COTTAGE GROVE – When two self-proclaimed “witchy hippies” set off on a business venture to bring metaphysical stores to the small towns they lived in, it was only a matter of time before Star Frog made its debut in the Grove.
Brittany Smith (left), owner of Cottage Grove’s Star Frog storefront, and April Rudd, owner of the Sturgis, South Dakota, Star Frog storefront, welcomed dozens of customers who supported the new metaphysical store.
Star Frog, now located at 211 N. 9th St., opened its doors March 28. The store’s name is a combination of the spiritual nicknames which owners Brittany Smith and April Rudd go by: Star (Smith) and Frog (Rudd).
“I’ve been obsessed with stars ever since I was a little girl. I think it was ingrained in me as a child. My mom, in my newborn room, she had painted the night sky on the ceiling, so I’ve always referred to myself as Star,” Smith said. “April was given her name at a rainbow festival, and she’s always been obsessed with frogs, too, so that’s how she got her name.”
Star Frog’s first location opened last October in Sturgis, South Dakota, and is managed by Rudd. Although Star Frog’s new location in Cottage Grove is a rather small storefront, the space is used effectively to showcase the myriad of mystical products like: crystals, tarot decks, herbs, incense, clothing, feathers, candles, and more.
“There’s no stores like this in the area,” Smith said. “We’re here to give people options as far as spirituality and holistic wellness.”
