Mangelsen’s

Where Creativity Comes to the Party! 

By Janette Calabro​

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Mangelsen’s might be advertised as a party supply store, but the family-owned craft and hobby store is so much more. Just ask co-owner Marla Mangelsen, the granddaughter of founders Harold and Berenice Mangelsen. When Mangelsen’s opened their doors in 1961, the store stocked products to celebrate the holidays and special events, and they jammed their space with endless hobby ideas, craft supplies, and wow products in every aisle. Today, you can sign up for workshops and classes like crochet, quilting, sewing, and scrapbooking. 

 

“Make it a Mangelsen’s day!” says Marla. “Grab a bite next door at the Farmhouse Café and Bakery and then come over to Mangelsen’s and explore 36,000 square feet of FUN! Enjoy a free bag of freshly popped popcorn while you shop.”

 

Marla runs the store with her dad, David M., and her brothers, Matt and David A. She laughs when her dad jokes that the second bag of popcorn is twice as free! In fact, they have so much fun together that Marla says she still looks forward to “playing store” alongside her dad and brothers. 

 

The store’s slogan is “Family Run and Selling Fun Since 1961,” and you can feel the fun the moment you walk through the door. The Mangelsen’s team doesn’t hesitate to bond with families who visit. It’s not unusual to find big displays and new products, as well as unique items you wouldn’t find elsewhere. 

 

“You can walk in without a specific project in mind and leave with a whole new hobby,” Marla says. “Maybe you’ll even sign up for a class in our Creative Corner. We carry an incredible variety of supplies, project kits, and creative tools for all skill levels, whether you’re an experienced crafter or someone looking to try something new.”

 

The Mangelsen’s store really does seem to carry a bit of everything. Spring and summer visitors to the store are often surprised to discover the year-round Christmas Traditions Shop filled with brightly lit Christmas trees. You’ll find seasonal décor, a working train display, and an overall vibe of delight. The details matter, Marla notes. She’s pleased to offer table settings, candles, centerpieces, and other elegant partyware that makes a gathering pop. 

 

“We wanted to create an experience where our customers can enjoy the sights, sounds, and joy of the Christmas season any time of year. At Mangelsen’s, we carry Caspari, which is a beautiful line of tableware, napkins, party crackers, and entertaining accessories that really elevate a table and bring a polished, festive touch to any celebration. Adding thoughtful details like personalized place settings, coordinating colors, or a beautiful centerpiece can transform an ordinary gathering into something truly memorable.” 

 

Marla doesn’t think of herself as a crafter, but when she took a junk journal class in the Creative Corner, the instructor was surprised at how well she crafted her new journal. Now, it’s her new hobby! If you’re curious about what junk journaling is, check out the events calendar online or ask in the scrapbook department at Mangelsen’s. “They have everything to get the creative juices flowing, like whimsical paper, embellishments, stickers, albums, and every theme you can imagine,” Marla says. “Grab a glue stick and make your vision come to life!”

 

The whole store is filled with hidden gems. There’s even a gourmet food and housewares section to get lost in. Prepare to find incredible snacks, savory seasonings, and gadgets you don’t know you need until you see them. 

 

“I’d love to host a ladies’ night out in the Creative Corner Classroom,” Marla muses. “Everyone could pick a holiday craft to make, or we could switch it up with a fun game night. We’d have delicious desserts and snacks catered from the Farmhouse Café right next door, fun holiday music to set the mood, and of course, plenty of time to relax, create, and enjoy each other’s company.” Sounds like a great idea to me!

 

Marla thinks that customers keep coming back to Mangelsen’s because of the feeling they get when they walk through the doors, smell that fresh popcorn, and see all the possibilities. “It’s an experience!” She encourages all of us to come in for a friendly smile and a handshake (and, of course, the popcorn). 

 

“There’s something special about making something with your own hands, whether it’s a project for yourself or a homemade gift,” Marla concludes. “It’s so easy today to shop online and let the keyboard do the work, but crafting gives you time to slow down, get into a good mental space, and simply create.”

 

You can visit Mangelsen’s seven days a week at 3457 South 84th Street, in Omaha. For more information, call 402-391-6225 or check them out online at mangelsens.com. 

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