Vacant storefront windows wrapped in brown paper are leaving shoppers wondering what’s going on? Ten small businesses are relocating, reopening, expanding, or starting a new venture in historic downtown Stayton.
What makes this neighborhood so special?
“Revitalize Downtown Stayton (RDS) has worked hard over the last six years to beautify our historic district,” noted Aaron Frichtl, president of RDS. “The recent movement to downtown is a strong indicator of its desirability. Entrepreneurs really enjoy the unique vibe of the old buildings, both inside and out.”
Entrepreneurs, Alan and Quonna Bender’s longtime dream is coming true. They purchased and are remodeling the Harold’s Jewelry building to relocate Wolfgang’s Thirst Parlor and Tap House, 403 N. Third Ave., opening soon! A comfortable, relaxed vibe with indoor seating overlooking the canal, covered outdoor seating and shuffleboard will make Wolfgang’s the place to meet for a craft beer, cider or a glass of wine.
For the sweet tooth, The Lovin’ Oven, 220 E. Ida St., is expanding their operations into the 1910 Spaniol’s building. The Spaniol family had owned this corner since 1905, but sold to Mike and Val Schultz in 2021. The building is in the middle of a complete overhaul. Expanding their bakery, The Lovin’ Oven will be serving desserts as well, converting this corner of town into a place bustling with activity.
Superheroes – A Super Sweet Shoppe, 239 N. Third Ave. is moving in, offering unique gummies, taffy, chocolates and gifts. Owner Cheryl O’Deay will have her hands full as she reopens, What the Quirk, a vintage emporium right next door. These double storefronts are located in one of Stayton’s first clay tile, commercial buildings built in the 1920s. Online shopping starts Feb. 1 with doors opening in March.
Pop culture arrives with Nick Coffey’s extensive vinyl record collection at Vinyl Vortex opening in February, inside Marketplace at the Grove, 351 N. Third Ave. This mall provides an opportunity for small and emerging retailers to launch a ‘brick and mortar’ storefront. Mellie Jane’s Rustics, recently opened and provides shoppers a look at the beautiful, detailed work of maker Melanie, in her home decor, accessories and gifts made of recycled leather and quality fabrics.
Windows are covered at 429. N Third Ave., too, while Jon and Teri Mesa shrink Moxieberry’s footprint and pare down the lunch menu. They will expand their grab’n’go menu, baked goods selection, retail gourmet foods and gifts. In the spring, the Mesa’s will open a new surprise boutique, right next door.
Two new photography studios opened recently in the rear of the Deidrich Building, at 252 E. Florence St. Think Good Things Photography specializes in children’s portraits and 1766 Aesthetics specializes in couples’ portraits and wedding photography.
This is only the beginning as other vacant buildings are ready to spring to life: three on Third Avenue plus one each on Marion Street, Second Avenue and Water Street.
Stay tuned for news. In the meantime, take the opportunity to “shop small, shop local” and connect with some of the business leaders in town.
By Julia Bochsler
Revitalize Downtown Stayton
