New Year, New Opportunities: Meet the Businesses Inside Downtown Casper’s Atrium Plaza

Over the years, we’ve seen downtown Casper’s Atrium Plaza evolve with our community. From new stores to new businesses, business owners have been able to expand and grow their companies right from inside the doors of this beloved community hub. During the holidays, you will witness festive shoppers, families, and other individuals making their way through Casper’s Atrium Plaza in hopes of finding their favorite stocking stuffers or sweet treats.

With all of the transformations this business overall has endured, it is time that we give you an inside look into each of the businesses that are working “Better Together,” as the mural states on the outside of this historic building, to create an incomparable downtown Casper experience from our newbies to our seasoned visitors.

Are you ready to explore these businesses more? Follow along in our “Q&A-inspired” blog post, engage with each of these businesses, and develop a stronger sense of community in our incredible Wyoming town as we deep-dive into who they are, why they started, and what they hope for the future of their local businesses.

D’s Jiu-Jitsu Academy

D Kery Nelms, owner of D’s Jiu-Jitsu Academy, shared her journey:

What’s the Story Behind Your Business’s Establishment in Downtown Casper?

Nelms recounted, “I have been doing Jiu-Jitsu for 18 years. I started teaching classes in my backyard, then moved to the Atrium on Pete Maxwell’s invitation. I have been in the atrium for around six to seven years and have moved into a bigger space in the basement.”

Could You Share a Highlight of Your Products and/or Service Offerings?

“I offer classes for various age groups, starting at three years old,” Nelms said. “New guests receive two trial classes. We focus on technique and self-defense, emphasizing using leverage over strength. Jiu-Jitsu is known as the gentle art.”

How Do You Ensure Quality and Uniqueness in Your Offerings?

“What sets us apart is that we are the only place in town offering a kids’ program in Jiu-Jitsu,” Kery notes. “I have been training for 18 years, with a background in Colorado and Wyoming! I leverage my extensive training experience to provide a unique learning environment.

What Makes Your Business a Must-Visit Destination in Downtown Casper?

“Having a female-only instruction brings a lot of individuals into our business, and not only this, but many individuals are looking for a way to keep themselves and others safe,” she mentions.

How Does Your Business Engage with and Contribute to the Downtown Community?

“I have worked with downtown businesses to keep other business owners in the area safe, too!” Kery says. “Also, downtown has opened opportunities with other Casper organizations and businesses that allow us to foster relationships in and throughout the community.”

Looking Ahead, What Are Your Aspirations for Your Business in Downtown Casper?

“Expanding my clientele is always one of my biggest goals!” She mentions. “I would love to connect with more people seeking confidence and/or self-defense skills.”

What Advice Would You Give Someone Looking to Start a Business in Downtown Casper?

Kery advises that for any new business in the downtown area, it’s crucial to be visible and engaging—leveraging social media for growth and exposure is key.

How Can People Learn More About Your Business and Stay Updated on Your Latest Offerings?

Kery shared that they are working on launching new and exciting marketing strategies on their social media accounts. “Unfortunately, we lost our Facebook account, but we have up-to-date Google business information for inquiries,” she concluded.

Theraexpressions Meditation

We met with Candace Machado, owner of Theraexpressions Meditation, to get more information on her business.

What’s the Story Behind Your Business’s Establishment in Downtown Casper?

Candace recounts, “I owned this business for the last eight years and worked as a clinician in the mental health field. Ten years into my clinical practice, I realized I was overwhelmed. Starting Theraexpressions at home, I aimed to blend holistic health into mental health—think of bridging the gap between the two here. My journey led me to my second location, the Atrium Plaza, which I have loved the last year.”

Could You Share a Highlight of Your Products and/or Service Offerings?

“Our offerings are extremely diverse,” she noted. “From online guided practices to ayurvedic consultations, we focus on holistic healing and mental well-being in the form of in-person, one-on-one, or group sessions, to completely online content. I am launching an ‘OM your own Mental Health’ TheraApp in January, which anyone can find more information about on my website.” She adds that the business tends to veer away from traditional forms of Western medicine. 

How Do You Ensure Quality and Uniqueness in Your Offerings?

“Each course, video, and retreat is crafted with the utmost care,” Candace explains. “Our uniqueness stems from our comprehensive, self-developed practices. We also have aerial yoga classes for anyone looking to incorporate this movement into their practice.”

What Makes Your Business a Must-Visit Destination in Downtown Casper?

“We’re unique in Casper for fusing mental and holistic health,” she notes.

How Does Your Business Engage with and Contribute to the Downtown Community?

Candace shares, “We’re actively involved with other local businesses. We focus on fostering mental health and holistic partnerships within the community.” Candace mentioned she will be involved in more downtown events and partnerships soon.

