Today we’d like to introduce you to Anna Gravening
Hi Anna, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Stepping stones… I remember spending a lot of hours in my dad’s workshop creating wood crafts with my very own drill press and band saw he had given me. I suppose it isn’t every teenagers dream but I was ecstatic! My dad was a woodworker on the side and built the log home where I grew up, in Northern Wisconsin. Fast forward to my early twenties; my love of wood working and creating evolved into refinishing furniture. Taking something old that most would throw out and giving it new life. During these years another creative person invited me into her world of what is known today as the “Occasional Sale.” At the time this idea was nearly unheard of. The goal was to basically empty out her house and refill it with all of our creations; restored furniture, vintage finds and other creative pieces. We would then open up “Shop” to the public for one weekend in the summer and one weekend at Christmas. This new concept really intrigued me! More stepping stones.
In my late twenties/early thirties, I found myself in partnership of an occasional shop in Afton, Mn. This opportunity opened my world to the community of makers and shop owners which then led me to be a part of a shop in Buffalo, Mn; home of the “Occasional Shops!” Even more stepping stones!
Keep in mind I had gone to school for Elementary Education and was teaching during these years. So, for the most part, this was all a side hobby. It was also during this time I had met and married my best friend who was living in Buffalo. (Before we were married, he used to drive all the way out to Afton and sit with me in the shop on Saturdays. He was a keeper for sure!)
A few years later, while sitting with a couple of other creative gals over coffee and discussing future goals and dreams, the small business owner came out and offered me a space to set up shop! I certainly wasn’t expecting an opportunity quite so soon! Thus began the adventure of owning my very own shop, Willow Farm. (It was named after the small farmstead we had recently purchased that was landscaped with beautiful Willow trees.) More stepping stones!
After celebrating 5 years in business, yet another opportunity opened up which led me to the beautiful lake town of Annandale, Mn. It is often referred to as a “hallmark” town due to its small town charm and festivities. This move allowed me to rebrand a bit, shortening the name to Willow. I decided to go back to my roots of a more Northwoods theme which fits in nicely with the town being home to many cabin and lake home dwellers. It’s a place where beauty is all around and adventures are to be had! I am forever grateful for all those stepping stones that God placed along the way and look forward to where they’ll lead in the years to come!
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
While there are definitely many joys to owning a shop, I’ve had struggles both personally and professionally along the way. I have learned in this community of creativity that there are generally two types of people. Those that are there to cheer you on and support you and then those who unfortunately only want to take from you. Shortly after having opened the doors at my first location, I dealt with theft, bullying, slander and then having to close my doors due to covid. So yes… in short I have certainly dealt with my share of obstacles. If there is ever a lesson to be learned, always choose kindness!
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Willow?
Willow is a reflection of the Northwoods. Whether it brings nostalgic memories of summers spent at the cabin, hours down by the lake or adventures in the great outdoors, we’re here to help you recapture that joy through everyday living. Willow offers a variety of home decor, clothing and gifts made right here in Minnesota!
Any big plans?
While we offer a great selection of products that reflect the outdoors, it is my desire to encourage people to actually get outdoors. I hear a lot of people talk about wanting to make a change in their life, whether it be exercising more, less screen time or simply feeling more connected to the people around you. My goal is to help provide a means to support a healthier, happier adventurous lifestyle.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: willow_est2018
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/willowest2018
- Other: willowest2018@gmail.com
