Drakes open second store in downtown
By Angie Landsverk
The owners of a downtown Waupaca store have opened a second shop on the same block.
“This seemed like a perfect opportunity. We’ve loved being part of downtown with things we love and know other people love as well,” said Michele Drake.
Drake and her husband Tim recently opened Northern Home at 119 N. Main St.
It is near Lucky Tree, the shop they have had at 113 N. Main St. for eight years.
She said they had been interested in opening a second shop.
“We had the concept ready to go, but the opportunity hadn’t presented itself,” Drake said.
They found their opportunity when Anita Olson retired earlier this year.
The Drakes spent February through April turning Olson’s former Embellishments space into Northern Home.
They painted neutral colors on the walls, added a brick accent on one side and an electric fireplace as well.
The counter was reoriented and painted.
“The vision for this store is more of an outdoorsy approach,” Drake said. “We’re wanting to connect with why people love the northwoods, why people love coming to Waupaca.”
That is why they chose “Northern Home” for its name.
“A lot of people who live here love the outdoors,” she said.
By the store’s front door is information about hiking, biking, fishing and camping opportunities.
A Wisconsin map and a U.S. map are also in that area.
The Drakes want customers to note where they are from by placing a pin on the spot.
“We’re looking forward to seeing what it looks like at the end of summer,” she said.
Northern Home features items made out of natural materials.
Drake said the only thing made out of plastic is the outdoor furniture they carry.
It is made in the United States out of recycled plastic. There are about 20 color choices.
The store has books for people of all ages, with about 100 different titles.
The topics are related to nature, outdoor activities and conservation.
“I had so much fun picking these out because it is the kind of stuff I love,” Drake said.
She said both of their families have a rich Scouting and outdoor ministry heritage.
“Tim and I met at a camp,” she said. “Between the two of us, we have over 30 years of camp experience – camp administration, leadership and program development.
Their new store has cards, field notes, natural bug sprays, trek poles, compasses, lightsticks and actual reindeer antlers with bottle openers on the end.
Customers also find vintage gum and candy, linens, goat milk soaps and lotions, beeswax candles, jewelry, rugs, T-shirts, bags, backpacks and Minnetonka sandals and slippers.
“We want people to know we’re looking for ideas and suggestions – if they’re looking for a particular product in the store or if there are things they really like. We’re looking for feedback over the summer,” Drake said.
Northern Home’s summer hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday.