415 Brooks Street in Wake Forest is experiencing a surge in business as Downtown’s Page 158 Books recently underwent a substantial expansion, not only revitalizing their own space but also engaging in a collaborative venture with another cherished local establishment, The Lemon Tree Café.
The idea for this expansion emerged shortly after Page 158 secured its location in 2017. Dave Lucey, the owner, noting the business's steady 15-20% annual growth, led he and his wife Sue to recognize the need for more space for author events and book clubs. Due to limited space, the Lucey’s were often required to host events outside downtown or in Raleigh.
In 2021, the decision to expand gained momentum, culminating in the purchase of additional space with the support of Wake Forest’s own Fidelity Bank. "Giving people more reasons to be in downtown Wake Forest contributes directly to the economic growth,” says Lucey. “Money spent here stays here."
Upon recognizing the substantial size of the space, the Lucey’s began strategically planning for collaborative initiatives. "We thought long and hard about what to add to the space to attract more customers and increase foot traffic," says Lucey. The result spurred a partnership with Lemon Tree Café.
“Lemon Tree is thrilled to be a part of this expansion and continue to collaborate with small businesses in downtown Wake Forest,” states Lemon Tree Café owner, Stacey Moritz.
Since opening, two other local Wake Forest businesses have joined forces in the expansion.
The Wake Forest Listening Room started by Town resident Mike Allen in 2017, began as performances around town featuring local and regional musicians. Initially located below Sugar Magnolia Café, hosting over 300 performances before a COVID-related shutdown in late 2021, the venue has now reopened in Page 158’s expanded space with increased seating and upgraded sound and light systems. “Mike is passionate about music and musicians and has worked tirelessly over the years to bring some fantastic artists to town,” says Lucey. “We are excited to partner with Mike to bring live music to downtown every Friday night!”
Additionally, The Knotty Sheep, a yarn shop run by Wake Forest resident Heather Burns, has joined in sharing the expanded space at 415 Brooks Street. “Heather has been a great customer of the bookstore over the years and always talked about her desire to open a yarn shop in Town,” says Lucey. “She has a selection of yarn and knitting-related items and holds workshops and the ever popular ‘stitch and bitch’ sessions.”
The overall goal of the expanded space is to build community in Wake Forest, especially in the downtown area, offering new avenues for engagement such as entertainment, larger author events, and partnerships with local businesses. "Our hope is to engage with our community in a dramatic way by offering food, live music, and craft-related items and events," says Lucey. “We're always looking for ways to partner with local businesses.”
The expansion not only supports local businesses but also enriches Wake Forest's cultural landscape. Partnered businesses actively engage in Wake Forest Downtown events and collaborate on various special events. With the introduction of live music, there are plans to explore creating "date night" packages across businesses. “Lemon Tree caters to Page 158 during author events. We offer food to patrons of The Listening Room, and we have many fun plans to collaborate in the new year,” says Moritz. “We're excited to continue to grow in the coming years!”
Lucey adds, “Our Wake Forest Listening Room events and author events give our residents something interesting to do. The Lemon Tree has held several cooking and entertaining workshops, we're also planning some combined cookbook events with them. The Knotty Sheep is offering learn-to-knit classes and workshops. All of these are unique experiences that keep Downtown interesting and engaging for our residents.”
Additionally, community engagement initiatives, such as Lit Fest hosted by the non-profit New Kids on the Books, further enrich the cultural fabric of the Town.
“The expansion of Page 158 Books - in collaboration with Lemon Tree Café and these other unique local businesses - not only signifies new and cool growth and entrepreneurial development Downtown but also exemplifies a shared commitment to enhancing the economic and cultural vitality of Wake Forest,” says Jason Cannon, President of the Wake Forest Business & Industry Partnership. “The combined venture offers a multifaceted experience, from literary events and live music to culinary delights, creating a thriving hub in the heart of Downtown.”
Says Dave Lucey, “We want to do anything we can to make and keep Downtown Wake Forest as a destination and make it a desirable place to live and play.“
