This Fort Wayne area vintage shop opened a new coffee + books cafe

As someone who enjoys historic architecture and vintage shopping, I (Kara) have had several friends tell me to check out The Shops at The Sanctuary in Columbia City, just Southwest of Fort Wayne. It’s an 1892 church that a Fort Wayne couple, Retta and Ben Yoder, turned into a two-storey vendor mall, filled with everything from handcrafted furniture and home goods to one-of-a-kind vintage art, decor, clothing and more.

After becoming a regular shopper last year, I decided to open my own booth at The Sanctuary this spring (while getting into thrifting and redoing furniture as part of renovating my house). So when I found out Retta, Ben and their team were opening a new coffee and reading cafe this spring in the basement of this amazing space, I couldn’t resist the opportunity to partner and share their story in The Local – with a special deal.

In April, we’re partnering with The Shops at The Sanctuary in Columbia City to bring all paid subscribers to The Local a BOGO coffee drink at their new cafe and reading room, 1892 Coffee & Books. (Learn how to claim your offer here.)

We sat down with Owner Retta Yoder to learn more.

The Local: Tell us about your background and what inspired you to open The Shops at The Sanctuary? 

RY: Some passions are planted early… and mine began long before I ever opened a shop door. I’ve always had a love for decorating—creating spaces that feel warm, meaningful, and lived in. It’s in my roots. I grew up watching my mom run a resale store for over 30 years, learning firsthand how a space (and the pieces within it) can tell a story. 

After graduating from high school in Fremont, Indiana, I attended the University of St. Francis in Fort Wayne, where I studied art education, interior design, and special education. I spent a few years teaching, pouring into others… until life asked me to pause. When my oldest child became ill, everything changed. After his passing, I stepped away to grieve, to heal, and to reassess what life would look like moving forward. 

In those years, life continued to shape me—through two adoptions, a divorce, and finding strength I didn’t know I had. Eventually, I followed that quiet pull back to what I’ve always loved. I opened my first store, Not Too Shabby, in Angola, Indiana—on the mound. It was more than a shop… it was a new beginning. A few years later, I met my husband, Ben Yoder. After we were married, I made the decision to close my shop in Angola. We knew we wanted something different… something meaningful… a space that felt as special as the experience we hoped to create. And then, as if it was meant to be, a church went up for sale. Not just any building—but one filled with history, character, and beautiful stained glass that felt like it was waiting for a second life. We didn’t just see a building… we saw a vision. A place where people could gather, slow down, feel welcome, and maybe even find a little piece of joy to take home with them. And that’s where the next chapter began… 

The Local: What inspired you to open 1892 Coffee & Books, and when did the work begin? 

RY: The inspiration for 1892 Coffee & Books came from a deep love of creating spaces where people feel at home — places that invite you to slow down, connect, and stay awhile. After transforming the church into The Shops @ The Sanctuary, we saw firsthand how much people craved not just shopping, but an experience… somewhere they could gather, relax, and feel a sense of belonging. Coffee and books felt like the natural next chapter. 

There’s something timeless about sitting with a good book and a warm drink, and we wanted to create a space that carried that same warmth and intention—where stories could be shared, conversations could happen, and quiet moments could be enjoyed. The idea for 1892 Coffee & Books began to take shape as we continued to grow The Shops @ The Sanctuary, but the real work started in late 2025 as we began planning, designing, and bringing the vision to life. Every detail has been thoughtfully considered to make it feel cozy, welcoming, and full of character—just like the building that holds it. 

The Local: Share your vision for 1892 Coffee & Books: the name, the menu and more!

RY: The vision for 1892 Coffee & Books is simple at its heart — to create a space where people can slow down, feel at home, and stay awhile. We wanted it to be more than just a coffee shop. It’s a place where stories are shared, friendships are built, and quiet moments are just as valued as conversation. Whether you’re meeting a friend, opening a new book, or just taking a breath in the middle of a busy day, 1892 is meant to feel like a retreat. The name “1892” is a nod to history and legacy. The building itself was built in 1892. It reflects the timeless character of the building and the idea that stories—both old and new—live within these walls. Just like books carry history forward, this space is about honoring the past while creating something meaningful for today. 

As for what we’ll serve, you can expect thoughtfully crafted coffee drinks—from classic espresso and lattes to seasonal specialties—along with teas, fresh lemonade, and other simple, comforting beverages. Our food offerings will focus on light, cozy options like pastries, baked goods, and small bites that pair perfectly with a good book or conversation. 

