Fashions, Gifts, Toys and More!

Local couple provides unique shopping opportunities here in Sandpoint

By Jillian Chandler

Photo by Kiersten Patterson Photography

For the past decade, Carousel Emporium and Creations Toy Store have been staples in Sandpoint. Housed at the Cedar Street Bridge on 1st Street, these two family owned and operated stores provide an extensive variety of items sourced from all over the world from more than 350 vendors!

Owners Shery and Scott Meekings moved to Sandpoint in 2009 to raise their family in this small, beautiful lake and ski town. And they have enjoyed every minute of the life and business they have been able to build here.

After seeing the need for family friendly goods and services to be offered in downtown Sandpoint, the couple decided that they would fill this niche, opening the doors to not only one but two new shops—Carousel Emporium and Creations Toy Store.

They handpick each item to ensure the highest quality and artisanship while supporting local and international artists in their respective trades. They strive to provide a wide variety of beautiful women’s clothing and footwear, jewelry and accessories, unique locally handcrafted furniture, and inspiring and well-crafted homewares and gift items at Carousel, with baby and children’s clothing and accessories, delightful children’s toys and games, art supplies and more at Creations.

Shery and Scott love being part of the business community and having the opportunity to meet and interact with both locals and visitors who share the same love of North Idaho as they do. “Business is just a door, but what comes through the door is what makes us strive to continue the journey,” smiles Shery. “We love the relationships we have built with thousands of people and families throughout the years.”

Connecting with the people is what Shery finds most rewarding about the work she does here in Sandpoint through Carousel Emporium and Creations Toy Store. “I also love creating a fun and encouraging space for all to enjoy! We like to make people happy!”

In addition to running their two stores, the Meekings make it a priority to give back to the community that has embraced them, their family and their businesses over the years. They created and have supported Creations’ community play and art space inside the Cedar Street Bridge since 2011. Creations is a 501c3 nonprofit organization that accepts donations and receives local grant funding. A portion of all sales from Creations and Carousel Emporium fund the community art and tree house community areas. They also host the annual Sandpoint Tree Lighting and Santa visits during the holiday season.

After 10 years in business, the couple is grateful for the success they have seen over the years, attributing it to their wonderful staff and faithful patrons. “All the people that work for us and all of our loyal customers that visit us year after year, they have become part of our family.

There is plenty of reason to shop in The Cedar Street Bridge this year. It’s the perfect place to shop and discover some of the wonderful businesses that can be found here in Sandpoint, with Carousel Emporium and Creations Toy Store making up two of the 20 unique shops the community and visitors can enjoy.

Shery and Scott invite you to explore all they have to offer at Carousel Emporium and Creations Toy Store. You’re sure to find those perfect gifts for your loved ones and friends—and you’ll want to treat yourself to something special too! Carousel Emporium and Creations Toy Store are currently open 10am to 6pm daily, with extended weekend hours through the holiday season.

Carousel Emporium and Creations Toy Store

Inside The Cedar Street Bridge

334 North 1st Avenue

Sandpoint, Idaho 83864

208.263.4140