Okoboji Trading Company

08/05/2026

We missed you at LAFM this afternoon but look forward to seeing you at The Shops at Old School Mercantile tomorrow through Monday or back here Saturday morning. We'll keep the lights on for you.

08/01/2026

I did a thing!

As many of you know, back in March, on top of losing so much in the fire, I also lost my sweet kitty. That one hurt in a way that's hard to explain, and I just wasn't ready to try to fill that space.

But yesterday, I decided it was time.

I went to the Emmet County Animal Shelter thinking I'd come home with one kitten.

Well... I should have known better.

From the moment I walked in, I was incredibly impressed. Kristy and her staff have built something special. The shelter was clean, organized, and every animal I saw was obviously well cared for. They took the time to answer my questions, tell me about each kitten's personality, and made the whole adoption process easy and enjoyable. You can tell this isn't just a job for them—they genuinely love what they do.

Then they introduced me to two little troublemakers.

I tried to convince myself that one was the practical choice. The kittens had other ideas. They had already bonded, and before long I realized I wasn't choosing one... I was choosing both.

So yes... I came home with twice what planned

I have a feeling they're going to keep me entertained, keep me humble, and probably keep me from ever having a clear countertop again. After everything that's happened this year, having a little life and laughter back in the house feels pretty good.

If you're thinking about adding a furry family member, I can't recommend them enough. Kristy and everyone there for the care you give these animals and for helping these two little girls find their new home.

Now, if you'll excuse me, I have some kitten-proofing to finish... and I'm pretty sure I'm already outnumbered.

07/31/2026

Starting with our store in Spirit Lake and continuing to our store on the The Shops at Old School Mercantile, we have taken our role as being good ambassadors of the lakes area seriously. Our products just naturally tend to start conversations and as my family has been here for 5 generations and my store is in my kindergarten room, we are as qualified as any... I will also tell you there are days where I question my life choices, not many but some... the day I met Bob and Danette was not one of those. Met them at the Spirit Lake Farmers Market and after a couple of orders, a visit to the store, and a bunch of family and local history they became some of my favorite customers. They had never been here before and we're traveling through but you could just tell they were soaking up their experiences here or where ever they ventured. After they left came pictures of a tumbler I did sitting on a bar in MacGregor, a text, and then yesterday a post card... they took the time to buy, address, write, affix a stamp, and stick it in the mail....I was humbled and so grateful to be included in their journey even if just a small way. May we all have customers like Bob and Danette!!

07/17/2026

Bijanca Clark - NDT was having a great time this morning at Downtown Fargo Street Fair -

She stopped on by Morley's Maple Syrup for some of that DELICIOUS bourbon maple syrup & a great time!

Shoutout to O'Day Cache for the $5 parasol, needed on a day like this ☀️

07/17/2026

Miss North Dakota, Emma Tong stopped by our booth at Fargo Street fair!! I think she's 7 feet tall. Thanks Emma!!

07/15/2026

Come see us Thursday thru Monday at the Old School Merchantile on Broadway in Arnolds Park. Have you seen our beautiful Okoboji maps? We also carry other local lakes.
We would love to create your special lake.

07/04/2026

06/24/2026

It was a great evening at Lakes Area Farmers Market. Thanks to those who came out. We will be back at The Shops at Old School Mercantile tomorrow at 10. Check out the new Lake Life for a nice article about OTC. Thanks for sharing our story.

06/19/2026

Beginning next week we will be open Monday,
Thursday, Friday and Saturday 10 to 5 and Sunday 12 to 3 or by appointment.