Our Story

Val Leachman has always loved consignment...

Valerie Leachman, owner and proprietor of The Way We Were loves the hunt and the joy that comes from finding that perfect piece to add to her wardrobe at an even more perfect price. With this lifelong love affair with clothing and fashion in mind, Valerie dreamed of opening her own consignment store for years. Then, in June of 2009, she decided – that time had come. Only two months later, her store was open for business!

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Val wanted to create a shop that provided a unique and fun shopping experience, where finding something that makes you feel beautiful is a breeze. She wanted the experience to feel like a treasure hunt – an adventure through a beautiful place with beautiful items.

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She chose the name The Way We Were, a nod to the glamourous days of the Golden Age of Hollywood, and what she imagines is the voice of the beautiful pieces she sells, asking to be loved again, given new life, and re-made into the way they were.

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After just one year in business, Valerie was awarded the Halton Hills Entrepreneur of the Year award. The Way We Were has since been a consistent recipient of local business awards for Best Consignment and Best Women’s Fashion. Her store has grown physically, from one to two levels, and now has five employees. 

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The Way We Were is Valerie’s passion, and she looks forward to continuing to help women of all shapes, sizes, and ages to look and feel their best.