Looking Ahead, What Are Your Aspirations for Your Business in Downtown Casper?

“With the launch of our online app and exclusive memberships, we’re expanding our community reach.”

What Advice Would You Give Someone Looking to Start a Business in Downtown Casper?

“Prioritize marketing and content creation,” Candace recommends. “Partnerships and finding people and other businesses you can align with are great. Make sure the content and services align with who you are as a person. It is a disservice not to align with your business and yourself if you want to have a greater impact!”

How Can People Learn More About Your Business and Stay Updated on Your Latest Offerings?

“We are present on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube,” she notes. “We also have a website with more information on our services and online community engagements.”

MacAhhDew Studio

We had a conversation with Herver Machado, owner of MacAhhDew Studio.

What’s the Story Behind Your Business’s Establishment in Downtown Casper?

“I decided to take on a new challenge after transitioning into full-time photography after the oil field,” Herver states. “I now have my studio in the Atrium Plaza with my wife Candace (Machado), and my creative passion is photography and videography.”

Could You Share a Highlight of Your Products and/or Service Offerings?

Herver shared: “We specialize in a wide range of photography and videography services, from commercial shoots to personal photography.”

How Do You Ensure Quality and Uniqueness in Your Offerings?

“I always love talking and consulting with the client,” He begins. “I ensure that everything is a very creative process.”

What Makes Your Business a Must-Visit Destination in Downtown Casper?

Herver’s creative nature is clear throughout our interview. He mentions, “My natural creativity and versatility make MacAhhDew a standout. We cater uniquely to each client’s needs.”

How Does Your Business Engage with and Contribute to the Downtown Community?

“I actively capture the essence of downtown Casper through my photography,” Herver says, “highlighting its landmarks and character.”

Looking Ahead, What Are Your Aspirations for Your Business in Downtown Casper?

Herver mentions, “I’m focusing on letting the art speak for itself. My goals are more art-oriented than business-oriented.”

What Advice Would You Give Someone Looking to Start a Business in Downtown Casper?

“Know the right people, get out there, and make a name for yourself,” he shares.

How Can People Learn More About Your Business and Stay Updated on Your Latest Offerings?

“Visit our website,” he suggests, “to explore our portfolio and learn about our services.”

ReviveWYO

We spoke with Kaylee Zimmer LMT, owner of ReviveWYO, for insights into her therapeutic practice.

What’s the Story Behind Your Business’s Establishment in Downtown Casper?

“Coming from an occupational therapy background,” Kaylee starts, “I moved to Nevada where I had an awesome career in Las Vegas, working with MaxHealth Center Chiropractic and contracting with the Raiders and the Golden Knights hockey team. I returned to Casper post-pandemic. I wanted to contribute my skills to my hometown community.” She added: “I am licensed in Nevada (licensing is not required in Wyoming) and have continued to work with high school athletes and offer various physical rehabilitation services.”

Could You Share a Highlight of Your Products and/or Service Offerings?

“I specialize in various massage therapies,” she lists, “from sports massage to cupping therapy, focusing on rehabilitation. If there is something I don’t offer, I rely on other trusted individuals in our community with various specialties.”

How Do You Ensure Quality and Uniqueness in Your Offerings?

Kaylee says, “My practice is built on compassion, care, and kindness. I am humbled and full of love! I maintain high ethical standards and clear communication with my clients.”

What Makes Your Business a Must-Visit Destination in Downtown Casper?

Kaylee shared her dedication to a personalized approach through her business organization—interaction-oriented and by appointment only: “I’m dedicated to understanding and meeting each client’s unique needs, and this is what sets ReviveWYO apart.”

How Does Your Business Engage with and Contribute to the Downtown Community?

“I actively give back to the community,” she mentions, “and collaborate with other downtown businesses for mutual support. I also have extensive friendships with both Michelle (Pink Lion Design Company) and Amanda (The Shade Tree Boutique) from years ago!” Kaylee also shared with the DDA team that she has seen the impact of “shopping small” in Casper, Wyoming: “I refer my current clients to other businesses in this area if they ever express that they want to do more in the area post-appointment.”

Looking Ahead, What Are Your Aspirations for Your Business in Downtown Casper?

“I’m content with my current path,” Kaylee reflects. “Serving others remains my core focus.”

What Advice Would You Give Someone Looking to Start a Business in Downtown Casper?

“Believe in your vision and have faith in your abilities,” she encourages. “It is worth every blessing. Faith over fear!”

How Can People Learn More About Your Business and Stay Updated on Your Latest Offerings?

“Contact me directly,” she suggests, “as I maintain a more personal, one-on-one engagement with clients.”

Donells Candies

We connected with Mike Stepp, Partner and President of Donells Candies, to delve into more of the story of this longstanding business.

