By Craig Marx, Editor

In  honor of “Small Business Saturday” in Antigo next weekend, a promotion that puts focus on local businesses and enterprises in our community, we went and checked out three flourishing businesses north of town that are all bundled into one building. Northern Roots Artisan Market, Antigo Family Consignment, and the King of Sleeps Mattress Outlet each offer a unique niche to locals and would-be passersby.

The building itself, formerly the H & H Furniture Building, is owned by Bob Hunter, who with his son oversee the mattress store entity of the property as well. Hunter noted that each of the three staple businesses offers something unique to the Antigo area.

“I’ve owned this building for around 10 years,” Hunter said, “but my family has owned businesses in Antigo ever since the ‘40s. I think all three of these businesses [in this building] offer something special to the community. We have one of the better mattress selections in Northern Wisconsin and have a lot of people come here locally along with those that have summer homes.”

The King of Sleeps also has other features that bode well for the lake home, including log furniture and gas fireplace heaters.

The trio of stores has a unique location in terms of other Antigo businesses as it is separate from both downtown and the ever-expanding north side. As one could feasibly stop and purchase a bottle of specialty wine, a book, and a bed all from one stop in the parking lot, the drive-by traffic is something special to the group of businesses that wish to continue to also serve the more local market.

“We have a beautiful venue here,” said Jess Filbrandt, owner of Northern Roots Artisan Market. “People often don’t know what to expect when they walk in, but we offer great local shopping.”

The ambiance and décor of Northern Roots help add to the rustic atmosphere that is inviting from the first walk through the door. Featuring everything from homemade crafts and jewelry to craft beer, Sartori cheeses, and Nueske’s meat products, Northern Roots provides both locals and commuting tourists with a flavor of the Northwoods in a cozy and inviting venue.

Filbrandt’s store will have been opened two years come this February. The interior look was made possible by the vision and work of Johnny Hunter, Bob’s son, who designed the doors, trim, and counters to name a few projects.

Located next door, to the south, is the lively Antigo Family Consignment store owned by Diann Taunton. Offering quality consignment items at thrift prices, the store has been open since 2013 and has been a true reflection of family business in the Antigo area.

“We have wonderful consignors bringing in really quality items here,” Taunton said. “There is a need for this kind of store in the community and it really has something to offer for everyone, whether they are bringing something in or purchasing something. It really helps either person in that case.”

Antigo Family Consignment is truly a family affair. Taunton’s mother, Eleanor Short, works behind the counter of the spacious establishment, while Taunton’s children have helped her immensely in the past and continue to do so as the business grows. The store features furniture, artwork, clothing, and nearly anything one could wish to find – including a large selection of books located in the rear of the store that are part of the shop’s “Book Nook” as advertised outside.

These three area businesses represent the helpful and determined owners of each of their entrepreneurships. Stop by the eclectic collection of stores for a great, one-of-a-kind shopping experience in Antigo.

• King of Sleeps Mattress Outlet – 2905 US Hwy 45 – (715) 623-1101 – Open Monday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Antigo Family Consignment – 2912 US Hwy 45 – (715) 627-7100 – Open Monday through Friday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Northern Roots Artisan Market – 2914 US Hwy 45 – (715) 627-0999 – Open Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.