30 Years of Strolling: Sheridan Stationery Keeps Their Stroll Legacy Alive

If you’ve enjoyed the Sheridan County Chamber of Commerce’s Christmas Stroll over the last 30 years, you can partially thank the efforts of longtime downtown business Sheridan Stationery Books and Gifts.

In addition to participating in every year of the Stroll since its inception, the business also played a key role in the Stroll’s origins. Previous business owners Robby and John Smith were two of the inaugural members of the Chamber’s Christmas Stroll Committee 30 years ago, and Robby Smith remains active on the committee to this day, serving as the committee’s chair.

Jessica Bohnsack bought Sheridan Stationery from the Smiths in 2021 and moved the store’s location to 535 N. Main St. But even with the new ownership and location, Sheridan Stationery remains dedicated to keeping their Christmas Stroll legacy alive, Bohnsack said.

Below, Bohnsack shares a bit about why she loves Stroll, and why it’s an event she looks forward to all year long.

Why has your business been a longtime supporter of Christmas Stroll?

The Christmas Stroll is my favorite community event! From what I understand, our previous owner, Robby Smith, was instrumental in launching the Stroll in Sheridan and still holds a spot on the committee.

As a customer, the Stroll has been an event my family has enjoyed annually, and to have the opportunity to participate with my own business is exciting! I love how it brings so many members of our community out to discover new businesses and revisit favorites. It truly unites the community in a joyful way! 

Do you have a favorite Christmas Stroll theme?

I really loved the candy cane theme from a couple years ago. (Editor’s Note: “Candy Cane Christmas Stroll” was the theme of the 2023 Stroll.)

How has participating in Christmas Stroll benefitted your business?

I get a lot of people who come in to check the Stroll number and mention they haven’t been in before, so I know it helps bring in new customers. It also helps jump start the holiday shopping season, and gets everyone, including retailers and shoppers, in the holiday spirit.