Sand Lake Businesses Celebrate Ribbon Cuttings
SAND LAKE — Doors were open, scissors were shearing and the energy in downtown Sand Lake carried the feel of a community on the move.
On Sunday, Sept. 27, eight Sand Lake businesses celebrated ribbon cutting ceremonies during a community-wide event hosted by the Sand Lake Area Chamber of Commerce. The afternoon gave residents and visitors a chance to step inside local shops, meet business owners and see firsthand the growing variety of services available in the Sand Lake area.
Ms. Sand Lake Graclyn Mactavish and her court member Hannah Brinks were also in attendance, helping celebrate the ribbon cuttings and lending a ceremonial touch to the afternoon.
From coffee and dentistry to healthcare, home décor, beauty services and full-service gunsmithing, the event highlighted a business community that continues to expand while keeping a strong local feel.
At Sand Lake Family Dentistry, Dr. Aaron Freeman said his focus is on building trust and being available for patients.
“I came here to love on the people of Sand Lake, help them with good dentistry and be there for them if they need me,” Freeman said. “I am available 24/7. If there is any need or concern, I believe in communication and I’m just trying to put myself out there for the people.”
Freeman acquired the long-standing Sand Lake dental practice earlier this year and said he is looking forward to continuing its tradition of care in the community.
The event also celebrated the local medical practice of Dr. Jerod Gardner, who is bringing a Direct Primary Care model to the area. Gardner said Sand Lake was a natural fit for his family and his practice.
“I originally worked at Kelsey Hospital in Lakeview, when that closed I got a job as a medical director over in Grant,” Gardner said. “So, my family and I have lived in the Cedar Springs, Sand Lake area since taking that job. So, this was a good place to be for the Tri-County area. I look forward to serving the Sand Lake community and bringing personalized healthcare to them.”
For hunters and firearm enthuiasts in need of firearm work, Malachi Grenell said his business offers full-service gunsmithing, including modifications and repairs to nearly any firearm. Grenell said the location came about after he saw an opportunity to purchase the building through a private listing on Facebook Marketplace.
While he does not currently offer restoration work because he does not yet have access to refinishing tools, Grenell said he hopes to get there soon as he enjoys the mechanical side of the trade.
“It’s the mechanical aspect of it,” he said. “Learning and discovering how different platforms work. It’s a very mechanical field.”
At Chosen & Created Co., owner Dawn Reyburn said her shop offers a mix of bakery items, boutique items, vintage antiques and new and used furniture. For Reyburn, the business is also deeply personal.
“It’s a God-driven purpose,” Reyburn said. “God has brought me out of darkness into light and I want to show that brightness into everything else in the community.”
When asked why she chose Sand Lake, Reyburn said the answer was simple.
“I own the Lakeside Inn and live in Sand Lake,” she said.
Nearby, Lulu’s Cafe offered another warm stop for visitors. Owner Jessica Nelson said she hopes the cafe brings something simple and welcoming to Sand Lake.
“Good strong coffee,” Nelson said. “We like good food. We like good coffee and we like to share with people.”
The name Lulu’s also has a family connection.
“Livi Lu and Lexi Lu. My daughter and granddaughter’s nicknames,” Nelson said.
Other businesses taking part in the ribbon cutting event included John’s “Pretty Good” Barbershop, a one-chair barbershop offering traditional cuts and straight razor shaves, and The Pearl Rental Suites, a downtown space that brings independent beauty, wellness and self-care providers together under one roof. Another local business cutting the ribbon was B Well Therapeutic Massage offering specialty massages such as pre and post natal and hot Himalayan salt stone massages.
Together, the eight businesses reflect the continued growth of Sand Lake and the people investing their time, talents and dreams into the community.
The businesses are now open and ready to serve residents and visitors the next time they are in Sand Lake.
