RIBBON CUTTING … Sauder Village President and CEO Kiersten Latham cuts the ceremonial ribbon. In attendance were Sauder Village employees, Archbold Chamber of Commerce employees, and Village of Archbold officials.
By: Jacob Kessler
THE VILLAGE REPORTER
jacob@thevillagereporter.com
The newly renovated Museum Store at Sauder Village is open for business. The store celebrated its renovation with a ribbon cutting, through a partnership with the Archbold Chamber of Commerce. The cutting took place on Monday, April 8th at noon.
Sauder Village began its renovation of the store last year with an extremely important goal in mind. Reorganize the idea and thought of what a museum store is.
Sauder Village President and CEO Kiersten Latham explained that this reorganization needed to focus on celebrating the craftspeople, and local artisans through consignment, as well as ramping up traditional crafts.
Latham also explained that a significant portion, approximately 50%, has been dedicated to the arts and crafts made onsite at Sauder Village.
The other 50% is made up of souvenirs dedicated to Sauder Village, toys, candy, consignment items, and more. A special section even exists for campers who stay at the village.
“Everything in here makes sense to our mission. We are really wanting to make sure our craft people are highlighted. We are even doing more with signage to highlight the craftspeople and show who they are,” added Latham.
Assistant Manager of the Museum Store Donna Smith and Retail Manager of the Museum Store Karen Irelan also had words to say as it pertains to their excitement for the store.
Karen stated “It was very exciting. In the beginning, it was nerve-racking trying to get everything in order. But as time went on and I started to see everything happen, excitement started to build at that point.”
“One thing after another took place and it all started to come together. You are never too old to learn, and we have learned lots.”
Donna followed up with, “When they approached me about taking the position I was retired. Because of that I was hesitant but saw it as a challenge. I saw it as the opportunity to transition from a gift shop to a museum store that supports the mission, purpose, and education of what Sauder Village is all about.”
“We also had a lot of fun rearranging the store, taking all the craft items,
and displaying them on walls. I am very excited with how it has turned out. Seeing the finished project has been very rewarding and has been very exciting.”
The newly renovated Museum Store at Sauder Village is open and ready to serve. Now is the time to head on over and check out what the store has to offer.