Whenever possible, we hope to incorporate items made in-house, adding a personal and homemade touch. We also love supporting others, so you’ll see a mix of locally sourced goods and partnerships with talented bakers and makers. It’s important to us that what we serve reflects the same care and creativity found throughout The Shops @ The Sanctuary. The atmosphere will be warm, inviting, and full of character—soft seating, the glow of natural light through stained glass, shelves of books, and little details that make you want to linger. It’s a space designed to feel both peaceful and alive… where everyone who walks in feels like they belong. 

The Local: The space itself for The Sanctuary and the coffeehouse is so beautiful and unique. Tell us more about the architecture of the building, how old it is, and how you renovated it.

RY: The space that now holds both The Shops @ The Sanctuary and 1892 Coffee & Books is truly one of a kind—and that’s what first drew us in. The building itself dates back to the late 1800s (1892) and was originally a church, full of history, gothic craftsmanship, and character that simply can’t be recreated today. From the moment we walked in, we were captivated by the soaring ceilings, original woodwork, and, of course, the stunning stained glass windows that fill the space with warmth and color throughout the day. 

When we purchased the building in May 2021, our goal was never to erase its past, but to honor it. The renovation process was done thoughtfully and intentionally. Rather than completely transforming the space, we worked to preserve as many of the original architectural elements as possible. The stained glass became a centerpiece. The open layout of the sanctuary allowed us to create a unique shopping experience while still maintaining the feeling of the original space. Every decision was made with respect for what the building had been, while gently reimagining what it could become. Blending old with new became our guiding vision—keeping the soul of the church intact while introducing warmth, texture, and curated details that invite people in and make them feel comfortable. 

Now, the building lives on in a new way. What was once a place of gathering and reflection has become just that again—only in a different form. It’s still a place where people come together, slow down, and feel something special the moment they walk through the doors. 

The Local: Tell us more about the "books" portion of the coffee shop. 

RY: The “books” portion of 1892 Coffee & Books is something very close to my heart. It’s not just about selling books; it’s about creating a space where stories live, where people can slow down, and where connection happens in a quiet, meaningful way. My vision is to offer a thoughtfully curated selection of books for all ages—stories that inspire, comfort, challenge, and bring joy. From timeless classics to children’s books, devotionals, and a mix of modern reads, each title will be chosen with intention. I want people to walk in and feel like they’ve discovered something special… maybe even a book they didn’t know they needed. It’s also about the experience. The bookstore will be woven into the atmosphere of the coffeehouse—cozy corners, comfortable seating, and spaces that invite you to sit with a cup of coffee and get lost in a story. It won’t feel rushed or transactional. It will feel peaceful, welcoming, and personal. Looking ahead, I would love for the space to become a place for community and connection—hosting book clubs, small gatherings, readings, and events that bring people together over a shared love of stories. At its core, the “books” side of 1892 Coffee & Books is about more than reading—it’s about creating moments. Moments of rest, reflection, imagination, and connection… all within a space that feels like home. 

The Local: Any tips for first-time visitors to The Shops at The Sanctuary or 1892 Coffee & Books?

RY: If it’s your first time visiting The Shops @ The Sanctuary or 1892 Coffee & Books, my biggest tip is this — don’t rush. This isn’t a place meant to be hurried through. Take your time, wander a little, and let yourself discover things. Every booth, every corner, and every detail has something unique to offer, and some of the best finds are the ones you didn’t come in looking for. 

At The Shops, I always recommend doing a full walk-through first, then going back to the pieces that caught your eye. There’s so much creativity from our vendors, and it’s worth soaking it all in before making a decision. 

When it comes to 1892 Coffee & Books, definitely treat yourself. Start with a classic latte or one of our seasonal specialty drinks—something warm and comforting that you can sip while you explore. Pair it with a fresh-baked good or pastry (those are always a must-try), and if you’re in the mood for something refreshing, our lemonade and teas are perfect too. And of course… pick up a book. Even if you didn’t plan to. Sit for a few minutes, flip through the pages, and just enjoy the moment. 

If I had to give one “must-do,” it would be this: find a cozy spot, coffee in hand, and just be. Whether you’re alone or with friends, that’s what this space was created for. Come as you are, stay as long as you’d like, and leave feeling just a little more inspired than when you walked in.