What’s the Story Behind Your Business’s Establishment in Downtown Casper?

Mike recalls, “Started in 1956, with Don and Elma Stepp, Donells Candies moved downtown in February 1985. I took over the business ten years later. We’ve grown here, benefiting from the revitalized downtown area and the community’s support.” He excitably notes that the business is approaching the celebration of 68 years in Casper, Wyoming!

Could You Share a Highlight of Your Products and/or Service Offerings?

“Our store features over 150 varieties of handmade candies,” he shares. “Our Pecan Pixie is a customer favorite, alongside our espresso drinks, Italian sodas, ice cream specialties, and novelty gifts.”

How Do You Ensure Quality and Uniqueness in Your Offerings?

“Everything is crafted by hand, adhering to traditional recipes,” Mike says. “My son Ryan and I focus on quality and detail in every batch through preserving my dad’s original recipes.”

What Makes Your Business a Must-Visit Destination in Downtown Casper?

“The uniqueness of our handcrafted candies and our commitment to tradition make us a gem in downtown Casper,” he states. As we’ve seen throughout the years, Donells is a great place to stop for a snack, drink, and scoop of ice cream. Not only this, but if you’re looking for a great Casper experience, they have guides and are knowledgeable about the area’s rich history.

How Does Your Business Engage with and Contribute to the Downtown Community?

Mike mentions that the business is active in most community events and collaborations. He shares, “We also engage in various local associations and contribute to the cultural life of downtown.”

Looking Ahead, What Are Your Aspirations for Your Business in Downtown Casper?

“We plan to grow and update small things while preserving our traditional charm,” he reveals. “Online expansion and store upgrades are on the horizon.”

What Advice Would You Give Someone Looking to Start a Business in Downtown Casper?

Mike shares, “Having a presence in downtown Casper is a good time! The area offers a supportive environment for business. We have really good connections with our neighbors, and there is an advantage to working with other small businesses that support each other.”

How Can People Learn More About Your Business and Stay Updated on Your Latest Offerings?

“Stay connected with us through our Facebook, Instagram, and website for the latest updates and offerings,” he suggests.

The Shade Tree Boutique

Our discussion with Amanda Jones, owner of The Shade Tree Boutique, revealed the evolving journey of her business.

What’s the Story Behind Your Business’s Establishment in Downtown Casper?

Amanda recalls where her business began 19 years ago. “It was originally a kiosk in the Eastridge Mall in Casper, Wyoming,” she shares “In 2008, we opened N-D-Zine in the mall, which grew to another location in Rapid City. COVID-19 challenges led us to relocate to the Atrium Plaza, where we’ve expanded significantly.” She also humbly mentioned how business was upon reopening, “We had half of the store blocked off when we first began in the Atrium Plaza.” The business has since developed into something beyond their wildest dreams!

Could You Share a Highlight of Your Products and/or Service Offerings?

“We offer a diverse range of clothing, home decor, and local artisan products,” she states. “Our store showcases Wyoming’s creative talents, including branded products and local jewelry.”

How Do You Ensure Quality and Uniqueness in Your Offerings?

Amanda explains, “Our commitment to quality and customer service ensures a unique and prioritized customer shopping experience. We carefully select our products to represent our store and local businesses.” Amanda’s team is also up-to-date on all in-store products and the downtown area for new visitors looking to continue exploring.

What Makes Your Business a Must-Visit Destination in Downtown Casper?

Our blend of high-end and locally inspired products is highly favored!” Amanda says. “We’re a destination for those seeking something special and authentically Wyoming.”

How Does Your Business Engage with and Contribute to the Downtown Community?

Amanda shares, “We participate in any events happening downtown and are as active as possible in the area. We also support local families during the holidays and are involved in the Downtown Casper Business Association.”

Looking Ahead, What Are Your Aspirations for Your Business in Downtown Casper?

“My daughter and I are exploring new ideas like a mobile boutique,” Amanda reveals. “She is currently in business school and will play a significant role in our future expansions.”

What Advice Would You Give Someone Looking to Start a Business in Downtown Casper?

Amanda has always valued punctuality and accountability with her shoppers. “Stay true to your brand and connect with your customers,” she advises. “Engagement with the local community and other businesses is crucial on your journey.”

How Can People Learn More About Your Business and Stay Updated on Your Latest Offerings?

“Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates and get to know us better through our digital presence,” she suggests.

Wrapping Up on the Atrium Plaza

We feel honored to have met all the business owners listed above and to have a platform like the Downtown Development Authority to share about the individuals and stores/shops that comprise our downtown Casper landscape.   

Be sure to visit each of these local places, meet the individuals behind the story, and continue to show your love and support for all the people, places, and things that make up #MyDowntownCasper.