Originally from the Midwest, Norv and Sharon Skirvseth have called Bonners Ferry home for 20 years. They were drawn to the area by friends and have been an integral part of the community since their arrival in 1996. Sharon, raised by parents with an Amish background, learned early on the value of hard work, and it certainly has paid off. “I’ve always liked home business,” said Sharon referring to a tradition of the Amish culture.
In 2006, Sharon decided to put her talent to work and began a business in the basement of the couple’s Bonners Ferry home. Today, that business, Sharon’s Country Store, is a favorite of many from Creston to Coeur d’Alene. In June of 2008 they moved the business from their home and into a storefront, and then to its current location at 510752 Hwy 95 in January 2009.
Through the years, the business has continued to grow to the delight of its customers, offering everything from bulk foods to unique crafts and furniture.
If you like to cook and bake, strive to eat healthy, and want to consume non-GMO products, Sharon’s Country Store has all you need. There is also a deli that offers various meats, cheeses and deli trays. “We have a lot of choices for those with a sweet tooth, including gourmet chocolate-covered coffee beans and nuts as well as gummy candy for the kids,” said Sharon.
Sharon’s Country Store offers bulk foods, which sets them apart from the average grocery store, and allows them to pass the savings onto the customers. Whether it is beans, rice, popcorn or flour, one can find 25 to 50-pound bags at Sharon’s.
“We are able to order from the same companies (as other grocery stores), Bob's Red Mill, Wheat Montana, etc., but by buying in bulk and repackaging and also offering that product in bulk, we are able to cut costs and hopefully offer the customer that same great product but for less!” said Sharon. “People care about what they are putting in their mouth and like to know where their food is coming from.”
Sharon’s also carries canning supplies as well as items such as fresh, ground nut butter as well as farm fresh eggs, raw milk and yogurt from a local dairy. With natural, organic and gluten free products, people with special dietary needs or desires are able to find what they need.
But the store is not limited to carrying just food items. They have fabric, sewing supplies and the very popular Amish made furniture. “We have glider rockers and old fashioned hickory rockers,” said Sharon who adds that she also carries benches, bookcases and other items made by local craftsmen. “We also stock lots of ‘Melissa and Doug’ toys and our unique fair trade Bolga Baskets.”
The staff at Sharon’s Country Store takes pride in providing friendly and personal customer service,
“It’s the customer who makes our business grow and survive. We are grateful for that support and appreciate them stopping by!” said Sharon. “In turn, we want to provide them with a good product for a great price.”
Two years ago, Sharon and Norv purchased The Bread Basket, conveniently located right next door to Sharon’s, and they have been thrilled to carry on the tradition of the previous owners, Darrel and Dorothy Chupp.
Stop in today and see all that Sharon’s Country Store has to offer. They are open Monday through Friday 8am – 5:30pm and Saturday 8am – 2pm. You can also find them online at www.sharonscountrystore.com.
Sharon’s Country Store
North of Hwy 95 and Hwy 2
Bonners Ferry, ID
208.267.7579