Sweetwater Design Co. constructing office space for small business owners at Cedar Grove Business Park

The Cedar Grove Business Park has witnessed a flurry of recent activity, with numerous small business owners acquiring lots and embarking on expansion ventures for their enterprises or services.

One of the most recent small business owners to begin this journey is Molly Larson, the owner of Sweetwater Design Co. The business offers graphic and web design for fellow businesses along the North Shore and nationwide. 

“I work with a lot of local businesses, which I love, but I also work with businesses all over the country,” Larson said. The local businesses that Larson has worked with include Skyport Lodge, Blue Water Cafe, World’s Best Donuts, The Big Lake, North Point, 47 Degrees North, and numerous others. “There’s a long list. All great people to work with. I feel very lucky.”

Earlier this spring, Larson purchased two lots in the business park, Lot 1, Block 1, and Lot 2, Block 1, on the south side of the Gunflint Trail near the Highway Department facilities, intending to build a small office building.

Following the closing of the property, Larson immediately began groundwork on the property and has been busy with construction efforts. “The framing is happening right now,” she said. 

The property will include a main office building comprising four individual office spaces. Larson will utilize one of the spaces for her business, while the remaining three will be available for lease to other entrepreneurs or small business owners. 

“I’m really excited to have a space to meet with clients and just have a little more work-home life separation,” Larson said. 

Furthermore, the property will include a detached studio shop for lease for artists or craftsmen. 

Even before the construction is finalized, Larson has garnered interest from freelancers and small business owners looking to rent the available office space. Laura Muus, the owner of Laura Muus Photography, has committed to leasing one of the spaces. “We’re in conversations with a few different people, but nothing’s 100 percent certain yet,” Larson said. 

Larson hopes that construction will be finalized by the spring of 2024 and that she can move into her new office space. “I hope this space allows me to maybe hire people down the road and continue to grow and help other businesses grow.”

WTIP’s Kalli Hawkins visited with Molly Larson to learn more about her ongoing construction plans and what she envisions for the future of her business. Audio from the interview is below. 

Kalli Hawkins October 21, 2023