RoRo’s She Shed open for business

By Staff, 08/13/21 12:04 PM

PRESCOTT – A process begun two years ago has reached its fruition.

RoRo’s She Shed is now open for business and held a ribbon cutting Friday. The event venue is owned by Karen Ward, who said a lot of negotiations were held to get the old machine shop on Ozan Ave. However, she managed to buy the building in August 2020 and has been renovating it since. Bill Ammons was her primary contractor, though subcontractors were used in the remodeling and renovation. Ward said this is an industrial inspired venue and will be a good place for reunions, weddings and private parties. She also plans to have regular markets, the first scheduled for Sept. 4. Ward is looking for vendors who have new or handmade items, or wood crafts.

The venue has three “wow” factors, she said. The first is a fireplace built by Boo Hendrix and Josh Ratcliff; the second is a chandelgear, made from gears and pipe by Teresa Chandlier, a retired art teacher from Nashville High School; with the third being a set of curved staircases that haven’t been completed yet. The staircases will primarily be for weddings and allow the bride to walk down in style. The stairs are being built by Gaby Rameriz and his son. There’s still work to be done, as a deck will be added and plans include a venue for lawn weddings. Ward said she got a lot of help from her friends, which helped immensely. The venue has a bridal suite, while the groom quarters are across the street.

Miss Arkansas, Whitney Williams, was on hand for the ribbon cutting. Williams said she’s reflected on the last two months of her journey as Miss Arkansas saying it’s been incredible. She told the packed house we need to share the talents we have and the arts are about getting people together. An artist herself, Williams said she paints, does process art and has painted murals in Fayetteville. “I”m amazed with what Karen’s done with this building. It’s truly turned gold and t his place will be an amazing part of people’s life journey.”

Prescott Mayor Terry Oliver said he was amazed at the transition in the building as he used to deliver deli trays to the shop years ago. “This is a different place. If this shop could talk, it would say ‘Look at me now’. I’m proud of Karen and her family for their commitment, dedication and hard work they’ve put into this place.”

Ward followed, thanking and naming everyone who helped with the project, telling the audience the Bank of Delight helped with the financing and Judy Duke was instrumental from start to finish in helping her buy the building. The lauded the Prescott-Nevada County Chamber of Commerce for its help, and attorney Glenn Vasser for keeping everything legal. She said this project couldn’t have come together without the aid of her sister, who was an integral part of the process. She also thanked Arkansas Circus acts for their help with the ribbon cutting

Ward said the name “RoRo” was a moniker given to her by her grandchildren. The “she shed” has a Facebook page and is working on a website. Ward said she’s taking bookings for fall and winter events as well as looking for vendors interested in participating in the market. Those interested in either being part of the market, or scheduling an event can call Ward at 870-703-0649.