SPRUCE PINE – It all began when a Raleigh-based business gave them two large children’s bouncy houses after it closed.
“These things are huge,” said John Williams. “We have a T-Rex and a King Kong that are 30 feet long.”
After a little more planning, John and his wife, Whitney, have opened Wren and Wrae’s Clubhouse for adults as well as children ages 3-10 in the former Mayland Printing building at 218 Oak Ave. in downtown Spruce Pine.
The name pays homage to their “very active” daughters, whose names are Selah Wren and Israel Wrae, and who also served as the inspiration for the indoor children’s play area and fitness center.
“We need something for children to do,” John said. “As parents, we always had to take our kids to Asheville or Johnson City. We wanted to create an environment for other parents who are going through the same thing.”
The clubhouse offers inflatables, toys and other options for children while Whitney, a personal trainer, will use part of the building to host a variety of exercise classes for adults.
“People love it already,” Whitney said. “Parents who wanted to work out but couldn’t because of their kids can now watch their kids play while they are in spin class.”
John said a critical facet of the business is also ensuring the children stay active.
“Winters are rough here, and it can be pretty bleak,” he said. “We are offering a place to go to spend time with your kids where being cold is not an excuse. If you want to work out, come to spin class and bring your kids.”
Whitney said she would sell memberships to the fitness part while the children’s play area will be pay-as-you-go.
Wren and Wrae’s will be open from 8-11 a.m. for open free time with a spin class beginning at 11 a.m. The business will close from noon-3 p.m. and from 3-5 p.m. will be open free time for children to play before group exercise classes start at 5 p.m. and last until 7 p.m.
“Everything in here is movable,” Whitney said. “We can pretty much accommodate whatever we need room for.”
Wren and Wrae’s will also be available to host birthday parties and other events.