyrex, and the heartfelt stories that fuel her growing business.

Collage featuring Jolene, founder of JoRetro, with her cat, Loki, along with images of her vintage-inspired shop, JoRetro. Highlights include colorful Pyrex dishes, Pyrex-themed tea towels, a sign for the Pyrex & Vintage Fest, and a vintage Pyrex sticker. The central text reads "Meet Our Maker JoRetro" with the Hey, Joni. logo below, showcasing JoRetro’s nostalgic, retro charm and Jolene's passion for vintage collectibles.

Meet Jolene

Born in: Havre de Grace, Maryland
Still Resides in: Havre de Maryland — I’m passionate about my hometown and improving the downtown shopping areas.
Birthday: March 1st
Sign: Pieces
Fun fact: I found my cat Loki 8 years ago on a Pyrex Pick in VA. He was a stray hanging around the property. When loading my jeep he jumped in like he was ready to go home!

Q&A

How do you choose which Pyrex patterns or designs to feature in your products? Are there any fan-favorites that you love working with?

I choose the most nostalgic Pyrex designs that were produced the longest. Or my favorite color turquoise. I’ve always said that Pyrex Butterprint is the gateway drug to collecting…lol, but truly we try to create a variety of different color designs that appeal to everyone.

What has surprised you the most about the Pyrex community? Have you found any unique or touching stories from collectors?

Collectors are so friendly and helpful. Pyrex is nostalgic, decorative and useful. The surprising part is how many people connect with each other as friends and continue to share and sell year after year. Our biannual Pyrex & Vintage Fest brings collectors together from across the country sharing their love of vintage Pyrex. I’ve had customers tear up when seeing a dish they remembered from their childhood.

How do you incorporate vintage products into your modern lifestyle? 

I prefer quality over quantity and I’m a bit of a minimalist at home. So many vintage items are superior to products made today. We have four Airbnbs over our shop. Each is designed with a nice mix of vintage and luxury new products to make your visit special.

A stylish, modern kitchen with dark gray walls, a herringbone-patterned wood floor, and industrial decor. The space features a large white island with wooden stools, black pendant lights hanging above, and open shelving showcasing vintage yellow Pyrex dishes. A cozy dining area with a round wooden table and black wicker chairs is visible to the left, while a potted plant and woven wall hanging add warmth to the minimalist aesthetic.

A spacious, modern living room with industrial decor and retro touches. The room features a large tan leather sectional sofa with patterned throw pillows, a cowhide rug, and a glass coffee table with books and decorative items. A black leather accent chair sits in the corner, and the ceiling has exposed ductwork and a metallic finish. The dining area and kitchen are visible in the background, with herringbone-patterned flooring, pendant lighting, and open shelving displaying vintage items, creating a warm, stylish, and inviting atmosphere.

A peek inside Jolene’s Retro Boho Loft, one of the Airbnb’s above her Maryland shop.  

Mad Libs, You Glow Girl Edition

Ask me about Pyrex — I never get tired of sharing about it!

I need more travel with Vintage Picking in my life.

And less sugar.

RN, I’m LOVING visits from my family.

My favorite way to unwind is watch Netflix with my husband.

This year, my focus is on growing my wholesale business.

Advice I’d give to my 10-year-old self: You don’t need to be good in math to be successful.

Advice I’d give a bestie who’s going through a rough patch: It’s okay to feel sad or upset, just don’t make your whole day about that. Find something new and exciting to focus on.

In a world of normal be unique.

Helping other Shopkeepers grow their business is healing.

When I’m feeling stuck, I talk to my sister.

You’d be surprised to learn I’m obsessed with interior design projects.

My Mantra rn is if it’s not scary it’s probably not worth doing!

The Pyrex & Vintage Fest in downtown Havre de Grace, Maryland.

Jolene’s Recommendations

To Read: Unreasonable Hospitality: The Remarkable Power of Giving People More Than They Expect by Will Guidara

To Listen: Savvy Shopkeeper Retail Podcast

To Watch: Minimalism: A Documentary About the Important Things

To Follow:

Connect with Jolene

Website: https://www.joretro.com/
Instagram: @JoRetro

Jolene’s passion for preserving vintage culture shines through everything she does, from her carefully curated Pyrex pieces to her welcoming Airbnbs. If you’re feeling inspired, be sure to check out Jolene’s charming tea towels featuring nostalgic Pyrex prints—available now in our Gift Shop. Bring a piece of retro joy into your home and celebrate the stories behind these iconic designs!

Comments

One response to “New Vendor Spotlight: Say Hello to JoRetro!”

  1. Patti Sparks Avatar
    Patti Sparks

    OUTSTANDING…