For more than 37 years, The Wooden Spoon in Plano has been more than just a store; it is a place where people feel at home. Owned by Gwen Welk Workman, the shop celebrates Scandinavian culture while fostering a sense of belonging for all who walk through its doors.
Gwen's journey started in 1988 with a dream and a few dollars. Originally from a Scandinavian community in Minnesota, she moved to Texas and saw a gap in the market. "There wasn’t much culture here," she recalls. After a visit to the Texas State Fair, where she discovered the Norwegian Society of Texas, she knew she was not the only person with Scandinavian roots in the area. This sparked the idea for The Wooden Spoon, a space to celebrate her heritage and share it with others.
The shop’s welcoming atmosphere is key to its success. Gwen believes that when people feel special and valued, they will keep coming back. "If you build a place where people feel welcome, you're building relationships, not just a business," she shares. Many customers, especially older generations, remark that the shop reminds them of their grandmothers’ houses—warm, inviting, and full of love. The shop is a space where both long-time customers and newcomers can connect over shared experiences and traditions.
Gwen’s connections to the community run deep. "I don’t know if I’ve got a friend or a customer," she laughs, reflecting on how personal relationships are intertwined with her business. She regularly hosts gatherings, like dinner parties for church friends, and often meets people who share stories of their own connections to Scandinavian culture. She also takes pride in helping kids with school reports about Nordic countries and encouraging cultural exploration.
Behind the scenes, The Wooden Spoon required immense dedication. From stripping the stairwell by hand to managing renovations of the historic building, Gwen did it with help from family and friends. "It took me three weeks to strip the stairwell," she says with pride.
As Gwen looks to the future, she hopes the legacy of The Wooden Spoon continues. “I will take our time and get the right person in here,” she says. The shop is a place where cultures meet, friendships form, and memories are made—a community treasure built on hard work, kindness, and respect for all.
Pull Quote: "If you build a place where people feel welcome, you're building relationships, not just a business."