05/31/2026
I have known Lauren now for several years. Family. Music. Human connection. Those are the things that matter most to Lauren.
For the past ten years, she's owned Ten Years Gone Vintage on Springfield's Commercial Street, creating a space filled with art, music, conversation, and community.
"Part of me says the most important thing in life is family because I have small children and they mean the absolute world to me. The other half says music because throughout life, without music I don't know if I'd be here today."
When I asked Lauren what she loves most about owning the store, her answer wasn't about selling things.
"In a world where we have so many online friends and everything social is on our phone, we miss making human connections and I love doing that."
Like many small business owners, Lauren has poured years of her life into something she believes in. She's experienced criticism, self-doubt, long hours, and the constant challenges that come with running an independent business. Yet she continues to show up every day, creating a place where people can gather, connect, and be themselves.
"What love means to me has changed throughout my life. We grow up thinking love is this fairytale. I've realized it's important to love yourself. Without that foundation, how are you supposed to give it to others?"
As our conversation came to a close, Lauren shared the advice she hopes others will remember:
"Find something you're good at and do it. Take the chance. We're the most adaptable creatures on this earth. The most important thing in this life is learning to love and be loved. Do the things you love, as long as you're making money and you're happy. But don't sacrifice one for the other."
Lauren and Willow at Ten Years Gone Vintage.
