How, when, and why did you start your business?

We opened The Local in July 2017. I, Alison, was a stay at home mom turned crafter and began going to markets throughout our area. After doing that for about a year, we felt there was a need for the Maker community to showcase their amazing goods in a more permanent setting. After many long discussions and prayers, The Local was born. We are truly passionate about sharing the maker's products and stories with all of our customers and are committed to bringing you the best of what Wisconsin and the midwest has to offer. We hope to always inspire and encourage you to follow your biggest + craziest dreams and know, without a doubt, that you can do anything you set your mind to!

What makes your business unique?

The Local carries over ninety Midwest Small Businesses goods. When you shop with us you are truly making a difference. At each of our locations and on our website you will find a "Meet the Makers" board where you are able to put a face to who creates all of the products we carry in our shops. We feel building that connection creates a stronger community and helps spread the awareness of supporting small businesses.

What product/service is your most popular, or what are you are known for?

We are probably most known for our Wisconsin themed items - I mean who doesn't love a good ol' WI tee or mug? But really when you stop into our shops you can feel the love that is poured into each of the products we carry, it's truly the best feeling!

Why did you locate your business in the Wausau River District?

We were sitting outside The Mint one night during Concert on the Square and the space, now our shop, was vacant. Alison said to Bryan how beautiful that space was and how amazing it would be to have a business there...low and behold here we are! The liveliness of the downtown area, the events that are held and the amazing small businesses that make up the River District are so amazing!! It is an honor to  be a part of it all.

What motivates you?

Our kids. They are a huge part of why we took the leap in the first place. We want to teach them that no dream is too big! And also the makers we work with, their stories are so inspiring. Each one coming from different walks of life but all having one thing in common and that is using their God-given talents to create joy for others.

How do you measure/define success?

By the lives that we touch. If we are spreading happiness and helping others succeed we know we are doing okay.

How do you generate new ideas?

We love going to other cities and enjoying their local businesses and events. Surrounding ourselves with inspiration helps new ideas come to life.

Talk about your staff.

Our staff is truly the best! We wouldn't be where we are today without each of them. They all share the passion we have for supporting the small business community, along with sharing the maker's products and stories to our supporters. We encourage you to stop in and chat with them, we can guarantee you will love them as much as we do!

What excites you most about the future of the district?

The Wausau River District is continuously evolving and as we said before, we just love being a part of it all!