There is a pair of life-long friends in Dannebrog, Nebraska, actually sisters-in-law, who are finally free enough to spend time together like they'd wanted all along. In the old days JoAnne Kroger and Marleen Casperson were so busy raising families, and all that goes with that, to have time to just be friends, have fun and make pretty things. But now, the lucky Dannebrog duo has time to live, time to play, and time to create.
Have you heard of the River Shack yet? Although the name doesn't give a clue about what's inside, it is located in plain sight of the river and located at 1358 Highway 59 in Dannebrog. When you set aside time to visit, you will be amazed as soon as you open the front door. For those who haven't yet ventured into the River Shack (it's not really as ramshackled as you might have anticipated!) is a shop of the most unusual kind. Looking for a creative, one-of-a-kind item? They've got it. How about a gift for a loved one or a special occasion? Marleen and JoAnne have that covered, too.
The little shop near the river also carries rustic lamps, handmade jewelry, interesting home decor items, outdoor furniture to grace your yard, and a whole lot more.
According to Marleen, their new ventureopened in December 2007 came about quite naturally. After many months of making and presenting gifts at craft shows, they decided they'd like to do more and have a permanent site of their own. Mrs. Casperson shared that because they both like making craft items and shopping for craft materials and unique gifts, they agreed to start "a place where people come to see us." Ever sensitive to the wants of their customers, now they fill some unexpected needs. Although the women didn't anticipate them, they now hold home parties, some right there at the River Shack, but others are held in the homes of their customers. Truly this inventive pair aims to please their public.
Because JoAnne and Marleen have full, active lives, including husbands, grandchildren, home and farming duties, their shop hours reflect their need to establish balance in their lives. Fortunately, their hours provide them with time for family, time to create, and time to sell. The River Shack is open on Thursday - 1 to 8 pm, Friday - 10 to 5 pm, and on Saturday - 10 to 5 pm. The only exception will be during the upcoming Danish Heritage Festival, the Grundlovsfest, when their Friday hours will be extended from 10 to 8 pm to accommodate local residents and visitors to the area.
The duo have found that the most difficult part of running their own business is finding enough time to accomplish all those items and events they hope to offer. However, any difficulty they experience is overcome by the fun and enjoyment they receive when meeting new people, helping customers pick just the right gift, and hosting home or bridal parties.
Don't be afraid to venture out and visit the new River Shack here in town.
Also, JoAnne and Marleen hope you won't be shy about calling them to set up special hours at the shop or to plan an exciting, personalized event. If you can't catch Joanne at 308-750-4632 and Marleen at 308-750-3859, then leave a message and they're quick to respond. JoAnne can even return calls from the seat of a tractor. As mentioned before, this Dannebrog duo has the best of both worlds.
Caption: Marleen Casperson and JoAnne Kroger display some of the fun and fanciful items sold at the River Shack just outside of Dannebrog, NE.
-photo by Jane Ryan
