Meet the woman bringing a new 'third place' to Sioux Falls

Megan Raposa -

This is a paid piece from Good NAtured.

Simplified: Sioux Falls entrepreneur Shannon Ward has a new downtown location she hopes will be a space where people can gather, create community and connect without the presence or pressure of drinking alcohol. Here's what you need to know about Good NAtured.

Why it matters

  • Alcohol has a very prominent presence in Sioux Falls' social scene, but increasingly, people are joining the "sober-curious" movement.
    • Ward – who's drawing on her own personal experience of recovering from an unhealthy relationship with drinking – is looking to create a space where people can socialize without worrying about being around alcohol.
"I’m not going to be preaching at you about drinking or not drinking," Ward said. "I believe there’s a sobriety spectrum, and there's so many reasons people make the choice not to drink today. I want to hold space for the possibility that you can come somewhere and not drink."
  • She also hopes Good NAtured can become "our third place" for people in Sioux Falls to spend time and build community outside of their homes and workplaces. The store will create space for people to share their talents, sell their wares and host their events.

Tell me more

Good NAtured is located on East Eighth Street in the space that most recently housed Joy Collective Yoga, which moved to a different spot downtown.

  • The front portion of the shop will include a retail section with a collection of locally made goods, and makers will be able to sell their wares on consignment.
  • Then the back of the shop will have seating, tables and space for people to purchase a nonalcoholic beverage and relax.

Ward is focused on supporting fellow local business owners at every step in the process of opening her new shop.

  • The seating and tables are designed by local woodworker Nate Boscaljon and built with community help. Boscaljon this month is hosting several classes on furniture building, and the work from those classes will furnish Good NAtured.

What happens next?

Good NAtured plans to open in October.

Ward has already planned several events, including:

  • A silent disco on Oct. 12,
  • A grand opening celebration on Oct. 19,
  • And a Halloween costume party on Oct. 26.

In the future, she hopes to also host other types of events, shows, classes and more.

"My hope is people come for the retail and stay for the community," Ward said.

Follow Good NAtured on Facebook for more updates on hours and upcoming events.