By Barbie Porter

Editor

Vergas will soon be welcoming The Lavish Loon, a new retail business on Main Street. Sarah Wacker is hoping to open by early spring.

“I take possession of the building on April 1,” she said. “I’m trying to be organized and plan ahead so once I get in the building I can get up and running.”

The Lavish Loon will specialize in lake and Minnesota-themed gear, as well as some miscellaneous clothing items.

“I was in retail for 20 years, and have met some of my favorite people at work,” Wacker said. 

The idea of opening her own store is not new, but she opted to put her family ahead of her career until her children were a bit older.

“Now the kids are at the right age, and everything fell into place, it seemed like this was the right time,” she said. “With COVID, some may feel it is risky, but I think positive things are ahead.”

Wacker considered different locations, but was drawn to Vergas. She grew up in rural Vergas and has many fond childhood memories of the area.

The 1997 Perham High School graduate recalled visiting Goodman’s SuperMarket for an ice cream cone after swimming at the city beach. 

“I also remember visiting all the fun shops,” the daughter of Steve and Karla Kneip said. “This town is so progressive and has become a destination.”

Adding to the shops that offer unique items and the restaurants that offer a variety of meals, will be The Lavish Loon. Wacker said she intends to stay open late, so those coming to town for a bite to eat, after a day on the lake, also have an opportunity to have fun shopping.

While Wacker is hoping for a warm welcome by patrons, she has already received such a greeting from Vergas business owners. She said several have introduce themselves, offered support and express excitement that a new shop would be opening on the main drag of the bustling town.

The shop will be located next door to American Beauty Salon, a business Wacker has frequented for years.

“It is a comfy space, and once the sign is up it will be easy to find,” she said.

Wacker and her husband Tom, who also grew up in rural Vergas, have three children. She said her family has been very supportive of the idea, and bringing her dream to a reality. 

“It’s been in the works for a few years now,” she said. “Any time I’ve started to second guess myself, everything would fall into place.”

While opening day may be several weeks off, Wacker said she looks forward to opening her storefront for the first time and meeting the community and its visitors.